M+E Daily

Sohonet and Universal Music Group have embarked on a substantial programme to support the world leader in music-based entertainment’s drive to build sector-leading video capture and production capabilities. Embracing the potential for UHD entertainment, 24/7 global workflows and real-time artistic collaboration across continents, UMG is investing in working with best-of-breed partners across 4K video, advanced audio systems and post-production at its iconic studio locations, including Abbey Road Studios in London and Capitol Studios in Los Angeles.

The studio upgrades, deploying high-end broadcast facilities at the heart of UMG’s day-to-day operations, have been designed to create a global infrastructure capable of supporting production at scale, enabling round-the clock work patterns and international collaboration to set a new standard for the music industry.

Michael Frey, President of Operations and Advanced Media, said: “UMG is committed to building the level of internal production capability required not only to satisfy the demands of audiences worldwide, but also to advance the boundaries of music enjoyment – from how artists work together and engage with their audiences to how fans consume and immerse themselves in content.

“It is critical we work with gold standard partners who can bring value and insight to the process. Sohonet is trusted throughout the media industry and it was clear from the start of our discussions that not only did they understand our vision, but that they would bring the expertise and experience we needed to make this step forward a success for UMG, our labels, our artists, and fans everywhere. This partnership will enable millions of people worldwide to simultaneously enjoy the creative works of Universal Music’s artists without the barrier of physical proximity.”

Sohonet’s expertise in delivering and managing media optimised network services around the globe, coupled with its experience in building the world’s largest community-of-interest network; make it the logical partner of choice for UMG to further enhance collaboration between artists and their audience both socially and technically.

To support UMG’s vision Sohonet has deployed multi-Gbps high speed trans-continental connectivity, initially between UMG’s Abbey Road Studios and Capitol Studios dedicated access to the Sohonet Media Network and Sohonet FastLane capacity into Cloud Platforms on West Coast US and Europe.

This has empowered UMG to deploy real time collaboration solutions between studios, enabling them to adopt highly effective production/post-production workflows and distribution models with 3rd parties.

Sohonet’s CEO Chuck Parker said: “Enabling collaboration within the media industry in support of better content and experience is core to Sohonet’s DNA. When UMG first approached us and outlined their vision we were immediately excited by the scope and committed ourselves to helping them bring this vision to fruition.”