EMI

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EMI CPS Emitron Camera Head, 1950 (7649950230)

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EMI Group Limited (originally an initialism for Electric and Musical Industries) was a British transnational conglomerate founded in March 1931 in London. At the time of its break-up in 2012, it was the fourth-largest business group and record company in the music industry, and it was one of the "big four" record companies (along with Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Music Group). EMI's global success as a music company was attributed to its roster of artists and its catalogue of recordings, which includes pieces by many of the world's most famous artists.

History

EMI was formed in March 1931 by the merger of the UK Columbia Graphophone Company and the Gramophone Company, with its "His Master's Voice" record label. The company was an early pioneer in the music industry, and it played a significant role in the development of recording technology, including the introduction of the LP record and advancements in studio technology.

Throughout its history, EMI owned and operated several iconic recording studios, including Abbey Road Studios in London, which is famously associated with The Beatles. The Beatles' recordings at Abbey Road brought EMI considerable fame and contributed significantly to the studio's legendary status in the music world.

Divisions and Labels

EMI's operations were divided into two main areas: EMI Music, which focused on the recording and publishing of music, and EMI Music Publishing, which dealt with the administration of music copyrights. The company's portfolio included a wide range of labels, catering to various music genres and markets. Some of its most notable labels included Parlophone, Capitol Records, Virgin Records, and Blue Note Records.

Technological Contributions

EMI is also remembered for its contributions to technology. Apart from its advancements in music recording and production, EMI engineers developed the CT scanner, a revolutionary medical imaging device, in the 1970s. This invention underscored the company's diverse interests and capabilities beyond the music industry.

Demise and Legacy

The digital revolution and the rise of online music distribution in the early 21st century posed significant challenges for EMI. The company struggled financially and was eventually split up. In 2011, EMI's recorded music division was sold to Universal Music Group, and its music publishing division was sold to a consortium led by Sony/ATV Music Publishing in 2012.

Despite its dissolution, EMI's legacy in the music industry endures. Its rich catalogue of recordings, historic studios, and contributions to music and technology have left an indelible mark on the world.

See Also

• Music industry
• Record label
• Abbey Road Studios
• The Beatles