Gurrumul signs European record deal

18 May 2009 by Soulshine News

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Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu

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Gurrumul

The Womadelaide Files (Part 2)

After an intense decision making process involving two extremely keen candidates seeking the European rights to the album “Gurrumul” , Skinnyfish Music is pleased to announce a European deal was signed in London.

Yunupingu swiftly captivated the hearts of Australian’s with his Top 3 Platinum debut album “Gurrumul” and is now positioned to do the same on the international realm.

In what could be seen as a unique business model for the industry, a joint venture deal was negotiated, a deal that will pay off best for the artist whilst simultaneously allowing Skinnyfish Music to maintain control of Gurrumul’s career abroad.

“Although an attractive offer was made by a major label , and the idea of signing with a major label has a seductive quality we decided to partner up with Dramatico for a number of reasons”, says Mark T. Grose. Dramatico, a highly regarded UK based independent record label is known for its astute ability to break new acts as demonstrated by the impressive success of Katie Melua who, under their roof, has sold millions of albums in Europe. The label is also home to Carla Bruni and Marianne Faithful.

“The strength of the album in Australia and its irresistible quality that sets it apart from other Australian releases has given us the ability to stand our ground and insist on a business model based on the principals of a partnership”, says Grose. This deal allows Skinnyfish Music to maintain control in the career and the album”.

“The main concern was for Gurrumul”, says his friend and collaborator Michael Hohnen. “We needed to be certain that his career was conscientiously crafted and this deal allows us to play an instrumental role in that. We have creative control”, continues Hohnen.

"We are excited to be working with Gurrumul who we believe is an extremely rare and talented artist with a beautiful record. We are looking forward to introducing the whole of Europe to him and his unique music." Andrew Bowles MD Dramatico

With the details finalised the company is now ready to enter into the final stages of negotiation on a deal for Japan. “We’ve cut our teeth working this deal out, so we can apply it across the board. Once Japan is signed we will look into the USA where expressions of interest are strong.”

The European deal was officially signed at 3.00pm on Friday 8th of May at Australia House in London.

Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu plays The Palais in Melbourne on May 23. The Melbourne performance will conclude a concert tour that features three dates in the UK; the divine Union Chapel on May 13th, May 14th at the Great Escape and May 15th in Brighton.

The stunning debut album Gurrumul has now sold over 100,000 copies, received 17 key industry awards and is 2008’s fifth highest selling album in Australia.