McCartney Yanks Catalog From EMI

Although McCartney’s contract with EMI expired in 2007, his back catalog, including his work with his post-Beatles band Wings as well as pre-2007 solo releases remained with the major label, according to the Wall Street Journal. McCartney has since released three albums on Concord.

The former Beatle’s dissatisfaction with EMI has been evident for quite some time, dating back to when private equity firm Terra Firma acquired the label in 2007. Since then he hasn’t expressed much affection for the label, at one point telling a reporter that management treated artists as “part of the furniture,” according to the New York Times.

This makes Macca the latest major artist to depart EMI since Terra Firma stepped into the picture. Other notable ex-EMI recording acts include Radiohead and The Rolling Stones. While EMI still controls Radiohead’s catalog, the Stones were able to take their older works with them.

The first project for Concord will be a deluxe reissue of Wings’ 1974 album Band On The Run, including previously unreleased material, the Journal reports.

“I’ve had a good working relationship with Concord,” McCartney said in statement. “I’m looking forward to continuing this relationship.”

Click here to read the complete Wall Street Journal article (subscription may be required), and here to read the New York Times piece.