The Weeknd Signs Massive Long-Term Deal With Universal Music Group
It’s no secret that The Weeknd is a megastar, and it seems like he’s only getting bigger with each passing year. The Toronto crooner has achieved a lot throughout his 13-year career with the help of his label, Republic Records, and their partnership is only set to continue in the years to come.
On Thursday (April 28), Universal Music Group — the home of Republic Records — announced a long-term global partnership deal with The Weeknd. According to a press release, the new deal extends the strong relationship between the two and will see UMG manage the 32-year-old singer’s entire music catalog, as well as merchandise and audiovisual projects.
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UMG’s leading brand-management and merchandise company, Bravado, will also be assisting The Weeknd in expanding and developing global merchandising, branding, ecommerce and retail licensing opportunities for future projects and releases.
“Over the past decade, we have been honored to work so closely with Abel who has quickly become one of music’s most creative and important artists—a once-in-a-generation talent,” said Sir Lucian Grange, the chairman and CEO of UMG.
“With Sal and the XO team as our incredible partners, we’ve developed a deep trust and respect that has enabled us to successfully execute Abel’s brilliant vision. I am delighted that we are now able to expand this special relationship, welcome this world-class songwriter to UMPG, and evolve this creative partnership to new and exciting levels.”
Wassim ‘SAL’ Slaiby, founder and CEO of SALXCO and XO Records, added, “Over a decade together says it all. Our relationship is built on trust, success, and family values. I am proud and excited to be beside Sir Lucian, Monte, Avery, Jody and the rest of the Universal family building our next decade together.”
The deal comes after The Weeknd notched another successful album with Dawn FM. The project debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and broke their Global 200 chart record, with 24 songs charting in the project’s first week. That milestone made The Weeknd the only solo male artist to have that many songs chart at one time.