Merlin Network: The New Hero of Indie Music Labels

Merlin Network is a rights agency that represents independent labels in the music industry. Its goal is to help indie music companies exploit the commercial values of their copyrights worldwide and to act as the entry point to the world of music entertainment. Merlin is a not-for-profit organization.

In June 2013, Merlin reported that the agency’s membership stands at 120,000 which composed independent labels and rights representatives. Its catalogue has more than 3 million titles from 35 countries. Merlin also reported that the agency accounts for more than 10% of the digital markets around the world.

Merlin was conceptualized in October 2006 but was formally established in January 2007. Some of the pioneer indie labels that launched Merlin were WIN, PIAS, Tommy Boy and Beggars Group. Merlin started accepting membership in January 2008. By the end of May 2008, more than 200 independent labels have joined the agency. Its membership was reported at 8% of the global market.