Big Machine Records is currently owned by Hybe Corporation, a South Korean entertainment company, through its subsidiary Hybe America. The acquisition took place in June 2019 when Scooter Braun's Ithaca Holdings purchased Big Machine Label Group for $300 million. Later, in April 2021, Hybe acquired Ithaca Holdings for $1.05 billion, thereby gaining ownership of Big Machine Records.

The ownership history of Big Machine Records has been notably complex. The label was founded in 2005 by Scott Borchetta, who served as its president and CEO until its sale. During its independent years, Big Machine became one of the most successful independent record labels in the country music industry, largely due to its association with artists like Taylor Swift, Florida Georgia Line, and Thomas Rhett.

The 2019 acquisition by Ithaca Holdings sparked significant media attention, particularly due to the controversy surrounding Taylor Swift's master recordings, which were part of the deal. This transaction marked the end of Big Machine's status as an independent label.

Under the current ownership structure, Big Machine Records operates as follows:

• Parent Company: Hybe Corporation
• Direct Owner: Hybe America (formerly Ithaca Holdings)
• Management: Scott Borchetta continues to lead the label's operations
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee

While the ownership has changed hands, Big Machine Records maintains its focus on country music and continues to operate from its Nashville headquarters. The label remains a significant player in the music industry, representing numerous prominent artists and managing an extensive catalog of recordings.

The current ownership by Hybe Corporation represents a notable shift in the American music industry landscape, marking one of the first major acquisitions of an American record label by a South Korean entertainment company. Despite these ownership changes, Big Machine Records continues to function as a distinct entity within the larger Hybe corporate structure.

This modern ownership structure allows Big Machine to benefit from Hybe's global resources while maintaining its established presence in the country music scene. The label continues to sign new artists and release music under the Big Machine Records brand, though now as part of a larger international entertainment conglomerate.

Related Articles

Previous Articles