MTVN, UMG Partner Up
By Staff -- Multichannel News, 9/18/2006
New York— Viacom Inc.’s MTV Networks will create and distribute full-length music videos and original video programming for mobile devices from Universal Music Group’s cache of artists under terms of an agreement between the record company and MTVN’s Music Group, announced Wednesday.
The two parties said the pact marks “the first time such a comprehensive deal has been made between a major media company and music company that covers extensive music-related programming across U.S. wireless carriers and mobile devices aimed at consumers.”
Among the top artists signed to various Universal Music Group labels are Fergie, Nelly Furtado, Elton John, The Killers, U2, Jay Z, Ludacris, Don Omar, Bon Jovi, Juanes, George Strait, Shania Twain, Sugarland and Hinder.
“Our diverse MTV, VH1, CMT and Logo audiences all share two things in common — a passion for music and a passion for mobile,” MTVN vice president of wireless strategy and operations Greg Clayman said in a prepared statement.
“Through this arrangement, we’ll be able to create compelling music programming around Universal Music Group’s extensive catalog of popular artists who resonate with our audiences, Clayman added.”
