UMG has forged what’s described as a strategic alliance with Haim Saban’s Saban Music Group. The partnership kicks off on Friday (1/10) with the release of the single “Further Up” from Static & Ben El f/Pitbull.

SMG will be distributed in the U.S. by Caroline, an arm of Capitol Music Group, and will work in tandem with Caroline International and UMG’s Santa Monica-based central services team ex-U.S.

“Haim has a proven track record of creating world-class entertainment,” said UNI ruler Sir Lucian Grainge. “We’re looking forward to working with his team at Saban Music to bring groundbreaking new artists and music to fans around the globe.”

“Sir Lucian has built the #1 music company in the world with an unprecedented streak of artist development,” Saban offered. “There is no better home for our artists and their music.”

Headed by veteran exec Gustavo Lopez, SMG has been signing acts and developing content since its launch announcement in July 2019. Saban’s $500 million commitment to the company includes the future acquisition of recording, publishing and management entities.

“It’s exciting to once again work with UMG, my home for more than 20 years,” said Lopez. “We’re looking forward to working with Sir Lucian’s record-breaking and industry-leading teams.”