Universal Music Germany, a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), today announced that one of Europe’s most successful dance labels is stepping into a new era. Virgin Records Germany officially becomes Intercord Records – a bold, forward-looking rebrand that celebrates both heritage and evolution, marking the beginning of a powerful new chapter in the global electronic music landscape.

Building on years of international success and cultural influence, the label recognised the need for a name that reflects its evolution and individuality. The transition to Intercord Records gives the label a clear, unified identity – dynamic, international, and true to its dance roots.

“Intercord signals how far we’ve come and the next step in our evolution,” says Alexander Neipp, VP Marketing, Intercord Records. “We’ve built incredible momentum over the past seven years, and now we’re giving that success its own unmistakable identity – a brand that belongs to our artists, our community, and our future.”

While born from the Universal Music family, the Intercord name carries its own rich history. Originally founded in 1966, the brand helped bring electronic icons like Depeche Mode, Erasure, Yazoo, and Moby to German audiences. Intercord Records will continue to be a stronghold for dance and electronic music in Germany and Central Europe – while expanding its reach with a growing roster of genre-blending artists including Leony, Ray Dalton, Alle Farben and several new signings to be unveiled soon.

By reviving the Intercord name, the label is not only reclaiming an important part of Germany’s music history but also projecting it into the future. From licensing partnerships with Mute Records in the 1980s to shaping the Euro-dance sound of the 90s, Intercord’s influence on global dance culture runs deep. Now, under Universal Music Group, it’s poised to redefine what a 21st-century label can be – agile, artist-centric, and culture-driven.

The move comes after the label’s most successful year to date, achieving record-breaking chart-successes. Importantly, Intercord Records will continue to be powered by the same team – the dedicated A&Rs and product managers who champion every release.

With over 40 billion partner streams and a catalogue that defines modern dance music, the label’s influence runs through the core of the global electronic scene. From breaking out Mau P with “Drugs From Amsterdam”, to propelling on the world stage James Hype’s “Ferrari” and a successful string of chart-topping anthems like MEDUZA’s “Piece Of Your Heart”, HUGEL’s “I Adore You”, and Topic’s “Breaking Me”, their releases have shaped the sound of dance floors worldwide and helped launch the next generation of international talent.

“We built Virgin Records Germany into a powerhouse for electronic music. Now it’s time for the next step,” says Magnus Textor, VP A&R Intercord Records & VP A&R CE Dance Electronic. “Intercord is the name that matches our identity, our ambition, and our vision. The same team, the same drive – but with a name that reflects the success we’ve already built and the global impact we’re reaching for together with our artists.

Tom Bohne, President Music Domestic Universal Music Germany, says on the rebrand: “Intercord Records represents both evolution and continuity – a label deeply rooted in Germany’s musical heritage yet always pushing forward in sound and culture. This new chapter is a statement of confidence in our team, our artists, and the future of dance music in Europe and beyond.”

The new Intercord identity will take centre stage at Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) this October. The label will host its annual Intercord Mixer at Soho House / Cecconi’s – now a cornerstone of ADE’s industry calendar – featuring ten back-to-back performances from major DJs and rising stars, surprise guests, and a first look at the new visuals and branding.

With this new chapter unfolding, Intercord Records is focused on building long-term growth, international collaborations, and an even stronger presence across Europe, the UK, the US, and beyond.

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