MUMBAI: Sony Music Entertainment India and Warner Music Group have announced a strategic licence deal for Sony Music to represent Warner Music’s legendary recording artists’ releases and labels in India, Sri Lanka and the other SAARC countries.

It was only a few months ago, in July 2013, that Warner acquired Parlophone Label Group. The combined catalogue is amongst the largest globally and encompasses a roster of some of the world’s most celebrated and popular artists and recordings.

Sony Music Chairman and CEO Australia & New Zealand and President, Asia Denis Handlin said in a release: “We are delighted to represent Warner’s music catalogue for the Indian and SAARC market. This is one of the fastest growing and exciting music markets in the world and India in particular has huge digital market opportunities. We have great plans to ensure that Warner Music’s remarkable catalogue reaches out to the vast array of existing and emerging music fans in that region.”

Sony Music president India and Middle East, Shridhar Subramaniam said: “We are very excited with this opportunity and are committed to aggressively push the Warner catalogue and new releases.  Through the combined strength of the two companies’ music, we are well positioned to grow the increasing demand for International music in India.”

The Warner Music catalogue includes some of the world legends from the music industry, and contemporary greats like Eric Clapton, The Eagles, Green Day,  Pink Floyd, The Doors, Madonna, Coldplay, Led Zeppelin, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nickelback, Kylie Minogue, Michael Bublé and Bruno Mars among many others.