BMG Chrysalis US has reached a broad agreement with legendary NYC-based Strictly Rhythm, the label celebrated for its high quality dance music. Under the arrangement, BMG will acquire the masters catalog of Strictly Rhythm and will administer the music publishing rights worldwide.
The catalog includes crossover hits such as Reel 2 Real's 'I Like To Move It,' (featured as the theme song in the Madagascar films) Ultra Naté's 'Free,' Wamdue Project's 'King Of My Castle' (which reached Number One on the UK Singles Chart), Wink's 'Higher State Of Consciousness,' and Planet Soul's 'Set U Free' (which reached Gold status in the US).
Established in 1989 by businessman Mark Finkelstein and A&R Gladys Pizarro, the independent label gained a following with club DJs and fans and has remained a steady powerhouse for releasing dance music by artists including Erick Morillo, Todd Terry, Louie Vega, Kenny Dope, Armand Van Helden, DJ Pierre, Roger Sanchez, Josh Wink, Ultra Naté and Barbara Tucker.
Mark Finkelstein commented: "I couldn't be more pleased that Strictly Rhythm's catalog has found a new home with the passionate staff at BMG who will bring new opportunities to our dance classics, as well as creative collaborations for the future producers and artists within our collective families."
Richard Blackstone, Executive Vice President, Creative & Business Development at BMG Northern American, said, "We are thrilled to represent this wonderful collection of music, and inspired by what the future partnership will bring. We truly understand the blood, sweat, and tears that went into growing an independent business like this. We agree with their simple recipe for success: trust talent, respect your clients and partners, and pay on time."
