Warner Music Group Acquires Iconic Italo Disco Catalogs DWA and Extravaganza

Warner Music Group Acquires Iconic Italo Disco Catalogs DWA and Extravaganza

By Marcus Hartley

January 16, 2025 at 03:28 PM

Warner Music Group has acquired the extensive catalogs of DWA Records and its publishing business, Extravaganza, marking a significant expansion in the Italo Disco genre.

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Men gather in wine storage room

The acquisition includes over 250 master recordings from DWA Records, founded in 1989 by Roberto Zanetti and Francesco Bontempi. Notable tracks in the catalog include Corona's "The Rhythm of the Night," Alexia's "Happy" and "Uh La La," and Zucchero's "Baila."

DWA Records has been instrumental in shaping Italo Disco, a genre that emerged in Italy during the late 1970s and gained widespread popularity in the 1980s. Characterized by electronic drums, synthesizers, and English lyrics, Italo Disco's influence continues in modern Eurobeat and Italo house music.

Roberto Zanetti (known as Savage or Robyx) began his career in the 1970s with groups like Santarosa and Taxi. His successful producing career includes collaborations with Alexia, Corona, Double You, and Ice MC. Francesco Bontempi (Lee Marrow) started as a drummer before becoming a successful DJ and recording artist with hits like "Do You Want Me" and "Shanghai."

Warner Music executives emphasize their commitment to preserving and promoting the catalog globally. The acquisition represents a strategic move to expand Warner's presence in non-English markets while ensuring the preservation of influential Italo Disco music for future generations.

The deal showcases Warner Music Group's continued investment in diverse musical catalogs and their dedication to bringing iconic music to new audiences worldwide through innovative promotion strategies.

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Drake performing onstage with mic

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American flags outside Wall Street buildings

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