Music Industry Moves: UMG, Kevin ‘Chief’ Zaruk and Simon Tikhman Launch The Core Records; Stem Raises $250 Million for Artist Advances

variety.com:

Thania Garcia Universal Music Group (UMG) has partnered with Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Simon Tikhman, co-founders of a leading entertainment and talent management company Core Entertainment (TCE), to launch The Core Records.

The new global label venture will sign and develop new artists, working hand-in-hand with UMG’s network. Tikhman and Zaruk founded TCE with Live Nation in 2019 as an independent entertainment collective that specializes in talent management, business and strategic partnerships, and advancements in the music, technology, and lifestyle industries.

Additionally, TCE develops film and television projects and works with professional athletes. The Core roster currently boasts Bailey Zimmerman, Nickelback, Nate Smith, Austin Shawn and the pop band Valley, among others. “We love building upon our entrepreneurial culture, and are so pleased to welcome Chief and Simon who have a reputation for identifying some of the industry’s most promising artists,” said Sir Lucan Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG. “We look forward to helping them grow their roster and drive global success for their artists.” “Our goal has always been to support artists on a global scale by creating new creative and commercial paths,” commented Tikhman. “We’d like to thank Sir Lucian for believing in our vision and for his commitment to developing and supporting artists and entrepreneurs.” Added Zaruk, “We’re excited for this next evolution in The Core and honored to work with Sir Lucian and the team at UMG to help us continue to guide artists to develop their careers and brands.

We’ve had a great time building The Core over the past few years and are excited to create a home for new artists with the incredible resources and support from