NEW YORK— January 24, 2019—Sony Music Entertainment has entered into a worldwide talent development partnership with music entrepreneur Chris Zarou, manager for Logic, Jon Bellion and others, it was announced today.

Under the agreement they are launching Visionary Records, a new Sony Music imprint focused on discovering and advancing innovative artistry.  Zarou will serve as CEO of the New York-based label and Sony Music will distribute new Visionary signings.

Said Rob Stringer, CEO, Sony Music, “We are delighted to be partnering with Chris to identify and develop emerging artists through Visionary Records. He is a highly driven and futuristic young career builder, and we look forward to an exciting relationship.”

Said Zarou, “I’m so grateful for the opportunity that Rob Stringer has given me. I look forward to the challenge ahead and building both career and global artists with Sony Music’s amazing teams. Artist development will continue to be at the core of our business at Visionary Records, and we are thrilled to partner with artists who will push boundaries and shape the landscape of music for years to come.”

An entrepreneur at his core, Zarou works at the intersection of art, strategic marketing, and technology to execute the visions of his artists and propel their careers. He is the CEO of independent artist management company Visionary Music Group, which he founded in 2010 recognizing the importance of true artist development, and understanding the key role that strategic internet marketing plays in cultivating fan bases and translating fan engagement into massive commercial, touring, merchandise and branding success. Zarou’s artist development tactics have supported the career growth of Grammy-nominated Logic, who has amassed 4.5 million equivalent units in total album consumption and sold over 650,000 tickets. This includes two consecutive number one albums in 2016 and 2017, followed by national tours highlighted by sold out arena shows at Madison Square Garden and The Forum. In the pop space, Zarou has supported the rising development of Jon Bellion, who scored the three-times platinum hit, “All Time Low” and has now played over 100 consecutive sold out shows. A successful songwriter as well, Bellion also has contributed to a number of other artists’ hits including “The Monster” (Eminem and Rihanna) and “Trumpets” (Jason Derulo). Recognized by Forbes Magazine as part of their 2017 “30 Under 30” class, Zarou’s marketing strategies and campaigns have been highlighted by the likes of The Clio Awards (receiving the 2018 Grand Clio Award for music marketing).

About Sony Music Entertainment

Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company with a current roster that includes a broad array of both local artists and international superstars. The company boasts a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. It is home to premier record labels representing music from every genre, including Arista Records, Arista Nashville, Beach Street Records, Black Butter Records, BPG Music, Bystorm Entertainment, Century Media, Columbia Nashville, Columbia Records, Day 1, Descendant Records, Disruptor Records, Epic Records, Essential Records, Essential Worship, Fo Yo Soul Recordings, House of Iona Records, Insanity Records, Keep Cool, Legacy Recordings, Masterworks, Masterworks Broadway, Ministry of Sound Recordings, Monument Records, OKeh, Palm Tree Records, Polo Grounds Music, Portrait, RCA Inspiration, RCA Nashville, RCA Records Relentless Records, Reunion Records, Same Plate Entertainment, Sony Classical, Sony Music Latin, Star Time International, Syco Music and Verity Records. Sony Music Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America.