Manchester, UK-based music company NQ has entered into a partnership with Columbia Records UK and a global distribution agreement with The Orchard.
According to the announcement, the partnership with NQ will give Columbia Records UK access to emerging Northern talent through NQ’s network in the region.
The artists brought forward will then receive the support of Columbia Records UK in producing, recording, and marketing their music.
Meanwhile, according to the announcement, NQ artists will also gain access to The Orchard’s suite of services and global network.
NQ was established in 2017 by founder and CEO Michael Adex. The company champions talent from the North of England.
With the new collaboration, NQ’s multi-platinum-selling management client Aitch has signed an exclusive recording partnership with NQ “powered by The Orchard”.
He is expected to release new music early this year.
NQ’s roster across records, publishing and management includes the likes of Aitch, South London artist Blanco, Birmingham rapper MIST, Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling production duo WhyJay & LiTek (WhyTek).
The company recently signed East London rapper Morrisson to its recording roster.
“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.”
Michael Adex, NQ
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.”
“Adex’s status as a Manchester music scene powerhouse gives us further access to northern talent via his broad network across the UK.”
Dipesh Parmar, Columbia Records UK
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.”
“We look forward to working with Adex and the NQ team and bringing their talent-rich legacy to global audiences.”
Ian Dutt, The Orchard UK
Ian Dutt, President of The Orchard UK, said: “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.”
Music Business Worldwide