ALMO/IRVING & RONDOR MUSIC 1962 -1969

1963       1964       1965       1966       1967       1968       1969      

1962

Around the time Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss founded A&M Records, they also established their music publishing business, Almo Music. Almo is the first two letters of each man's last name. Almo Music Corp. was formally incorporated on October 5, 1962.

Jerry Moss brought Irving Music, named for his father, to the partnership. In its earliest days, A&M Records was a division of Irving Music. Both publishing groups, Almo with ASCAP and Irving with BMI, would represent A&M's interests in the United States. The publishing houses also had the Sharolyn Music and LaBrea Music catalogs.

Sometimes noted as Almo/Irving Music and sometimes as Irving/Almo Music Corp., the publishing houses were headquartered on the A&M Records lot. The street mailing address was 1358 North La Brea, Hollywood, California.

From 1962 until 1976, Almo and Irving's printed sheet music and music books would be manufactured and distributed by a number of manufacturers including Hansen, Key, and Walter Kane.

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1963

1964

1965

1966

By now, Almo and Irving Music had a catalog of about 200 copyrights and had 16 folios in preparation. Most of these were songs written by Herb Alpert, Sol Lake, members of the Tijuana Brass, and by Julius Wechter and members of the Baja Marimba Band.

Under Almo Irving, there were four music publishers: Almo and La Brea that were affiliated with ASCAP and Irving and Good Sam with BMI.

Alpert and Moss hired Chuck Kaye to head Almo/Irving. Kaye began to increase the number of staff writers and expand the number of copyrights held. The first hit song that was not on A&M was Ruthann Friedman's "Windy" by The Association.

Almo/Irving established permanent publishing facilities in Mexico, Australia and England.

Dave Hubert was hired as the administrative executive and A&M bought his Davon catalog. Through Davon, Almo/Irving added Mason Williams and Tandyn Almer to its staff of songwriters plus the Rod McKuen catalog.

Songwriters signed in 1966 included Art Podell, Johnny Walsh, Mike Brewer and Larry Marks. 

Lance Freed was hired on November 7. He would rise to the position of President, Rondor Music International.

Irving/Almo acquired the Bob Hilliard, Mort Garson and Day catalogs and signed the team of Roger Nichols and Paul Williams as staff writers as well as Larry Marks to LaBrea; Art Podell to Almo, Johnny Walsh to Irving and Mike Brewer to Good Sam.

A&M's publishing houses administered Good Sam for BMI and LaBrea for ASCAP.

Around May, Rondor Music, Ltd. opened in London. Chuck Kaye and attorney Abe Somer developed Rondor's first foreign publishing arrangement with Carlin Music. Cyril Simons was named director. Rondor's street address was 147 Oxford Street, London, England. They also established facilities in Mexico and Australia.

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1967

Among the staff writers at Almo and Irving were Kerry Chater, and Jack Conrad. Larry Marks was signed in 1967. In September, Almo announced a long-term recording and publishing contract with Ruthann Friedman. Tom Shipley and Michael Brewer were signed as staff writers to Good Sam Music. 

Almo created Irving-Almo Productions, a disc publishing unit, to help introduce its songs with Chuck Kaye, Roger Nichols and Tony Asher providing a&r services.

Joel Sill was hired as a professional manager for the writers and participate in developing new writers. Later in the year, Sill was chosen to head Almo/Irving's first New York office that opened on October 16, 1967. When Sill moved to New York, Art Podell became the west coast professional manager of Almo/Irving. Brenda Andrews joined Almo/Irving Music.

The disc unit was based on the realization that more artists were writing their own material rather than recording songs written by other people. Almo wanted to develop its own talent as writers who were also artists and it also supplied songs to artists not signed to A&M.

In August, Rondor Music International was established to handle A&M's international publishing concerns. Rondor was named for sons Ron Moss and Dore Alpert. Chuck Kaye ran the operation. Richard Stewart was named Rondor's director reporting to Kaye. The first offices were Rondor Music Ltd.-Carlin Music Corporation in England; Rondor Music Australia, Pty. Ltd.-Belinda Music Australia, and Rondor Music S.A.-Grever International S.A. in Mexico. Rondor also had publishing affiliations in Germany, Sweden, France, Spain and Italy. Armonic music publishing group distributed Rondor in Spain.

Acquired the Davon Music. Corp. from Dave Hubert, who became the director of A&M International.

The publishing wing now had over 1,000 copyrights.

Charles Hanson Publications was selected to produce and distribute A&M sheet music and music books.

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

Irving Music U.S. Copyright Application Cinderella Rockefella

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1968

"The most important thing with Almo/Irving] is attitude, both with management and artist. Our entire operation is keen and aware. Aware of the entire social structure of what's happening in the world, and of today's social attitudes.
--Chuck Kaye, Cash Box, October 26, 1968"

"I believe in music of all types. If it is good there's room for it somewhere."

"We live in a literate time, and you have to be literate today to have a universal expression. People are finally realizing that rock is not nonsense music--but rather a valid musical expression."

"Generations are turning towards music more and more and it's not because of dope. It's just that music today is more than a plastic disc--it's a life style."--Chuck Kaye, Record World, November 2, 1968.

The Rondor Group added Lloyd Music (SESAC), Berna Music (ASCAP) and Rodra Music (ASCAP).

Rondor Music Benelux founded.

Rondor's affiliates expanded to:

Argentina: Ediciones Internacionales Fermata and Rondor S.A. had a presence there
Brazil: Fermata Do Brazil, Ltda.
France: Agence Musicale Internatinale
Germany, Austria, Switzerland: Musiikverlag Aberbach Gmbh.
Holland, Belgium: Rondor N.V.
Italy: Gruppo Recordi
>Mexico, Central America, Venezuela, Colombia: Rondor Music S.A.
Scandinavia: Sweden Music Ab.
Spain: Ediciones Armonico
South Africa: Laetrec Music Limited

Nigel Burlinson was hired to administer Rondor in London.

Almo/Irving was the U.S. sub-publisher for several international groups including the Strawbs. Domestically, it signed John Braden.

Hansen and Hal Leonard were Almo-Irving's sheet music and music book selling agents.

John Rose was hired as Almo/Irving's Professional Manager to bring new writers and songs to the publisher. Also notable Brenda Andrews was hired. Starting with Almo as a receptionist, over the next 25 years, Ms. Andrews would be promoted to Senior Vice President and become one of the most influential women in music publishing history. Ms. Andrews was also one of the first African-American women in music publishing. She served as a role model and mentor for many others who wanted to work in the industry.

Almo/Irving computerized its songwriter, song and royalty information.

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1969

Billboard reported that Chuck Kaye negotiated the acquisition of the Beach Boys' Sea of Tunes catalog for $700,000. The deal was finalized on August 29, 1969. It included about 75 songs. Kaye said, "I felt it was important for A&M to be associated with music like this that will stand on its own forever...You literally can't do a film about [the 1960s] without playing Beach Boys music..." and "We're being careful that the music isn't used in any way that would cheapen it." (Billboard, May 17, 1975). Cash Box ran a different story that Jerry Moss negotiated the deal and that it included 400 songs.

Around the same time, the publishing house began administering songs in Denny Cordell and Leon Russell's Skyhill and Tarka Music in the U.S. and Canada. It also acquired Frank Werber's SFO publishing companies that added songs from Mike Stewart (We Five), John Stewart and Dino Valente. Almo/Irving acquired Island Records chief Chris Blackwell's four British music publishing houses Island Music, Ltd., Blue Mountain, South American Limited and Maroon Music.

Almo/Irving acquired Island Music Limited, Blue Mountain and South America Limited and Maroon Music Limited catalogs. These publishers had songs from Dave Mason, Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Jimmy Cliff, Blind Faith, Gary Wright, Traffic, Spooky Tooth and others.

A&M also created a deal with Chrysalis Records of Britain. This deal brought Almo/Irving the U.S. and Canadian rights to songs by Jethro Tull, Ten Years After, Blodwyn Pig and others.

Chad Stewart (Chad & Jeremy) was hired as producer for Almo Music. He produced Gayle Caldwell and Tarantula's albums for A&M Records.

Signed to Almo Irving staff was John Bettis, then lyricist for Richard Carpenter. As artists signed with A&M Records, many were offered music publishing deals, too. In the 1970s, Styx, Joan Armatrading, Chris DeBurgh, Supertramp, Peter Allen, Pablo Cruise, Peter Frampton, the Tubes and others would have Almo Irving as their music publisher.

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

1969 CASH BOX YEAR END CHARTS

In England, Rondor transitioned from its sub publishing agreement with Carlin Music to an independent publisher. Derek Green was named to direct the new office. Rondor's home became the Steinway Building at the corner of Conduit Street and St. George's Street, London. Rondor's initial operating funds was £10,000. Their first signing was the band Yes and their songs were Rondor's first wholly-owned copyrights.

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ALMO/IRVING & RONDOR MUSIC 1970s

1971       1972       1973       1974       1975       1976       1977       1978       1979      

1970

In January, Almo/Irving entered an agreement with North American Publishers for its printed music.

On February 28, Billboard reported that Almo-Irving had become a major international company in four years.

Chuck Kaye was promoted to vice president, director of publishing and recorded product. He also became the head of A&M's A&R department.

Rondor represented Sergio Mendes' publishing worldwide except for the United States, Canada and South America.

Jerry Moss executed a contract for Rondor Music's catalog to be administered by Altus Musikverlag in Germany.

Signed the Spanish group Taranto's.

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1971

Rondor Music in London opened in mid-year. It was headed by Derek Green and had a staff of eight employees. Rondor won the English publishing rights for songs by Leon Russell, the Doors, Hoyt Axton and Buddy Miles--all artists who did not record for A&M.

Rondor created a promotional sampler of songs by Roger Nichols and Paul Williams.

Rondor acquired the copyrights to songs by the rock group Yes through the Yes Songs-Campbell Connelly music publishers.

Began representation of the Doors catalog of songs.

BMI WRITER AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC ARTISTS

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1972

In July, Michael Arciaga established Almo Productions. This division would offer both complete soundtrack scoring or just the necessary elements. The songwriters on staff at Almo and Irving would be available to write music for feature films and for television.

Chuck Kaye began a two year sabbatical. Lance Freed managed Almo/Irving in his absence. Evan Medow became the vice president for business affairs.

By 1972, Almo/Irving acquired the catalogs of Mason Williams ("Classical Gas") and Ron McKuen.

Peach-Tree Pacific signed a three-year deal giving Irving Music the first option on its new writers and songs.

Peter Frampton and Humble Pie signed a world publishing agreement with Almo Music.

Helen Reddy was signed to Irving Music and her Buggerlugs Music to a co-publishing deal.

The most successful writing team for Almo/Irving was Roger Nichols and Paul Williams who had penned recent hits for Carpenters, Three Dog Night and other hot artists. The Nichols-Williams song "We've Only Just Begun" was nominated for the Grammy Song of the Year.

Rondor gained representation for Lou Adler's Hollenbeck Music and its subsidiaries in Britain. Rondor also acquired worldwide representation excluding the U.S. and Canada for Muscle Shoals Music, Hoyt Axton's Lady Jane Music and Leon Russell's Skyhill Music. Rondor signed Johnny Nash as a songwriter. Nash's most famous song was "I Can See Clearly Now."

Johnny Nash introduced Derek Green to Bob Marley who also signed with Rondor in 1972. Albert Hammond also signed in 1972 and brought "It Never Rains In Southern California" and "The Air That I Breathe" to Rondor. Derek Green's friendship with Richard Kerr brought him to the Rondor family with songs like "Looks Like We Made It" and "I Know I'll Never Love This Way Again."

Bob Grace joined Rondor Music in London as its general manager. He signed Gallagher & Lyle. His other focus was to expand Rondor in the UK and Europe. By this time, Rondor had more than 20,000 copyrights.

Pathe-Marconi was signed to handle Rondor songs in France.

On November 1, 1972, Derek Green left Rondor to become the managing director of A&M Records, Ltd. Bob Grace was promoted to general manager of Rondor replacing Green.

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1973

Billboard reported that Almo Productions was, "probably the first full-service film-TV score operation run by a record company." The division actively sought new projects as film companies announced their plans. Jules Chaiken (trumpet player, music contractor) was hired as Almo Productions' music supervisor. Chaiken worked with film music composers to determine the musical requirements, set up recording sessions, hire musicians, produce the sessions, mix the tapes and dub the music onto the soundtrack. The work was for both motion picture and television, particularly the ABC Television Movie of the Week.

Irving and Almo Music of Canada was established. It was structured as an independent entity and was not a US holding company. Graham Powers directed the office under Gerry Lacoursiere, A&M Records of Canada's general manager. Powers traveled to Nashville to try to create markets for Almo Irving Canada's songwriters.

Randy Edelman was signed to Almo Music to co-publish Piano Picker Music. Also signed John Simon, Tom Scott, Fred Myro, the Orphanage, Raymond Louis Kennedy and his Rayke Music during the year.

Almo/Irving Music began representing WEP Music, Billy Preston's publishing company.

Almo acquired the theme song from the television show "The Waltons" by Jerry Goldsmith in its publishing agreement with Roliram Music, a division of Lorimar Productions, Inc..

Pacific Music Publishing Co., Ltd. represented Rondor in Japan.

In March Evan Medow was appointed to head business affairs for Almo Productions. He was also the director of the Rondor Group (AKA Rondor Music International). In June, Bud Dain became the professional manager of Almo's staff writers and catalogs. In September, Jerry Moss announced that Medow would direct administration and Rondor International; Bud Dain would administer U.S. publishing functions and Lance Freed was the professional manager. The three men reported to Jerry Moss.

One of Medow's first artist signings to Rondor was Colin Blunstone.

Chuck Kaye resigned in October. In preparation for his departure, Bud Dain was named general manager, Lance Freed was hired away from A&M Records as professional manager at Almo/Irving Music. Evan Medow was named the director of Administration and Rondor International. Artie Wayne was the executive director of publishing.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1974

"We try not to limit our writers to any kind of exclusivity. We encourage outside relationships if the chemistry is right, and the prospects for strong material are increased by a healthy association with our writers. I believe that we are humanistically oriented, but there is an underlying aggressiveness to our approach which provides a strong motivating force for everyone in the company."

--Lance Freed, Record World, September 7, 1974

Brenda Andrews was promoted to professional manager serving as a liaison with studios, producers and record labels. In August, Artie Wayne resigned his position as the head of Almo/Irving. Among Wayne's contributions were placing the Peter Allen song "I Honestly Love You" with Olivia Newton-John who made it a hit around the world. He also placed "You're Sixteen" with Ringo Starr who turned it into a platinum single.

Lance Freed as promoted as Wayne's replacement. Freed began his career with A&M Records in November 1966. He held positions in international, college promotion, a&r, and as an assistant to Gil Friesen and later as Jerry Moss' assistant. Within Almo/Irving, Freed worked as a professional manager. He told Record World, "I am most proud of the first song I helped place, probably because of the writers involved and the ultimate success of the song. "Top of the World" by John Bettis and Richard Carpenter...For sentimental reasons, I particularly enjoyed placing Pail William's "Dream Away" with Frank Sinatra, since I knew that one of Paul's lifetime ambitions was to have Sinatra record one of his songs,"

In November, Chuck Kaye returned to Almo as the executive vice president.

Almo/Irving signed Supertramp through its Delicate Music. In Britain, Rondor signed Gallagher and Lyle to a worldwide songwriting deal. Other signings included Dire Straits and Joan Armatrading. Paul Williams left Almo after a six year association. Tom Jans re-signed to a long-term agreement.

Irving and Almo Music in Canada, like A&M Records there, was designed to acquire both songwriters and copyrights. Their songwriters were paid both a salary and a percentage on cover recordings of their songs. And, Irving and Almo Canada also became active in film and television scores. The publishing group moved into Madison house to be closer to downtown Toronto. 

"We are completely independent of the U.S. Irving/Almo company and the Canadian company does not in any way depend on the American catalogue, therefore we can give Canadian [songwriters] what they need."--Graham Powers, RPM, January 26, 1974

Irving and Almo Canada began 1974 with three songwriters: Valdy, Lorence Hud and Greg Adams. Powers planned to expand to six writers during the year.

Almo Music Corp. was named Billboard's Top Easy Listening Publisher.

Rondor signed a sub-publishing agreement with Czechoslovakia's Opus Publishing Company.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1975

"Songwriters are the most influential and creative factor in the business today. Anytime you associate yourself with a true songwriter, success will come your way. Although it is helpful to find a songwriter who is also recording his own tunes, I firmly believe in a songwriter as a songwriter."--Chuck Kaye, Cash Box, February 15, 1975

Chuck Kaye was named executive vice president of Almo/Irving Rondor. Lance Freed was promoted to executive director. Brenda Andrews was promoted to professional manager.

Almo/Irving promoted Joel Sill to general professional manager in February. His duties included coordinating activities of the creative staff; acquiring new staff writers, and developing all staff writers.

Helen Reddy, Will Jennings and Mentor Williams re-signed to long-term contracts.

In April Guy Fletcher and Doug Fleet signed a two-year agreement to have their Big Secret be administered by Almo Music in the US and Canada.  

In July, Almo Publications was created as the print music division of Almo Irving Music. It was headquartered at 505 Park Avenue, New York, NY. Eileen Michael was named its general manager. It was to develop 18 artist folios (music books) for current hit albums by A&M Records artists as well as other artists. Each folio featured the album's graphics on its cover and included artist information and photos with the songs. Almo had its own graphics staff to create the graphics that were intended to reflect the style of the artist. Ranging from 48 to 64 pages, these books sold for $3.95 to $9.95. Walter Kane provided distribution.

Almo Publications created a jack-in-the-box logo that was first used on October 29, 1975.

In August, Chuck Kaye and Evan Medow hired John Bromell as the first Managing Director of Rondor Music International in Australia. Bromell established the initial office on Mount Street in North Sydney and hired a staff of two to manage royalties, copyrights and licensing of the Almo/Irving and Rondor catalog. Bromell then set about signing local writers including Don Walker, Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, and the Radiators.

At Irving/Almo Music Canada Claude Palardy was hired as the Professional Manager. 

Rondor moved its offices to Parsons Green where it added computerized royalties.

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1976

Chuck Kaye promoted to president of Almo/Irving Rondor.

Rondor opened its Australian office with John Bromell as its first director.

Almo Publications issued 15 music books and 15 pieces of sheet music in its first six months of operation. It would now begin creating catalog collections from its copyrights, music instruction books, and music arrangements for different instruments. Thanks to its growth, Joe Carlton was named general manager of the division.

By July, Almo Publications had 60 folios from A&M artists and from outside licensing arrangements. Among the labels A&M made licensing agreements with were Casablanca, Polydor and Chrysalis that brought the right to publish sheet music and books for KISS, Blondie, Peaches and Herb, Donna Summer and others. Almo planned to release five new folios each month. The division had its own sales manager; licensing and music production manager; music production manager; art/production coordinator, and warehouse and service employees.

Almo Irving Music believed it held 10% of the printed music market and was in a position to develop a direct distribution network so it could be a print house on a par with Warner Brothers Music. It developed in-house capabilities for music licensing and production, art/production, warehousing and sales and then dissolved its distribution agreement with Walter Kane.

In March, Almo Publications announced that it signed the rock group Ambrosia to a contract that would produce music in both popular and educational fields.

Troy Seals signed a long-term contract in March and created a joint venture with Rondor with his Down 'N Dixie Music. This was the beginning of a Rondor office in Nashville, TN. Seals would be the president of Irving's operations in Nashville.

In July, Almo Rapid Play was introduced. It was a line sheet music and music books for beginning music students with arrangements for piano, organ and guitar with a retail price of $3.95.

On September 24, the Almo Rapid Play logo was used commercially for the first time.

In October and November, Almo Released five "Superstars on Guitar" books for Peter Frampton, Carpenters, Captain and Tennille, the Beach Boys and Paul Williams. Among the other books were "The Professional Audition for Vocalists," a guide to getting a theater, club or TV job with flexible arrangements of 52 hit songs. "Switched on Synthesizer" contained conventional arrangements with patch diagrams. "Basic Blues for Piano" included progressive exercises with a cassette tape for piano and synthesizer. The books featured color covers, art, graphics and photos.

A&M Recording artist and Almo/Irving staff writer Paul Williams won the Oscar for Original Song for "Evergreen," his collaborative effort with Barbra Streisand for the remake of "A Star Is Born." The song also won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song in a Film.

Signed Ambrosia to a contract to produce and sell sheet music.

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1977

Chuck Kaye was promoted to President, Irving/Almo and Rondor Music. He appointed Lance Freed as the company's vice president.

Derek Green who had been managing both A&M Records, Ltd. and Rondor Music since 1975, stepped down from Rondor. Bob Grace was promoted to Rondor's managing director and Kevin Eade succeeded Grace as Rondor's general manager.

Almo signed Burt Bacharach and Hal David, gaining control over their older material and new songs from the team. Catalogs from Ray Stevens (Ahab Music) and Fred Ahlens were signed to exclusive print representation deals. Denise Nicholas signed with Almo in a co-publishing deal.

It was a year of expansion as Irving/Almo and Rondor moved to strengthen its Australian operation by expanding its folios line.

Almo introduced its International Series of folios, Spanish/English song books by Captain & Tennille, Camillo Sesto, and Julio Iglesias. Each book was about 70 pages long, with artist bio and photos, plus songs. The first print run was 5,000 copies of each book. Retail price was $5.95. Almo intended to place its books in Mexico and South America.

Almo Publications acquired the entire catalogue of Chrysalis Music for reproduction and print of folios and sheet music.

Almo Publications established an education manager for its educational music product line. Ronny Schiff was its first director.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1978

Lance Freed was promoted to executive vice president and Evan Medow was vice president of business affairs and international

In May Brian Chater began acting as general manager of Almo/Irving Canada. He was made the permanent as the the General Administrator/Professional Manager in September. His main objective was better exposure for Canadian writers in the world market.

On June 18, the Almo Publications jack-in-the-box logo achieved registered trademark status. Almo Rapid Play's logo would be registered effective July 18, 1978.

Almo Publications released its "25 Super Sheet" folio and also created an easy guitar version of it. Almo Pubs also released jazz folios and its first trade book "Lookout Farm--A Case Study of Improvisation For Small Jazz Groups" intended as a college textbook.

Herb Alpert suggested a jazz collection for serious young instrumentalists. Almo created a six-edition volume "World's Greatest Jazz Solos" with works by 15 jazz legends. Each piece is graded for its complexity and were intended for people who had mastered their instrument.

Almo wanted to develop a stage and dance band educational series. The arrangements were for elementary school, junior high school, high school, junior college and college level bands. Almo signed Nelson Riddle for the project. It also had Don Ellis and Sid Garris create band charts. Almo also signed Les McCann, George Duke and Dave Liebman for its educational jazz books.

Rondor purchased interest in Danor Music. It also signed Dire Straits in May just as their "Sultans Of Swing" single was released.

In Los Angeles, Almo moved into its new publishing building. The offices would have a staff of 30 people.

In Canada, Almo/Irving entered sub-publishing agreements with Angel-Parker Music, Ltd. and Andrew Heath Music Ltd. Almo/Irving developed a sampler album of songs by ten of its staff writers to introduce Canadian songs and writers to an international audience.

Paul Kennerley signed with Almo/Irving, Allee Willis with Irving Music, David Lasley to Almo, and Will Jennings re-signed with Irving Music.

Down 'N Dixie Music signed Eddie Setser, Donnie Fritz and Max D. Barnes.

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1979

Almo's gross sales for the previous year were about $3 million with revenues coming from celebrity folios, hit song books and music instruction. In April, Billboard reported that Almo Publications was one of the three largest music publishers in the U.S. releasing an average of ten books and 20 sheet music titles each month. Joe Carlon was the director of Almo Publications.

The price of sheet music rose from $1.75 to $1.95.

On July 1 Columbia Pictures Publications took over the sales, distribution and warehousing of Almo/Irving's print division, Almo Publications.

Among the titles released by Almo Publications were 200 Super Song Hits, World's Best Loved Easy Listening Music, and World's Best Loved Sacred Music. From the Almo Rapid Play Series, World's Best Loved Christmas Music, Great Songs of Christmas, and Merry Christmas Darling.

In March, Joe Carlton left Almo Publications. Frank Unruh, controller of Almo/Irving/Rondor was named to replace him.

In April, Almo and Irving had 12 staff writers. It signed David Foster to Irving during the year.

Almo-Irving Canada created its first sampler with 30 songs by Canadian songwriters. The recording was sent to affiliates around the world, producers and other record labels.

Rondor Music signed a representation deal with the band The Motels.

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ALMO/IRVING & RONDOR MUSIC 1980s

1981      1982       1983       1984      1985       1986       1987       1988       1989      

1980

Chuck Kaye said the 1980s would pair songwriters with artists. His view was based on the need for more hit songs on each album. Representing songwriters to artists would create the potential to gain a larger share of publishing.

Linda Chelgren was promoted to manager of Almo Publications. She had worked in Almo's licensing department.

Brenda Andrews was promoted to vice president of professional activities with responsibility for placing Almo/Irving copyrights, and liaison with producers, artists and songwriters.

Ira Selsky became the vice president of business affairs. Allen Rider was appointed professional manager.

Chuck Kaye resigned his position as president of Almo/Irving and Rondor. Evan Medow, vice president of business affairs, left to go independent. Joel Sill, head of Almo Productions resigned.

Kaye's position was divided with Lance Freed becoming the president of Almo/Irving Publishing and Bob Grace promoted to president of Rondor Music International. Freed, son of DJ Alan Freed, had begun his career at Almo/Irving in the mail room and worked his way up in the company to executive vice president of Almo/Irving Music managing publishing in the U.S. and Canada. Bob Grace had been the managing director of Rondor Music in London and managed publishing for the rest of the world. Brenda Andrews was named the vice president of professional activities.

Irving/Almo and Rondor signed with Columbia Pictures Publications for distribution.

In January Rondor celebrated its tenth anniversary.

Rondor established a new position: European publishing coordinator to work with Rondor's European affiliates to maximize the exposure of songwriter and songs. The first person to hold the job was Jeremy Jones. Jones was promoted from his former position as assistant to Derek Green at A&M Records, Ltd.

Stuart Hornall was hired as Rondor Music (London) professional manager.

Signed Ali Thomson, Bob Marley, Melissa Theridge, Lary White, John Anderson, Everclear. In Britain, Rondor had representation of the Earth, Wind and Fire catalog.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

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1981

On January 1, Rondor Music opened its Paris office with the intent to acquire international catalogs.

Anticipating the opening of the Almo/Irving Nashville office on January 1, 1982, David Conrad was named the general manager and tasked to develop staff writers and expand its catalog. Lance Freed said, "This move is long overdue for Almo Irving. Nashville has been and remains one of the premier writer/publisher/artist-oriented music centers in the world, and in the past, our indirect involvement in Nashville has always led to signficant successes for us." Nashville went on to sign some of the most prominent country music writers including Rhonda Kye Fleming, Waylon Jennings, and Kent Robbins. The original office was at 1010 16th Ave. South, Nashville.

Later in the year, Almo/Irving and Rondor acquired the East Memphis Music catalog. East Memphis held many of the publication rights to songs from Stax Records. Primarily soul music, this catalog brought Otis Redding, Steve Cropper, Booker T. Jones, Isaac Hayes, Eddie Floyd, Al Green, Bettye Crutcher and other talented songwriters into the Almo/Irving family.

Almo/Irving also acquired the JEC catalog that featured songs written by Les McCann; the Down in Dixie Music and Danor catalogs.

By 1981, Almo/Irving administered the LutDix and Interior Music, and Bob Marley catalogs.

In 1981, Almo/Irving had 24 employees in royalty, accounting and copyright and 11 staff writers.

Thanks to the line "When you get caught between the moon and New York City" by Peter Allen that was re-used in the song "Arthur's Theme" Almo had a share of the Academy Award for Best Song from a Motion Picture.

Total copyrights were estimated at 30,000.

Ron Kersey was signed to a long-term songwriting contract.

Stuart Hornall was promoted to Rondor's General Manager of Rondor's creative division. He created a department that would find "young, emerging acts and investing substantially in the development of their careers." Peter Braslavsky was the new department's professional manage with Janice Telfer as its secretary. 

Effective August 1, 1981, Rondor's print music  was distributed by Music Sales in Britain. Chappell continued to produce the print music for Rondor.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1982

Almo/Irving opened its Nashville office on January 1 at 1010 16th Avenue South, Nashville. The new office was expected to enhance Rondor's catalog as well as Almo/Irving.

The Paris office opened. Jeremy Jones managed the Paris office. Before the Paris office was established, Pathe-Marconi represented the Rondor catalog in France.

On March 11, Almo/Irving signed the deal to acquire East/Memphis Music. The deal included Time Music which gave Almo the Otis Redding catalog; Jee Music with Al Green's catalog and Birdies Music.

John Bromell left his position with Rondor Music Australia and was succeeded by Bob Aird. Aird remained with Rondor through its sale to Universal Music Publishing Group and ultimately became the Managing Director of Universal Music Publishing Group.

Stuart Hornall signed Paul Brady to Rondor Music in London.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1983

Bob Grace told Billboard, "It's getting more and more important to sign a self-contained writer, who doubles as an arranger or record producer or who has access to artists in his own right. So I encourage my staff writers to get in on situations and write records. I think that's the staff writer of the future. It's not just someone sitting down and passively writing a song and saying, 'Her you are. Run with it.' You've got to get right in on the ground floor these days otherwise deals are prohibitively expensive. [It is] vitally important to have a nucleus of staff writers limited to a few key people we can really develop."

Nashville had its first No. 1 country single with Don Williams' "Stay Young."

Issued a limited edition of about 1,000 copies, five-album box set for East Memphis Music comprised of 81 songs and songbook. The set was sent to producers, artists, managers and songwriters.

Kent Robbins signed with Irving Music. He remained with Irving until his death in 1997.

Rondor Australia had its first hit with "Our Love Is On the Faultline" by Crystal Gayle. The song was also No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart in the U.S.

SOURCE:
Broadcast Music, Inc.

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1984

Almo/Irving Nashville signed a co-publishing agreement with Garth Fundis' Fundisway and Craftworks Music.

In October 1984 David Anderle was named to head the soundtrack division of A&M Records. One of the duties was to get A&M and Almo/Irving Music writers more involved in scoring for films, both for A&M Films and to other movie producers.

On December 25, the Almo Publications jack-in-the-box trademark was cancelled.

In July Rondor Music and Dave Most announced an agreement. Most was a music publisher and promoter who knew A&M's Derek Green and Rondor's Bob Grace for many years. Of the arrangement Most told Music Week, "I'm a publisher and want to work with writers and new artists....I'm getting involved, listening to material and seeing another side of the busines.....I really want to get into the artist side of things and work with them. That's always been my best asset. You play to your strengths."

Bob Grace left Rondor in Britain.

Lance Freed was promoted to President of Rondor Music International; Stuart Hornall was named managing director in London; Tom Bradley, vice president of European Operations also became the senior director for London, and Ira Selsky was appointed senior vice president.

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1985

The Almo Rapid Play logo was cancelled as a trademark on March 5.

On October 3, 1985 the Almo/Irving office in Nashville bought its new office building at 1904 Adelicia Street.

Rondor in Australia acquired the rights to Rocket Music. It also re-signed Reece Kirk and Graeme Connors.

By now, Rondor had offices in West Germany, France, and Holland as well as England, Canada and Australia.

Melissa Etheridge signed with Almo/Irving.

"What's Love Got to Do with It" was nominated for the Grammy Song of the Year.

Stuart Hornall was promoted to the managing director of Rondor Music in London and also senior vice president. Tom Bradley was elevated to senior director and Vice President of Rondor Music in London.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI MILLION-AIRS AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1986

Derek Alpert was promoted to Almo/Irving's director of music development for film and television and he continued to administer the print division. In Nashville, David Conrad was promoted to vice president and general manager.

David Foster was the BMI Songwriter of the Year.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

In Canada, Irving/Almo Music of Canada hired John Redmond to be its professional manager. He reported to Gerry Lacoursiere and Lance Freed. Irving/Almo had Paul Janz, Stan Meissner and the Arrows as its songwriters.

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1987

The Almo/Irving published song "How Will I Know" was the Grammy's Song of the Year.

Ron Moss, son of founder Jerry Moss and the "Ron" in Rondor, joined the music publisher.

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1988

For the second straight year an Almo/Irving song was Song of the Year at the Grammys. This time it was "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) by George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam. Merrill and Rubicam recorded for A&M as the duo Boy Meets Girl."

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1989

Nashville had 11 staff writers and an administrative staff of four.

On September 18, Brian Wilson filed a $100 million dollar law suit against A&M Records, Almo-Irving Music and the law firm of Mitchell, Silverberg & Knupp. Wilson alleged fraud, breech of contract, misrepresentation and an accounting of royalties for his Sea of Tunes catalog. Wilson claimed that he did not know that his attorney for the sale, Abe Somer, also represented A&M and Irving Music and was on A&M's board of directors. He also claimed that Mitchell, Silverberg & Knupp did not tell him that he could establish ownership of his copyrights and ownership interest in Sea of Tunes and thereby prevent the sale of the catalog. And, he claimed that he was never paid for the sale of Sea of Tunes. Wilson's attorney estimated the songs earned about $3 million a year and were worth $30-$40 million. The suit was settled in 1992.

Almo-Irving Music had revenues in excess of $40 million.

Almo continued its policy of developing talent from within its staff of writers because it gave the company all the income from publishing rather than a ten percent administration fee.

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ALMO/IRVING & RONDOR MUSIC 1990s

1991       1992       1993       1994       1995       1996       1997       1998       1999      

1990

After the sale of A&M Records to PolyGram the name Almo and Irving began using the Rondor Music International name. Almo/Irving of Canada was closed as Rondor realigned after the sale of A&M Records to PolyGram. Rondor had a worldwide workforce of 80 with half of them based in the U.S. Rondor opened a New York iffuce at 111 West 57th Street in July. New York was to have a staff of five employees.

Rondor Music bought Leon Russell's Shelter Music and the other catalogs under Shelter Entertainment Group including Tom Petty, Peter Tosh and Phoebe Snow.

Signed Craig Wiseman.

Almo/Irving won its third Song of the Year Grammy for Julie Gold's "From a Distance," the theme music from the Bette Midler movie "Beaches." Almo/Irving also took home Song of the Year with Eric Clapton's "Tears from Heaven."

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1991

In late 1991 Rondor Music International moved from its original headquarters to 360 North La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles. This was a new building that included a recording studio, offices for songwriters, gym, management information and royalty accounting operations, and more all designed around the needs of music publishing. 

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1992

Almo/Irving Rondor won its fourth Song of the Year Grammy with Eric Clapton and Will Jennings' "Tears In Heaven."

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

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1993

In April Rondor Music Australia announced it had the commission to provide music for the television show Paradise Beach. This was a show that had been sold to the U.S., England, France and Germany that was filmed in Australia. Bob Aird told Billboard, "We'll be providing the underscore, the incidental, the themes, and two or three feature songs each show. The opening this gives to break new and cutting-edge Australian acts around the world is probably unprecedented."

1994

Almo/Irving Music in Nashville began a multi-million dollar expansion of its office at 1904 Adelicia Street. The new building would add four writers rooms and a 16-track demo room. VP David Conrad told Billboard, "It would be fair to say that we generally wind up with a 20% to 30% increase [in profits] every year over what we did the last year." The Nashville presence included a staff of seven plus 18 staff writers. Billboard reported that it had co-publishing deals with Bamatuck and Kybama owned by Barry Beckett and Troy Seals; Don Schlitz's Hayes Street and Hayes Court; and Wayland Holyfield's Waylando. Almo/Irving Nashville also administered Clint Black's Blackened Music, Carl Perkins' Brick Hithouse and Waylon Jennings Music catalogs.

The Nashville office signed Pat Alger. The roster of writers included Mike Reid, Paul Kennerley, Michael Johnson, Troy Seals, Craig Bickhardt, Wayland Holyfield, Fred Knobloch, Kent Robbins, Gary Scruggs, Janie Lavon Lambert, Billy Livsey, Kimmie Rhodes and Gillian Welch. 

When Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss started their second label, ALMO Sounds, it was created as part of Rondor Music International.

Richard Butler signed with Rondor.

Almo Music was ranked as the fifth Hot 100 Singles Publishing Corporation by Billboard.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

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1995

Billboard reported that the combined Almo/Irving and Rondor had 40,000 titles in its song catalog. In 1995, it acquired all the I.R.S. Music and Bugle Music catalogs.

Rondor had four thrusts: artist development, film and television licensing, catalog acquisitions and publishing relationships. Part of its artist development program was to produce demos for writers signed to the house then help them get recording contracts with different labels.

Rondor acquired the German administration rights of the Essex Music catalog. It included works by Black Sabbath, The Byrds, The Move, Pink Floyd and The Rolling Stones.

A new Benelux office opened in Amsterdam.

Sherree Ford-Payne signed a publishing agreement with Rondor.

Stuart Hornall left Rondor Music in London. From 1985 until his departure, he served as its managing director and senior vice president.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1996

In February, Ralph Simon was named president of Rondor Music and ALMO Sounds in Great Britain and Derek Alpert was promoted to VP of motion picture music.

Senator Bob Dole's presidential campaign staff gave new lyrics to the song "Soul Man" by Isaac Hayes and David Porter. The song was played at campaign rallies, however the campaign never asked permission to use the song or change its lyrics. Both Hayes and Rondor, which held the copyright, objected for three reasons. First, the new lyrics created an unauthorized derivative work that violated copyright law. Second, use of the song implied endorsement of Dole. Third, use of the song in this manner could potentially devalue the song in the future. After receiving notification from Rondor of its concerns, the Dole campaign stopped using the song and Rondor sought compensation for the song's use by the Dole campaign.

Emmylou Harris signed with Almo/Irving in Nashville and was named ASCAP's Songwriter of the Year.

Billboard ranked Almo Music as the fifth Hot R&B Publishing Corporation and as the fourth Hot Country Singles and Tracks Publishing Corporation.

Melissa Etheridge was ASCAP's Songwriter of the Year.

Acquired the Lloyd Price and Lloyd and Logan catalogs.

Re-signed Mark Knopfler.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1997

Rondor Music bought the Squeeze catalog of songs, Javaberry Music. This was an 80-song catalog by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook and it included 31 titles the band had not recorded.

Rondor signed Nigel Kennedy in Great Britain.

Mary Del Scoby was promoted to vice president and general manager of Almo/Irving Nashville. Barbara Vander Linde was promoted to general manager at Rondor Music, Ltd.

Will Jennings and James Horner's "My Heart Will Go On" from the movie "Titanic" won the Grammy for Song of the Year and Oscar for Original Song.

ASCAP named Almo's "You're Making Me High" its R&B Song of the Year and "How Do U Want It" the Rap Song of the Year.

Almo Music ranked as the fifth Top Country Publishing Corporation by Billboard.

Rondor Australia celebrated its 30th anniversary. It reported to Billboard that Dire Straits Brothers In Arms album was the longest-running No. 1 album in Australian history and Bryan Adams "I(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" was Australia's longest-running single.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1998

The song "Don't Let Go (Love)" was named ASCAP's Soundtrack Song of the Year.

By 1998, Rondor Music International had offices in Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Homburg and Sydney.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI MOST PERFORMED COUNTRY SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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1999

Rondor sued A&M Records and its owner PolyGram N.V. claiming that A&M underpaid royalties, that A&M did not keep accurate accounting records on manufacturing and distribution, and did not give Rondor access to its books. Rondor sought more than $1 million in damages plus an accounting of royalties that were owed to it.

"This Kiss" was named ASCAP's Song of the Year.

The Nashville office had grown to 22 songwriters and nine administrative staffers.

The Canadian office of Almo/Irving was closed.

In October, Billboard reported the rumor that Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss were interested in selling Rondor Music International. Jerry Moss denied the sale at the time.

Rondor was Billboard's No. 5 Hot Publishing Corporation.

Alex Lloyd won the ARIA Awards Best New Artist.

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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ALMO/IRVING & RONDOR MUSIC 2000s

2001       2002       2003       2004       2005       2006       2007       2008       2009       2010       2011       2012       2013       2014     2015       2016       2021      2022      

2000

By now, the catalog included some 60,000 copyrights. Almo, Irving and Rondor had acquired the East Memphis catalog of Stax Records, and the suite of music publishers affiliated with I.R.S. Records including I.R.S. Music, Illegal Music and Bugle Music and enjoyed publishing arrangements with many top songwriters from the last 40 years.

Universal bought Rondor Music and ALMO Sounds for nearly $500 million. This sale was also to be the settlement of outstanding lawsuits filed by Alpert and Moss against Universal. The sale became effective in December 2000. In the first year after the acquisition, Universal reduced the Rondor staff from 120 people around the world to ten in the U.S. However, part of the deal allowed Rondor to continue operating as an independent company within the Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) conglomerate. Lance Freed continued to oversee Rondor's creative team that was managed by Ron Moss; business affairs under Mary Lee Ryan, and licensing. UMPG integrated Rondor into its administration systems, collected and paid royalties that were due to Rondor's writers and artists that it represented. Universal relocated Rondor Music with the U.S. The Los Angeles office was relocated to 2440 Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. New York went to 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, and Nashville to 800 S. Gay Street, Knoxville.

Shep Crawford was Rondor's most active writer for 2000. 

In Britain, Rondor Music was consolidated into Universal Music Publishing Group.

Mousse T won the Ivor Novello Award for Best International Hit of the Year for "Horney."

ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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2001

Rondor signed an exclusive worldwide print and digital rights agreement for its catalog with Hal Leonard music publishing.

Rondor Music London signed the Kaiser Chiefs as a development act. 

Al Green and Shep Solomon re-signed with Rondor. Annie Roboff re-signed to a worldwide agreement.

By 2001, Richard Thomas was the Managing Director of Rondor's London office. The office address was:

Rondor House
3 Heathmans Road
London SW6 4TJ

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI URBAN AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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2002

Rondor Music International signed Avril Lavigne to a worldwide publishing deal. It also signed Sophie Ellis Bextor.

Rondor writers, songs and artists were nominated for 19 Grammy Awards. Al Green received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

David Conrad left his position of president of Almo/Irving Nashville. 

Almo/Irving Music Nashville Christmas 2002

Rondor Music London moved to offices at

The Yacht Club
Chelsea Harbour
London SW10 0XA

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

David Conrad Appointment Press Release
Bobby Rymer Press Release

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2003

In its Summer 2003 newsletter, Universal Music Group reported Ron Moss was promoted to Vice President of A&R. His responsibilities included new signings, artist development and exploitation of the catalogs. Among the artists he signed were Trak Starz, Saliva, Soil and Patty Griffin. At the same time, Bobby Rymer was appointed VP of Almo/Irving Rondor Music Nashville.

During the week of September 22, 2003, Rondor Music International in London was closed permanently and on October 3, 2003, Almo/Irving/Rondor Music Nashville was also closed permanently and absorbed into Universal Music Publishing. The Nashville consolidation affected eight employees and 22 staff writers.

Emmylou Harris was honored with a limited edition collection of 17 of her songs from 1982-2002 titled The Road I Am Taking.

Rondor signed Obie Trice to a worldwide publishing agreement.

Signed Hakan Glante and Trak Starz (Shamar Daugherty and Alonzo Lee).

In October, Rondor Nashville was consolidated into Universal Music Publishing Group.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

Avril Lavigne won the Ivor Novello Award for International Hit Of the Year with "Complicated." She also won four Juno Awards.

Trak Starz Signed Press Release
Obie Trice Signed Press Release

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2004

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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2005

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

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2006

Almo Music was ranked the tenth Hot Country and the 9th Hot Country Music Publisher by Billboard.

In a joint publishing deal, Trey Bruce, Extreme Writers Group and Big Tractor Music signed with Rondor.

Kevin Hall was promoted to Vice President, Urban Music and Ron Moss was promoted to Executive Vice President.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC

Ron Moss Promoted Press Release

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2007

Ron Moss was promoted to Executive Vice President and Kevin Hall to VP, Urban Music.

Rondor Music had 17 songs nominated for Grammy awards.

Yolanda Adams signed with Rondor.

When Universal bought BMG Music Publishing in 2007, the European Union would only authorize the purchase if Universal sold $135M (USD). Universal agreed to the terms and began to sell Rondor Music UK's copyrights.

ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC

Brian Wilson was inducted into the U.K. Music Hall Of Fame.

Emmylou Harris was awarded the Leadership Music Dale Franklin Award.

At the Brit Awards, The Kaiser Chiefs won Best British Group, Best British Rock At and Best Live Act. Jack Johnson took home Best International Breakthrough Artist.

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2008

Emmylou Harris was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Albert Hammond was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall Of Fame.

Al Green received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards.

Ivor Novello Award for Songwriter Of the Year went to Mika and the International Newcomer Of the Year at the ECHO 2008 Awards.

At the Much Music Awards, Avril Lavigne received the People's Choice Award.

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2009

2010

Rondor relocated to the Universal Music Publishing Group's world headquarters at 2100 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA.

Rondor had the Song of the Year at BMI's Urban Music Awards. Rondor's Avril Lavigne performed during the closing ceremony of the Olympics.

Signed Jason Derulo and Melanie Fiona.

Rondor Music and Nacional Records and its publishing wing Canciones Nationals made a creative and administrative agreement adding Latin alternative music to Rondor. 

Rondor and Nacional press release

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2011

2012

In 2012, Rondor celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Lance Freed was inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame.

Lance Freed Songwriters Hall Of Fame

Billy Joel signed an exclusive worldwide publishing administration agreement with Rondor effective on October 1, 2012.

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2013

2014

On July 3, 2014 Rondor announced a worldwide music publishing agreement with DreamWorks Animation to include all existing DreamWorks Animation music and future film, television and live entertainment.

Rondor and DreamWorks Press Release

2015

2016

2021

2022

SOURCES:

Broadcast Music, Inc.
A&M Records 10th, 15th and 25th anniversary books.
BMI MILLION-AIRS AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
BMI MOST PERFORMED SONGS BY IRVING MUSIC charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
BMI WRITER AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC ARTISTS charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
BMI COUNTRY AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
BMI POP AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
BMI URBAN AWARDS BY IRVING MUSIC charts source Broadcast Music Inc.
ASCAP COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC charts source American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers
ASCAP RHYTHM & SOUL MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC charts source American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers
ASCAP POP MUSIC AWARDS FOR ALMO MUSIC charts source American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers
A&M Pubbery Expansion. Record World, November 12, 1966.
A&M Pubberies Grow. Record World, July 15, 1967.
A&M Pubs' Disk Production Unit. Billboard, September 9, 1967.
A&M Pub Keys Future to Mod Staff Writers. Billboard, November 2, 1968.
Irving Music Buys BB's Sea of Tunes. Cash Box August 30, 1969.
Moves Sparking A&M Pub's Fast Growth as Intl Firm. Billboard, February 28, 1970.
Rondor Music Bows with Pathe-Marconi. Billboard, June 5, 1971.
A&M's UK Publishing Division Solidifies Significant Foothold. Billboard, November 20, 1971.
U.S. Publishing Formula: Find Ancillary 'Specialization' Route. Nat Freedland. Billboard, January 15, 1972.
Music Capitals of the World (London). Philip Palmer. Billboard, April 8, 1972.
Almo Inks Four. Record World, March 31, 1973.
Dain to Almo. Record World, June 16, 1973.
Kennedy to Almo Music. Record World, June 23, 1973.
Trio Directs Irving/Almo. Cash Box, September 1, 1973.
Chaiken to Almo. Billboard, February 10, 1973.
A Music Man to His Bones. Record World, September 7, 1974.
Almo Publications Formed to Develop Artists' Folios. Billboard, July 5, 1975.
Almo Publications Bows; Michael Named Gen. Mgr. Record World, July 12, 1975.
Almo Inks Ambrosia. Record World, March 13, 1976.
Irving Signs Seals. Record World, March 20, 1976.
An Eventful Year for Irving/Almo. Record World, April 16, 1977.
Irving/Almo Music Names Freed Vice Pres. Record World, May 14, 1977.
Spanish Books Almo Music Publishing Line of Folios for Latin Market. Agustin Gurza. Billboard, July 9. 1977.
Almo Publications Gets Chrysalis Folio Rights. Record World, August 6, 1977.
Almo Taps Schiff. Record World, September 10, 1977.
Almo Releases Jazz Songbooks. Record World, June 3, 1978.
Almo Announces New Publishing Agreements. Cash Box, July 8, 1978.
Great Jazz Books In Almo Release. Cash Box, July 22, 1978.
Almo Debuts 'Trade Book.' Record World, July 22, 1978.
Irving/Almo Ups Freed, Medow. Record World, November 4, 1978.
Irving-Almo Ships First Sampler LP. Cash Box, February 17, 1979.
Almo/Irving Has Good Chart Year. Record World, March 10, 1979.
Bringing Canadian Material to the World, Robert Charles-Dunne. Record World, March 10, 1979.
Almo Ups Print Prices. Cash Box, May 12, 1979.
Columbia Film Publications Has Almo Deal. Ed Harrison. Billboard, July 7, 1979.
Integration o Writers a Trend. Irv Lichtman. Billboard, April 26, 1980.
Almo/Irving Ups Chelgren. Record World, June 7, 1980.
Andrews Named Almo/Irving VP. Record World, July 5, 1980.
Grace, Freed to Head Publishing for A&M. Record World, September 20, 1980.
Almo/Irving Music. Record World, February 28, 1981.
Almo/Irving Talks New Talent. Edward Morris. Billboard, May 26, 1983.
Party Schedule. Billboard, December 15, 1984.
Brian Wilson Seeks Song Royalties in $100 Mil Suit. Chris Morris. Billboard, September 30, 1989.
Almo Irving Is Building, In More Ways Than One. Edward Morris. Billboard, April 23, 1994.
Eaton Rifles. Billboard, April 29, 1995.
Essex Boys. Billboard, January 14, 1995.
Hayes Vetoes Dole's 'Soul Man.' Melinda Newman. Billboard, September 21, 1996.
Catalog Buy Unveils Squeeze Songs. Nigel Hunter. Billboard, July 5, 1997.
Newsline... Chris Morris. Billboard, June 12, 1999.
Words & Music. Jim Bessman. Billboard, June 2, 2001.
Universal Publishing Absorbs Rondor in London. Billboard, September 24, 2003.
Rondor Music International Nashville Consolidated into UMPG. Billboard, October 1, 2003.
Rondor, UMPG Consolidate Operations in Nashville. Billboard, October 1, 2003.
UMG Axe to Fall with 800 Layoffs Planned Worldwide. Billboard, October 16, 2003.
U.K. Publishing Returns to State of Grace. Nigel Hunter. Billboard, August 7, 2004.
An Indie Inside a Major? Susan Butler. Billboard, January 20, 2007.

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FORMER RONDOR MUSIC OFFICES

Please note these office addresses are historic, not current. 

Los Angeles
360 North La Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA

Nashville
1904 Adelicia Street
Nashville, TN

New York
110 Greene Street
New York, NY

Australia
Rondor House
78 Chandos Street
St. Leonards NSW

Belgium
Avenue Eugene Plasky 140B
1040 Brussels, Belgium

London
Rondor House
10A Parsons Green
London, England

France
32 Rue Etienne Marcel
75002 Paris, France

Germany
Rondor Muskiverlag GMBH
Hoheluftchaussee 108
120253 Hamburg, Germany

Holland
Singel 512
1017 AX Amsterdam
The Netherlands

BILLBOARD RANK

BILLBOARD TOP MUSIC PUBLISHER YEAR END RANKINGS

Based on Billboard's Year In Music, Talent in Action, and No. 1 Awards published every December.

SOURCES:
Billboard, March 29, 1975
Billboard, December 25.1976
Billboard, December 23, 1978
Billboard, December 22, 1979
Billboard, December 20, 1980
Billboard, December 26, 1981
Billboard, December 24, 1982
Billboard, December 22, 1985
Billboard, December 26, 1987
Billboard, December 22, 1990
Billboard, December 24, 1994
Billboard, December 23, 1995
Billboard, December 28, 1996
Billboard, December 25, 1999