The Rolling Stones Dump EMI

The long-term, worldwide contract with the most popular rock group in EMI’s history, has moved over to Universal Records. The agreement between the Stones and EMI ended in March, ending a partnership that lasted 31 years.

The new deal ensures that Universal will release the group’s next recordings, as well as take over the rights to the Rolling Stones catalog. Universal also expects to put out the group’s earlier music in digital format.

In a statement, the group said, "Universal are forward thinking, creative and hands-on music people. We really look forward to working with them."

For EMI, the rock band’s departure is a significant loss. During the course of recent years, the label has had to bid farewell to major names, like Sir Paul McCartney and Radiohead.

Among some of the best-known musicians to have switched to the Universal label are Elton John and U2.