WMG acquires DWA Records
Warner Music Group acquires DWA Records, bringing Italo disco hits like “The Rhythm of the Night” to its catalog and expanding its portfolio.
Warner Music Group (WMG) has officially acquired DWA Records, the Italo disco label, and its publishing subsidiary, Extravaganza. After the announcement on Tuesday we know that the catalogue acquired will add over 250 master recordings to WMG’s already portfolio including iconic tracks such as “The Rhythm of the Night,” “Happy,” and “Uh La La”.
Founded in 1989 by Roberto Zanetti and Francesco Bontempi, DWA Records has been a cornerstone of the Italo disco movement, producing music that has shaped the genre for decades.
Pico Cibelli, President of Warner Music Italy, and Santiago Menéndez-Pidal, President of Southern Europe for Warner Chappell Music, have expressed their enthusiasm about the acquisition. “Italo disco is the lifeblood of the Italian music scene, and DWA has been at the heart of the scene for more than three decades. We’re so pleased that Roberto and Francesco have placed their faith in us as the custodians of their catalog,” they said in a joint statement.
This acquisition aligns with WMG’s broader strategy of acquiring niche labels that specialize in specific genres, reflecting the company’s dedication to promoting diverse musical styles.
By preserving and expanding the reach of DWA’s legacy, Warner Music Group is aiming to ensure its place in the future of the global music scene.