The Historic Merger of EMI

Introduction to the Merger of **His Master's Voice** and **Columbia Records**

The Formation of **EMI**

The year **1931** marked a significant turning point in the music industry with the merger of **His Master's Voice (HMV)** and **Columbia Records**, resulting in the formation of **EMI (Electric and Musical Industries Ltd)**. This merger redefined the landscape of recorded music and created a powerful entity that would dominate the market for decades.

History of **His Master’s Voice**

**His Master's Voice**, established in the 1890s, became one of the most recognizable brands in the music recording industry, symbolized by its iconic logo of a dog listening to a gramophone. The label produced some of the most popular recordings of its time and gained fame for its innovative recording techniques.

The Impact of the **EMI** Merger on the Music Industry

Growth and Innovation under **EMI**

Following the merger, **EMI** quickly expanded its roster to include a wide array of artists across different genres, significantly shaping popular music in the 20th century. This consolidation allowed for greater resources to be allocated towards innovation in recording technology and marketing strategies.

The Legacy of **EMI** in Music History

**EMI** would go on to not only influence the production and distribution of music globally but also pioneer the way music is consumed, embracing new formats and technologies as they emerged. Its legacy includes countless legendary artists and albums that have shaped musical history.

Fun Fact

Did You Know? **EMI** Pioneered Major Advances

One interesting fact about **EMI** is that it played a crucial role in the development of stereo sound recording and was instrumental in the introduction of long-playing vinyl records, revolutionizing how music was enjoyed.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on **EMI** and Music History

To dive deeper into the history of **EMI** and its impact on music, consider reading *EMI: A Century of Music* and *HMV: The History of His Master's Voice* for a comprehensive understanding of this iconic label.