Music major Universal to develop NFT fan collection

Universal Music Group (UMG) is working with Curio, an NFT platform for entertainment brands, to launch NFT projects from UMG’s record labels, operating companies and recording artists. 

The collaboration will also allow UMG to create and launch future NFT projects with its roster of artists and labels, providing greater “scalability and flexibility to issue authentic fan-oriented collectibles, carefully curated for each project,” according to a statement from the company. 

“UMG and our labels are focused on developing NFT projects that authentically engage and speak to our artists’ fanbases and new audiences,” said Michael Nash, Universal Music Group’s Executive Vice President, Digital Strategy, in a statement. “With Curio, our labels will have a secure and dedicated platform to host these premium projects and provide new opportunities for collectors and fans from around the world to acquire unique pieces, inspired by their favorite artists and labels. UMG is focused on developing new opportunities in this space that place our artists and labels at the forefront, working to ensure that the evolution of Web3 provides exciting new avenues for their creativity.”

Since its launch in 2020, Curio dropped its first NFTs in February of last year. To date, the company has released over 75,000 NFTs with entertainment brands. Co-CEO and co-founder Ben Arnon previously worked at UMG. 

“Curio is thrilled to be partnered with UMG in the NFT and Web3 space. UMG has a huge catalog with unlimited opportunity to deliver value to fans across the globe,” Arnon said in a statement. “And the digital innovation and Web3 expertise amongst their executives is unparalleled.”

The companies are working together to launch its first issue in March with Capitol Music Group artist Calum Scott.