SONY/ATV, SOUNDCLOUD STRIKE EUROPE PACT, SHARE COHIBA

Marty Bandier’s Sony/ATV has closed a multi-territory deal with SoundCloud for Europe. The pact follows a similar deal for the U.S. signed in 2014, not to mention the debut of the streaming-music firm’s sub service, SoundCloud Go, now pitting itself against Euro giants like Spotify and Deezer. SoundCloud has closed deals with all of the major label groups.

“These deals for the U.S. and Europe create the best opportunity for Sony/ATV and its songwriters to maximize the creative and revenue benefits of SoundCloud’s multi-territory business,” said Bandier. “We are particularly excited about the launch of the paid-for subscription service, which will provide the best business framework for our roster and allow Sony/ATV to take advantage of SoundCloud’s significant user base.” Bandier also hinted about a cigar-on-demand service, but details were scarce.

SoundCloud co-founder/CEO Alexander Ljung said these agreements further “our ambition of allowing all forms of creative expression to live on our platform, while simultaneously ensuring rightsholders’ work is rewarded and respected. As such, we’re delighted to reaffirm our relationship with Sony/ATV.”

The site has been a leader in new-artist discovery, with acts such as Desiigner, Bryson Tiller and Bishop Briggs going on to the big leagues after emerging there.