Metallica Create Own Independent Record Label

Metallica have bought their master recordings from former record label Warner, and will administer their own catalogue through their new firm Blackened Records. The thrash giants renegotiated their deal in 1994, which has allowed them to take ownership of all their original recordings now all obligations have been met.

They’d previously said upcoming live DVD Quebec Magnetic – a new clip from which can be viewed below – would be their first own-label release, but hadn’t confirmed the company’s name nor their other plans.

Thanking Warners for “28 years of a fantastic relationship,” Metallica say: “We like to make it a point here not to bore you with the not-so-exciting business aspects of making and sharing music, but we’re so psyched about our new adventure that we just had to tell you about it as we officially launch our very own record label, Blackened Recordings.

“Some of you are aware that in 1994 we renegotiated our contract with the Warner Music Group, which resulted in a joint venture with our record company for releasing all of our recordings, including long form videos.

“Per that agreement, as of today we have taken ownership of all of our master recordings and Blackened Recordings will be the home of all of our current albums and videos along with all future releases including Quebec Magnetic.”

Metallica had previously said their independent status allowed them to set “fan friendly price” for the live package. Now they say they’ll apply that thinking to whatever they do in the future.

“It’s always been about us taking control of all things ‘Tallica to give you 110% on every single level every single time,” the band say. “Forming Blackened Recordings is the ultimate in independence, putting us in the driver’s seat of our own creative destiny.

“We’re looking forward to making more music and getting it all out to you in our own unique way.”

The band are believed to be preparing material for a new studio album, which could be produced by Rick Rubin.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

%d bloggers like this: