'We want to be in the Top 1, 2 or 3 of labels artists want to sign to': Mark Mitchell's Parlophone's evolution

Mark Mitchell & Jack Melhuish

The new top team at Parlophone have revealed ambitious plans to take the label back to the top.

The Warner-owned label has a storied history, having been home to acts from The Beatles to Blur and Coldplay to Tinie Tempah. Now, with a new co-president and marketing director at the helm, in the shape of Mark Mitchell and Jack Melhuish, the label is looking for fresh successes to add to its glorious past.

“I’m very aware of the incredible heritage and history of Parlophone,” said Mitchell, speaking exclusively in the new print edition of Music Week. “That’s very much in my DNA; I’ve always been interested in leftfield artists who have created huge success.”

Such artists were the backbone of Parlophone’s glory days, and Mitchell is determined to make them a key A&R destination again.

“I want Parlophone to be in the Top 1, 2 or 3 of labels that artists want to sign to,” said Mitchell. “I want artists to look at Parlophone and think it’s a home for genuine creativity, authenticity and not doing things the normal way. It’s as simple as that.”

Meanwhile, incoming director of marketing, strategy & partnerships Melhuish also stressed the importance of making the label appeal to the next generation of artists.

“I want our artists to understand our value and be advocates for us as a label,” said Melhuish. “With the new breed of artists coming through, this world can be alien to them and it’s important that we feel like a genuine home for our artists. They need to enjoy coming here and see us as collaborative partners.”

For the full, exclusive story – including the only interviews with Mitchell and Melhuish – see this week’s print edition of Music Week or click here. To subscribe and never miss a vital music biz story, click here.



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