Believe Digital has opened a Norwegian office in partnership with local independent music company, Indie Distribution.
Following a two-year launch development phase led by Norwegian artist manager and Believe’s representative in Norway Eivind Brydøy, the partnership has now been formally launched.
The move now sees Believe operating over 30 offices across the globe with over 300 international digital music industry experts making up its staff base.
Last year, Believe took on $60m investment in a round led by heavy-duty Spotify backer Technology Crossover Ventures (TCV).
The news came shortly after it fully acquired US-based rival Tunecore.
Since its inception in 2005, Indie Distribution has been one of the key independent companies in Norway, having distributed labels like [PIAS], Nuclear Blast, Century Media, Rough Trade, SPV, Roadrunner and many more.
In addition to Indie Distribution, the team behind the company also run three of the notable record companies in Norway: Indie Recordings, Voices of Wonder and Name Music.
“This is another step towards increasing our full international reach for our global distribution and label services divisions.”
Lee Morrison, Believe Digital
The new partnership sees Believe Digital taking over the Norwegian representation for their catalogue, significantly strengthening Believe’s Norwegian market share.
Erlend Gjerde, Managing Director at Indie Distribution and Country Manager of Believe Digital Norway, explained: “We’re excited to announce our new role for Believe Digital. Believe is probably the only player in the digital music industry that manages to offer the flexibility and dynamics of an independent, whilst coupled with the power which is usually only enjoyed by the majors.
“This truly marks the start of a new era for us, entering into the digital music distribution market by joining one of the very best multinational teams out there.”
Gjerde continues: “Our setup is significantly strengthened with this partnership, and not just for our domestically distributed clients; we really look forward to working with Believe globally to help us develop our labels internationally. We cannot wait to get started.”
Lee Morrison, General Manager UK & SVP Rights Management Believe Group says of the move: “The expansion in Norway is another step towards increasing our full international reach for our global distribution and label services divisions. We are looking forward to working with Indie Distribution and their superb catalogue, both on a local and global basis”.Music Business Worldwide
