Because Music

Because Music is a French-British independent label founded in November 2004 in London and Paris by Emmanuel de Buretel. The label achieved immediate international recognition with the release of Amadou & Mariam's Dimanche à Bamako, co-produced with Manu Chao. It expanded its roster with established artists including Rita Mitsouko, Manu Chao, and Camille, alongside breakthrough signings such as Charlotte Gainsbourg. In 2017, Because Music acquired part of the Parlophone catalog (including Mano Negra, Rita Mitsouko, JJ Cale, Les Négresses Vertes, and Beta Band) and the London Records catalog (home to Bronski Beat, Happy Mondays, Fine Young Cannibals, and Bananarama).

Entering 2026, Because Music continues its momentum with breakthrough releases from Rnboi, Sébastien Tellier, and the success of "What You Want" by Angèle & Justice. Pedro Winter, the founder of Ed Banger Records, is joining Because Music France in June 2026 as Global Head of Creation and Co-Managing Director. London Records now operates as a standalone label within the Because Group with new signings including Alewya, Joalin, Shadow Child, and a new Goldie project. Because Music operates as an integrated independent music company, combining artist development, catalogue strategy, and global direct-to-platform distribution across recorded music and rights management.

How Because Music Operates

Because Music runs dedicated A&R from its Paris and London offices. It operates direct-to-platform distribution globally, giving it independence from major distribution networks. The label's strength is French and European pop, electronic, and world music with international crossover potential. The 2026 addition of Pedro Winter (Ed Banger founder) as Global Head of Creation strengthens its electronic music expertise.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

If you make French or European pop, electronic, or world music with international potential, Because Music is one of the most successful independent labels in that space. Its track record with Amadou & Mariam, Manu Chao, and Angèle shows it can break European artists globally. Its direct-to-platform distribution model gives it independence from major distribution networks.

Drawbacks and Things to Consider

• European focus: Because Music's primary signing activity is in France and the UK. US-based artists may find it less relevant.
• No unsolicited demos: Because Music does not accept cold submissions.
• Niche roster: The label signs a curated roster of European artists with distinct identities.
• Direct-to-platform model: While independent, this means the label handles its own distribution infrastructure rather than leveraging a major network.

Related Resources

• Record Label Contracts Explained - What a Because Music deal contains
• Independent Labels vs Major Labels - The European independent model
• How to Get a Record Deal in 2026 - Building an international profile
• Ninja Tune - A related European independent label
• Because Music Official Site - Roster and releases