Ninja Tune Acquired by Concord: A New Era for an Indie Music Pioneer

In a significant shift within the indie music landscape, the venerated London-based electronic label Ninja Tune has been acquired by Concord, with the announcement made on March 12, 2023. This partnership not only marks a new chapter for Ninja Tune but also enhances Concord Label Group’s presence in the UK and European music markets.

Ninja Tune: A Legacy in Electronic Music

Founded in 1990 by Matt Black and Jonathan More—who also performed as the influential electronic duo Coldcut—Ninja Tune has long been a staple in the electronic and indie dance music communities. Known for its eclectic roster and innovative sound, the label has cultivated a reputation as one of the most respected entities in independent music. Artists like Bonobo, Amon Tobin, and Run The Jewels have graced its roster, making it a go-to destination for both experimental and mainstream electronic music.

The Concord Acquisition

With the acquisition by Concord, Ninja Tune will continue to operate under its own brand, but it will now benefit from Concord’s extensive resources and services. This includes advanced publishing capabilities and indie distribution avenues, particularly following Concord’s recent acquisition of the distribution platform Stem. As Concord strengthens its foothold in the UK and Europe, Ninja Tune stands to gain enhanced support while maintaining its unique operational ethos.

Leadership Continuity

The Ninja Tune team will remain intact, ensuring continuity in its vision and approach. Key figures such as Marie Clausen, North America managing director based in Los Angeles; CFO Dawn Dobson; and COO Martin Dobson will continue to guide the label from its offices in both the UK and the US. Their collective expertise will play a crucial role in navigating the evolving landscape of music distribution and artist development.

The Publishing Arm: Just Isn’t Music

An integral part of the deal is the inclusion of Ninja Tune’s publishing arm, Just Isn’t Music. This entity is responsible for the catalog that encompasses most of Ninja Tune’s recorded works and features a variety of renowned artists including The Prodigy and Soulwax. This acquisition will enhance Concord’s publishing portfolio, allowing for greater artist representation and opportunities for songwriters and producers within the Ninja Tune network.

Embracing Change with Optimism

In a joint statement, founders Black and More expressed their excitement about the acquisition, highlighting the necessity for artists to continuously evolve and adapt. They emphasized that partnering with Concord will allow Ninja Tune to more effectively retain its unique culture and energy while pushing boundaries in music innovation. This forward-thinking mindset aligns perfectly with Concord’s mission to amplify independent artists and broaden their reach.

Significant Artist Roster

Ninja Tune boasts an impressive lineup of artists that reflects the label’s commitment to diversity and creativity. Over the years, it has collaborated with influential names including Peggy Gou, Flying Lotus, and Hiatus Kaiyote. The synergy with Concord will provide these artists with enhanced opportunities to connect with global audiences and create innovative music without losing their individual artistic identities.

The Bigger Picture with Concord

Concord, which supports over 125,000 artists and maintains a catalog of approximately 1.3 million songs, is strategically positioning itself as a major player in the independent music scene. The acquisition of Ninja Tune not only expands the label group’s capabilities but also showcases its commitment to nurturing creative talent. Tom Becci, CEO of Concord Label Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that it strengthens their mission to advocate for independent artists globally.

The Path Forward

As Ninja Tune merges into the Concord family, the indie music scene awaits eagerly to see how this partnership unfolds. With its commitment to artistic integrity and innovative music, Ninja Tune is poised to thrive in this new environment, enhancing its legacy while embracing exciting opportunities for growth and collaboration. As the music industry continues to evolve, both Ninja Tune and Concord are set to play vital roles in shaping its future.