Warner Music Group Benelux has acquired Amsterdam-based independent label Cloud 9 Recordings.
The acquisition is led by Niels Walboomers (President of WMG Benelux Recording Music and Publishing), and Cloud 9 co-founder Raymond van Vliet will continue to serve as President of Cloud 9 Recordings.
Cloud 9 is a well-known independent label in the Netherlands, representing artists including Claude, Jaap Reesema, Kris KrossAmsterdam, Snelle and Turfy Gang, and owns Antoon’s catalog.
The news comes five months after Armada Music’s BEAT Music Fund acquired Cloud 9’s publishing arm.
In addition to the acquisition of Cloud 9, Warner Chappell Music Benelux will enter into an exclusive global management agreement with Blue Skies Publishing, representing songwriters including Claude, Davina Michelle, Edwin van Hoevelaak, Flemming, Frank van Etten, John Dirne, La Fuente and other skies.
Blue Skies represents approximately 100 songwriters and has a catalog of more than 100 Top 40 hits from groups such as Dolly Dots, Luv’ and Willeke Alberti. Blue Skies Publishing will continue to manage the entire creative process with its existing team.
The Cloud 9 team will relocate to Musichaven Amsterdam, Warner Music Benelux’s creative hub in Huthavens, Amsterdam.
In addition, the Blue Skies Publishing office in the Dutch town of Laren will serve as a satellite office for Cloud 9.
“Cloud 9 has made a significant impact on the Dutch music industry with its versatility and expertise.”
Niels Walboomers, WMG Benelux
Niels Walboomers, President of Recorded Music and Publishing at WMG Benelux, said: “We are delighted to welcome Raymond and the Cloud 9 team.
“Cloud 9 has had a major impact on the Dutch music industry with its versatility and expertise.
“Over the past five years, they have collaborated with five different artists and achieved eight number one singles on the Dutch Top 40 charts. With the expertise of our talented local team and Warner Music’s global network, we will Strengthen Cloud 9’s catalog and create new opportunities and inspiring collaborations for everyone.
“On November 1, Cloud 9 Music will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Selling this incredible company on the eve of this milestone is a proud moment.
Raymond Van Fleet, Cloud 9 recording
Raymond van Vliet, President of Cloud 9 Recordings, added: “On November 1, Cloud 9 Music will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Selling this incredible company on the eve of this milestone is a proud moment.
“I will continue to lead Cloud 9 over the next few years, ensuring that my team, with the help of Warner Music’s expertise, continues to represent our artist lineup. We will take the next steps in artists’ careers and continue to expand Cloud 9 Music.
“The combination of Blue Skies Publishing’s publishing expertise and Cloud 9 Music’s record label gave the song a rock-solid foundation. Because at the end of the day, it all starts with a great song.global music business
