Global talent and entertainment company NQ has announced a new partnership with Columbia Records UK and a global distribution agreement with The Orchard.
The partnership will give Columbia Records UK access to emerging northern talent through NQ’s extensive network in the region. The artists brought forward will then receive the support of Columbia in producing, recording, and marketing their music. NQ artists will gain access to The Orchard’s full suite of services and global network.
The venture with Columbia Records UK marks a new chapter for Manchester-based NQ, adding to a roster for NQ’s records, publishing and management, which currently boasts the likes of Aitch, South London artist Blanco, Birmingham rapper MIST, Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling production duo WhyJay & LiTek (WhyTek), and recently signed East London rapper Morrisson to their recording roster.
With the new collaboration, NQ’s multi-platinum selling artist Aitch has signed an exclusive recording partnership with NQ powered by The Orchard. He is expected to release new music early this year.
NQ showcases the brightest emerging talent from the North of England, with the aim of taking them to the world stage, having nurtured some significant rises along the way.
Michael Adex, founder and CEO of NQ, said: “It feels like a no-brainer, and a great way to open our artists to international markets via The Orchard’s and Columbia Records UK’s global distribution channels while NQ Records continues to add value with a bespoke, artist-centric approach on the frontlines. As game changers in the industry today, this partnership demonstrates our combined commitment to shaking up the music industry and championing amazing talent both in the North and South. We are also excited to work with Columbia UK on this partnership, it’s an iconic label with a fantastic team at the forefront of some of the most culturally relevant record campaigns today.”
Dipesh Parmar, president of Columbia Records UK, added: “Adex’s status as a Manchester music scene powerhouse gives us further access to northern talent via his broad network across the UK. Myself, Amy and the Columbia team are delighted to be partnering with NQ, we share the same vision in nurturing and developing artists early, and we’re excited for what the new venture will bring.”
Ian Dutt, president of The Orchard UK, commented: “NQ’s artist-first approach directly aligns with The Orchard’s M.O. We are a company committed to helping artists and labels attain their creative vision via the best-in-class service offering, cutting edge technology, and unparalleled global network offered by The Orchard. We look forward to working with Adex and the NQ team and bringing their talent-rich legacy to global audiences.”