Vivendi

Rob Wells, President Global Digital Business, Universal Music Group
(ASDR 2010)

Digital: A lever for local talent

« Our business at Universal Music Group – and our success – depends on the extraordinary talent of our artists worldwide. After all, today’s music fans have access digitally to artists and repertoire from everywhere – and it’s clear they want to continue to be offered this unique global menu. We work hard to serve their appetite. New technology has given us a unique opportunity to break down geographic barriers as easily as artists break down – and cross – stylistic barriers. This is particularly true in the less advantaged countries, where young people need to be recognized as actors of their own cultural, artistic history, and to be heard beyond their borders. We can help to promote local talent on the international scene in small, practical ways through digital delivery, and we do.
We can also continue to nurture an environment in which everyone who works for UMG sees value in making the musical world a smaller place – so to speak – and in helping artists to reach audiences far away.»