Virgin Music Group Inks Distro Deal with Mom+Pop Music

Photo Credit: Virgin Music Group, Mom + Pop Music

Virgin Music Group, which operates under Universal Music Group (UMG), has signed an international distribution deal with Mom + Pop Music.

Mom + Pop Music is an independent label founded by Michael Goldstone and Thaddeus Rudd. Through this deal, its catalog and artists will be distributed globally through Virgin Music’s network. Mom + Pop Music began in 2008, with Goldstone and Rudd owning the label entirely.

The label works with artists like MGMT, Caamp, Del Water Gap, Magdalena Bay, and Tiny Habits. According to the official press release, the core focus remains on allowing artists “more creative control and long-term support outside the major-label system.”

“Goldie and Thaddeus’s vision for Mom + Pop reflects the same independent spirit and ambition that drives everything we do at Virgin Music Group,” says Nat Pastor and JT Myers. “They’ve built one of the most respected and successful independent labels in the world, and their decision to partner with us is a powerful validation of what we’re building. We’re honored by their trust and excited to support Mom + Pop in this next chapter of global growth.”

Goldstone’s history includes launching acts such as Pearl Jam and Cage The Elephant. The label has also released music from Tegan and Sara, Sleater-Kinney, Porter Robinson, and Ingrid Michaelson. Mom + Pop’s catalog includes Flume’s album Skin (2016), featuring the single “Never Be Like You” which has more than two billion streams. Ashe’s “Moral of the Story” and Beach Bunny’s songs “Prom Queen” and “Cloud 9” have each achieved platinum status.

“Partnering with the team at Virgin is positively the right fit for us—they’ve been the most flexible and respectful of our ethos and independence,” says Goldstone about the deal. “Thaddeus and I have worked with JT, Nat, Jacqueline, and Jeremy in different capacities over the years, and that shared history—along with their entrepreneurial spirit—was the catalyst for this partnership.”

“Virgin is a place where entrepreneurs are empowered,” adds Rudd. “We share a deep belief in artistry, a passion for music, and a commitment to independent music. That shared foundational view will be a powerful next chapter for Mom + Pop.”