The Deals: Reservoir’s PopIndia Acquires Vincey Productions Catalog; A State of Trance Extends Insomniac Partnership

PopIndia, the India-based subsidiary of Reservoir Media, announced two new deals: the acquisition of all compositions and masters owned by Chennai, India-based Vincey Productions; and a publishing agreement for the future works of Indian hip-hop producer Rajvir Singh, known professionally as 30KEY!

Vincey Productions’ catalog of South Indian music is particularly focused on children’s and Tamil and Telugu Christian and devotional music. PopIndia also acquired all of Vincey’s owned and operated YouTube channels, which boast more than 10 million subscribers, according to a press release.

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Singh is best known for his association with Punjabi artist Talwiinder, along with Kashmiri hip-hop artists including SOS (Straight Outta Srinagar) and Ahmer.

Vincent Raj, founder of Vincey Productions, said in a statement, “Over the years, we have built a rich catalog, bringing together talented artists and musicians to create quality music that touches people’s hearts and reflects the diverse musical traditions and tastes of listeners across India. We are proud of the legacy we have built and are excited to partner with PopIndia to amplify these songs and bring them to an even broader audience.”

“I’m so excited to start this new chapter with PopIndia and Reservoir,” added Singh (aka 30KEY!). “This is a big step for me as a songwriter and creator, and I can’t wait to see what’s ahead.”

Spek, Reservoir’s executive vp of international and emerging markets and founder/CEO of Reservoir’s partner PopArabia, added, “With these two deals, PopIndia and Reservoir are continuing to expand our presence across India’s diverse regional music landscape, from the deep catalog of established devotional repertoire represented by Vincey Productions to the next generation of creators through signing 30KEY!. Together these deals reflect some of the breadth of opportunity in India and our commitment to building a portfolio of culturally significant music that resonates across the country and globally.”

In addition to the deals, PopIndia announced the appointment of Diya Patil as operations manager. Previously supporting Reservoir and PopIndia out of Reservoir’s New York headquarters, Patil will work alongside PopIndia head of operations Ray Ahmed. — Chris Eggertsen

• A State of Trance Extends Partnership With Insomniac

  A State of Trance (ASOT), the trance brand founded by Armin van Buuren, extended its partnership with Insomniac through 2019. Under the deal, Insomniac will continue overseeing the global production and promotion of ASOT events. This includes Insomniac Europe and Rotterdam Ahoy’s continued partnership around ASOT’s flagship festival, which is next slated for Feb. 26-27, 2027 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. As part of the extended partnership, Insomniac’s European division will also play a role in producing ASOT events globally.

  The next ASOT event taking place under the partnership is van Buuren’s five-date residency at [UNVRS] Ibiza celebrating 25 years of the trance brand. That residency began on Monday (Sept. 7) and runs through Oct. 5. — Chris Eggertsen

• Fono Announces Partnership With Indie Label Dinero Nuevo to Develop New Regional Mexican Talent

  

  Fono announced a partnership with California-based independent label Dinero Nuevo to develop a new generation of Mexican music artists emerging from digital platforms. Led by Aldair Ángel Castillo, Dinero Nuevo has developed viral acts including El De Las R’s. Blending modern corridos with contemporary Mexican music influences, El De Las R’s has amassed 12 million monthly Spotify listeners and become one of the genre’s most impactful rising artists. The label’s growing roster also includes Adrián Beltrán, Giovanni y Su Equipo Escoltado and Grupo Otro Estilo. — Tere Aguilera

• U.K. Event Series La Discothèque Receives Escapism Investment

  U.K. event series La Discothèque received an investment from Escapism, the electronic music brand and family office led by Dez Derry. The investment will fund La Discothèque’s expansion into new international markets including North America, Europe and Asia. It will additionally support the expansion of the La Discothèque team, allowing the brand to run multiple shows simultaneously. Kat Warburton will continue as La Discothèque’s CEO.

  The value of the transaction was not disclosed.

  This marks the first investment for Derry’s eight-figure family office fund that’s focused on electronic dance music brands targeting an older demographic. The goal is to complete six such deals in the next three years.

  Brian Doyle and Ben Stoter of Ross Bennett Smith served as M&A advisors to Derry’s family office for the transaction. Pearse Connery and Ethan Turner of JMW Solicitors served as legal counsel for the deal. — Chris Eggertsen

• Warner Music Austria & ADA Central Europe Strike Partnership With Tonherd

  Warner Music Austria and ADA Central Europe signed a distribution and studio partnership with Vienna-based indie label, publisher and creative hub Tonherd, which consists of Constantin Kaiser, Florian Koch and Valentin Bröderbaue. Under the deal, Warner Austria and ADA Central Europe will handle global distribution and provide support for Tonherd’s roster domestically and internationally. Tonherd artists will also enjoy direct access to Tonherd’s studio facilities.

  Tonherd’s creative production team has helped craft songs for Austrian artists including Ina Regen, Josh. and Pizzeria & Jaus. The first release under the new partnership will come from artist Michael Russ, with additional releases scheduled from artists including arms, Fräulein Peter and Now. — Chris Eggertsen