EMI unveils launch of label based in Yorkshire

EMI, the Universal Music UK-owned record company, has confirmed it is launching a new label in Leeds.

It has said the operation, called EMI North, “will be dedicated to supporting the very best local talent in the North of the UK, and providing young people with opportunities to work in the music industry.”

It will be the first major British label occupying a physical space outside London. This will be run from Duke Studios, which is a creative hub in Leeds city centre, and will be led by Clive Cawley.

Cawley will shift from his current role of managing director, EMI, to president of EMI North. Over his 20 year-career, he has worked with performers such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, Beck, The Stone Roses and Taylor Swift.

The label has already revealed it has formed collaborations with two companies based in Leeds – Clue Records and Come Play With Me, a non-profit music development organisation.

Cawley told NME: “I’m delighted to finally open the doors to EMI North with a very simple goal: to support and invest in local talent, helping them to find new audiences and build their businesses.

“We have been overwhelmed by the reaction from the creative community in Leeds and beyond and are raring to go.”