UMG has acquired RS Group’s music catalog, the second-largest in Thailand. With more than 10k recorded works and 6k copyright ownerships, publishing rights and licenses dating from 1981-2022, the trove represents the output of more than 960 artists. The acquisition will form the core of a new strategic partnership between the two entities.
The pact—70% UMG ownership, 30% RS Group—will provide UMG with increased scale in the Thai music market, allowing it to become the second-biggest player therein. Thailand’s recorded music sector’s revenue grew by 20% in 2022 to surpass $100m for the first time, according to IFPI’s 2022 Global Music Report.
As part of the deal, UMG will become RS Group’s exclusive music service partner for new releases and music repertoire worldwide. It will also receive exclusive rights of first refusal and matching rights to acquire new releases and repertoire.
Notable Thai artists included in the catalog are Dan-Beam, James Ruangsak Loychusak, Parn Thanaporn Wagprayoon, Stone Metal Fire, Ble Patumrach, Lydia Sarunrat Deane, Thanapol Intharit and Four-Mod Kamikaze.
“Thailand has huge untapped potential, with consumers who desire ever more quality music,” said Universal Music CEO Southeast Asia & SVP of Asia Calvin Wong (in leather).“Today’s announcement will provide UMG with the scale to make a meaningful impact within the Thai music ecosystem and to benefit from its continued growth.”
RS Public Company Limited CESO Surachai Chetchotisak noted that the partnership “will also play a significant role in driving Thai soft power and mark the first stepping stone for future projects and businesses.”
