Big Machine Records: Ultimate Guide to its Ownership and History
Big Machine Label Group is currently owned by Hybe Corporation, which acquired the label in 2019 through its subsidiary Ithaca Holdings. The deal was valued at approximately $300 million and marked a significant shift in the record label's ownership history.
Previously, Big Machine was founded and owned by Scott Borchetta in 2005. During his ownership, the label became one of country music's most influential companies, notably launching Taylor Swift's career and representing artists like Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett.
In June 2019, Scooter Braun's Ithaca Holdings purchased Big Machine Label Group from Borchetta. This acquisition generated significant media attention, particularly due to the controversy surrounding Taylor Swift's master recordings, which were included in the deal.
The ownership structure changed again in April 2021 when South Korean entertainment company Hybe Corporation (formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment) acquired Ithaca Holdings for $1.05 billion. This deal brought Big Machine Label Group under Hybe's corporate umbrella, though the label continues to operate as a distinct entity.
Under the current ownership structure: - Hybe Corporation is the parent company - Ithaca Holdings operates as a subsidiary of Hybe - Big Machine Label Group functions as a division within this corporate structure - Scott Borchetta remains as President and CEO of Big Machine Label Group
The label continues to be based in Nashville, Tennessee, maintaining its strong presence in the country music industry while benefiting from Hybe's global entertainment expertise and resources.
This ownership arrangement represents a significant evolution in the music industry, combining traditional American country music business with global entertainment operations through Korean ownership, creating one of the most diverse music companies in the world.