Universal Music Group & Billabong Launch Global Brand Partnership

New York, NY (Top40 Charts/ Universal Music Group) Universal Music Group (UMG), the world's leading music company, and Billabong, the world's leading outdoor sports lifestyle company, have formed a strategic, global brand partnership that will bring together music and action sports through a broad range of innovative products and new services. The announcement was made today by Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG, and Derek O'Neill, CEO of Billabong.

Under this new agreement, UMG and Billabong will collaborate on the development of a broad range of services and products that will unite the world's most popular recording artists with the world's most celebrated successful talents in action sports.

Among these initiatives will be co-produced premium audio/visual content, live events, music compilations, sports and music merchandise, digital download offers, preloaded audio/visual hardware, streaming radio and TV, and a dedicated music service.

The partnership signals a diversification for both companies - leaders in their respective fields - to tap into changing youth culture appetites for entertainment and action sports.

"UMG and Billabong represent a unique partnership between two progressive companies that share a passion for creating compelling products and engaging experiences for consumers," said Mr. Grainge. "This is just one of many new global initiatives that we will be launching to help redefine and enhance the musical experience for consumers."

Derek O'Neill said: "Music is an integral part of our lifestyle and culture, and this partnership will no doubt enhance our brand's position by supporting compelling marketing initiatives revolved around film projects, events and our global athlete program."