BMG and Concord merger is complete; Bob Valentine begins role as CEO
The BMG and Concord merger is complete; Bob Valentine begins role as CEO of new company
BMG and Concord have today (September 1) confirmed the successful completion of their merger.
The combined companies say the deal will “create a new global music company with the scale, expertise, and capabilities to unlock greater opportunities for creators.”
The transaction, first announced on April 28, 2026, has received “all required regulatory approvals”, according to a press release. The company’s global headquarters will be located in Nashville, with Berlin serving as its European headquarters.
As previously announced, the combined company will operate under the BMG name, and will be owned approximately 67% by Bertelsmann and approximately 33% by affiliates of Great Mountain Partners.
Affiliates of Great Mountain Partners received a one-time cash payment of $1.16 billion from Bertelsmann as part of the transaction.
Bob Valentine now assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer of BMG, with Thomas Coesfeld serving as Chairman. The combined company boasts a catalog of over four million works.
“The completion of this transaction marks the beginning of a new chapter for BMG, creating a business with the scale and resources equipped for the future. We believe that investing in creators, music rights, and AI will allow us to unlock new opportunities for artists and writers in a rapidly evolving industry,” said Thomas Coesfeld, Chairman of BMG.
“By building on the entrepreneurial cultures and independent spirit that have long defined both organizations, we have created a platform that is uniquely positioned in the music industry and set up for sustainable long-term growth. I am truly convinced that together, our passionate teams will continue to innovate with purpose and deliver exceptional service to our creative partners around the world.”
Bob Valentine, Chief Executive Officer of BMG, said: “Today marks an exciting new chapter for our combined company and the creators we represent.
“We have brought together exceptional teams, celebrated catalogs, diverse and talented rosters, and a shared belief that creative talent deserves both dedicated advocacy and sustained investment. While our reach has expanded, the mission that brought us together remains the same: to support artists over the long term, honor the legacies we represent, and help build the next generation of enduring music and culture.”