Daniel Glass' Glassnote is exiting the major-label system and launching a partnership with Kobalt Music. The deal is a major realignment in the indie universe, with Glassnote set to utilize Kobalt's AWAL division heavily. Since its launch in 2007, Glassnote has cultivated such acts as Mumford & Sons, Childish Gambino, Phoenix, CHVRCHES, The Strumbellas and Jade Bird, and has earned an array of plaudits as "best indie label" from industry orgs and publications.

AWAL, for its part, has worked with artists like Rex Orange County, Lauv, Deadmau5, Freya Ridings and The Wombats, to name but a few. The Kobalt-AWAL system's marketing, promotion, distribution and data analytics capabilities have been highly touted.

“It is truly a landmark day in the music industry and for the future of Glassnote as this progressive alliance and relationship with Kobalt becomes a reality,” said Glass. “For our artists, it’s the same team and family they have always been a part of, with exciting new additions from a company on the cutting edge of music’s future.”

“We’re writing an important new chapter in the history of the music industry - proving together that it’s possible to break global superstars outside the old system,” said Kobalt mastermind Willard Ahdritz. “When we looked at the current landscape of relevant independent labels, Glassnote stood out as an ideal partner, as we both put talent at the center of our business. I’m looking forward to working with Daniel, a real music man, and the Glassnote team.”

AWAL CEO Lonny Olinick added, “After a highly successful year with four top 10 UK records, landing three artists on the U.S. top 50 radio chart, and pushing Lauv over a 1.5 billion streams globally, we couldn’t be more excited to build on that success with Glassnote. This partnership is a testament to our achievements and Glassnote recognizes our global approach and operational ability. With our commitment to breaking and growing artist careers, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together in the future.”

Commenting on the deal, Kobalt Music President and Chief Revenue Officer, Laurent Hubert noted, “Daniel has created one of the greatest independent labels in the world. This strategic partnership pairs two artist-first companies that will open a door for a whole new wave of global artists.”

Daniel then excused himself to run a quick 27 miles.