Virgin Music Group
Virgin Music Group is a Universal Music Group division providing distribution, marketing, technology and rights services to independent artists, labels and rights holders. Established in 2022, it completed the acquisition of Downtown Music Holdings in 2026. It is distinct from the Virgin RecordsVirgin RecordsVirgin Records is a record label originating in the UK from Richard Branson and Nik Powell’s early Virgin music business. Launched as a label in 1973, it became associated with artists including Mike Oldfield and the Sex Pistols and later entered EMI and Universal Music ownership.Open the full entry label.
Contents5 sections
Key facts
2022Universal’s independent-services division
Universal Music Group established Virgin Music Group in 2022 to organize its independent-music services. It serves independent labels, music entrepreneurs and artists through digital and physical distribution, marketing and technology.[1]
February 20, 2026Downtown acquisition
Virgin Music Group completed its acquisition of Downtown Music Holdings, whose businesses included FUGA, CD Baby, Downtown Artist & Label Services, Downtown Music Publishing and Songtrust.[2]
2026Leadership and integration
At closing, Pieter van Rijn became COO, reporting to co-CEOs Nat Pastor and JT Myers and overseeing operations, technology, product and integration. Downtown founder Justin Kalifowitz departed, while Andrew Bergman moved into a senior advisory role.[2]
Related Organizations, Websites, and Public Accounts
Virgin Music Group: Official link: https://www.virginmusic.com/ (opens in a new window).[1]
Virgin Records: Official link: https://www.virginrecords.com/ (opens in a new window).[1][3]