Fontana Partners With Rap-A-Lot Records

Seminal Rap Label Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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May 17, 2010, 06:00 ET

LOS ANGELES, May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Fontana, the independent distribution arm of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company, has signed an exclusive distribution deal with critically-acclaimed Rap-A-Lot Records, it was announced today by Ron Spaulding, President of Fontana, and James Smith (a.k.a. J. Prince), Founder of Rap-A-Lot Records.

Rap-A-Lot Records was created in Houston in 1986, putting the South on the hip-hop map with its most famous act, The Geto Boys. Rap-A-Lot has continued to focus on rap by navigating the careers of Devin The Dude, Tela, Yukmouth, Do or Die, Scarface, Z-Ro, Bun B, Pimp C, and Trae Tha Truth, among many others. Rap-A-Lot has released almost 200 titles to date and recently launched the upcoming celebration of the label's 25th Anniversary. The company will mark the anniversary with releases from Z-Ro, Bun B, Pimp C and several themed compilations using select songs from Rap-A-Lot's extensive catalog.

"I have been doing business with James Prince and Rap-A-Lot for a long time and it is an honor to welcome his entire team to Fontana. James is a true music visionary and has established Rap-A-Lot as one of the great pioneers of southern hip-hop, a true original," stated Mr. Spaulding. "And as they approach their well-earned milestone of 25 years in the industry, Fontana is thrilled to embrace their innovation, rich catalog and talented artists as we play a role in the next exciting chapter of their history."

"I am excited about Rap-A-Lot Records' new journey and the opportunity to work with Jim Urie (President & CEO, Universal Music Group Distribution) and Ron, two music executives that I have the utmost respect for," added J Prince. "I believe in the Universal/Fontana system and I look forward to having the Rap-A-Lot brand be a part of the #1 music company."

About Fontana

Fontana Distribution, the independent arm of Universal Music Group Distribution, provides unparalleled sales and marketing support, as well as back office services, for a diverse roster of labels and their artists. Fontana distributes more than 80 labels including Eagle Rock, Downtown, Vagrant Records, WaterTower Music, American Gramophone, Kedar Entertainment, Last Gang, Savoy Label Group, ESL, Music World, Delicious Vinyl, Ipecac, Six Degrees, SMC, VP Records, and many others. In addition, Fontana distributes select projects from UMG labels worldwide.

SOURCE Universal Music Group