(CelebriyAccess) – Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has partnered with Hillsong, the music publishing arm of Hillsong Church, on an administration and writer development agreement in Europe.
Under the deal, Universal will administer the catalogs of Hillsong entities Hillsong Music Publishing and Shout! Music Publishing in Europe. Additionally, UMPG and Hillsong will have the chance to collaborate on writer development opportunities, as well as new joint signings.
Groups currently published by Hillsong Music Publishing include Hillsong Worship, Hillsong Young & Free, Hillsong United and Hillsong Kids.
Universal Music Publishing UK A&R Dougie Bruce said in a statement: “The administration agreement with Hillsong is a fantastic relationship that has grown from initially exploring collaborative and creative ideas to formalising a partnership in a unique environment. We are looking forward to integrating their writers into our team and identifying key opportunities across the music sphere. UMPG will also handle some 11,000 existing works, and new signings and songs will further increase this catalogue.”
Hillsong publishing manager Steve McPherson added: “UMPG are leaders in the music publishing world and we’re looking forward to exploring the opportunities for our songwriters and have great respect and trust in their team. We have had fruitful relationships within the Universal family in different parts of the world for many years and we’re very excited to extend this to the UK and Europe.”
Founded by Brian and Bobbie Houston in Sydney, Australia, in the ’80s, Hillsong Church now has locations in 23 countries and counts some 200,000 people, including celebrities such as Justin Bieber, among those attending its services each week. Hillsong Worship alone has created 46 albums with more than 300 songs, while the United branch has 17 albums. Hillsong is also home to three record labels, and hosts multiple worldwide conferences centered on music performances every year.
