Concord announced that it has acquired U.K.-based independent record label Ninja Tune Records, a move that significantly expands the company’s presence in the United Kingdom and Europe while adding one of the world’s most respected indie labels to its portfolio.
The Nashville-based music company said Ninja Tune will continue operating under its existing leadership team and maintain its current offices in both the United Kingdom and the United States. The transaction also includes Ninja Tune’s publishing arm, Just Isn’t Music, along with its roster of songwriters, composers, and producers.
Founded in 1990 by musicians Matt Black and Jonathan More, known collectively as Coldcut, Ninja Tune has spent more than three decades establishing itself as a leading force in independent music. The label has released music from a wide range of influential artists including Bonobo, Bicep, Diplo, Floating Points, Run The Jewels, ODESZA, Peggy Gou, Young Fathers, and Little Dragon, among many others.
Concord said the acquisition strengthens its label group by expanding its international footprint and providing Ninja Tune with additional global resources to support its artists and continued growth.
Under the terms of the deal, Ninja Tune will retain its current leadership structure, including Marie Clausen, Dawn Dobson, Martin Dobson, Adrian Kemp, Tess Kendall, Peter Quicke, and Samantha Sissons. The label will continue to operate independently within Concord’s broader label group structure.
The acquisition also brings Ninja Tune’s publishing business, Just Isn’t Music, into Concord’s portfolio. The publishing catalog includes the majority of songs released by the label as well as works from artists such as The Prodigy, Soulwax, and Nova Twins.
Advisors on the transaction included KPMG Tax and Via Artis Advisors on behalf of Concord, while Ninja Tune was advised by Jeremy Tracey and Mando Chastouki of Casini Corporate Finance, along with Ed Waldron and Bryce Bartlett of Taylor Wessing.
KEY QUOTES
“Over three decades, the team at Ninja Tune has built a label dedicated to independent artistry. Their amazing roster, and the team’s ambition to continue to grow Ninja Tune, seamlessly align with our vision for Concord’s expanding frontline reach. These attributes, alongside the opportunity to greatly expand Concord’s UK and European operations, made this acquisition an obvious strategic fit. I am eager to see our collective vision take form.”
Bob Valentine, CEO, Concord
“I am beyond excited to welcome Ninja Tune and their stellar roster of artists to Concord. With their team on board, we are even better situated today to deliver on behalf of independent artists everywhere – increasing their reach and helping them finding new audiences with whom their music resonates, no matter where in the world that audience exists. Thank you to Marie, Dawn, Martin, Adrian, Tess, Peter, and Samantha, and the entire team for trusting Concord to carry on the Ninja Tune legacy.”
Tom Becci, CEO, Concord Label Group
“It is an artist’s prerogative and responsibility to be dissatisfied with what one already knows. To, with sadness, kiss it goodbye and joyfully begin fishing again. Partnering with Concord ensures the culture and ethos that make the label so unique remain, whilst bringing mad Ninja energy and innovation forward.”
Matt Black And Jon More (Coldcut), Founders Of Ninja Tune
