Today I saw that Yamaha is launching a new division entitled “Yamaha Entertainment Group.” It’s great to see new brand partnerships directly between a brand and a band – this is something that is very rare and unique, yet it it SHOULD be common place for ANY big brand (not just a music brand). I’ve been saying this for a long time!
However this leaves a lot of questions, most of which could be answered by the terms of the record deal. But I thought of something else – will Yamaha pitch the record for use in advertising? This is something I would be really interested to know – because potentially it would be great exposure and money for the band and Yamaha. But it also seems like it could potentially create brand conflict. Would Yamaha Entertainment Group license its music to Harley Davidson? To Gibson? What about Guitar Center? Obviously it could create some very cool synergies too. Whatever the specific cases that crop up it will take some careful consideration.
Finally, what about music publishing? Does Yamaha intend to represent both the master and publishing? Obviously it would be great if they did, but it leaves a lot more questions to be asked by the band about possible revenue streams. How much time can Yamaha dedicate to fulfilling the roles of a label and publisher?
Good luck to YEG and their new signing Leogun! There are some great opportunities that I’m sure will arise from the partnership and I look forward to following it closely!