Warner Music Central Europe has announced the official launch of Warner Records Germany.
Operating out of Berlin, the label is described as "a bold statement of intent" that will bridge "the uncompromising excellence of its legendary US heritage with the raw, cultural heart of the German market".
Industry executive Lea Londa will lead the label as director, reporting to Jean-Sebastien Permal, SVP of A&R for Central Europe and EMEA.
"Warner Records has always been a label built around iconic, visionary artists," said Aaron Bay-Schuck, CEO & co-chairman, Warner Records, and Tom Corson, COO & co-chairman, Warner Records & COO, WMG. "Launching Warner Records Germany reinforces our global commitment to championing creative talent, empowering the German team to discover, nurture, and elevate the next generation of artists both in Germany and on the world stage."
Londa has spent more than a decade at WM Central Europe, rising through the ranks from media manager through to MD, working with global superstars such as Coldplay, Enya, Ed Sheeran and Linkin Park.
Launching Warner Records Germany is a defining step in our growth, and Lea was the clear choice to lead it
Jean-Sebastien Permal, Warner Music Central Europe & EMEA
Londa also brings a track record with domestic talent. She orchestrated the campaign behind Udo Lindenberg x Apache 207’s Komet – the longest running No.1 German single in history – and has also enjoyed success with acts such as Provinz, Robin Schulz and MilleniumKid.
The Warner Records Germany roster includes "lighthouse artists" Udo Lindenberg, Provinz, Yasola and LINA.
"Launching Warner Records Germany is a defining step in our growth, and Lea was the clear choice to lead it," said Permal. "She has spent her career earning the trust of artists, and she brings a sharp point of view about what a modern frontline label should give them. Under her leadership from Berlin, Warner Records Germany will become a genuine home for artists at every stage of their careers.”
Niels Walboomers, president, Warner Music Central Europe, said: “Bringing the legendary Warner Records brand to Germany underscores our commitment to the region. We are building an elite, modern label model that puts artists first and drives domestic culture forward. I’m thrilled to support Lea and Seb as they lead this charge from the heart of Berlin."
Londa added: "I am grateful to both Niels and Seb for their trust in my vision to lead this new chapter. I am excited to shape this future with the artists I have worked closely with for years, and to welcome new talent into a true musical home. Together with the team, we will build a creative culture that makes Warner Records Germany a successful force in the market.”
