GeneLab’s artistes will not have their contracts with GMM Music terminated prematurely, despite the abrupt departure of the label’s ex-boss Ohm Puntapol in early March.
In a joint statement released on 20 April, GMM Music says it will, however, grant management rights to Kruengkao (or ‘half-nine’ in Thai), a non-affiliated entity that is headed by Ohm.
This means that bands like Three Man Down, Tilly Birds, TaitosmitH and The Darkest Romance – as well as those of its affiliate 19 – will be managed by Kreungkao, with the label (and Ohm) “investing directly” in the bands.
Kreungkao will “participate in music production and handle promotions” for the artistes, until the end of their contracts with GMM Music.
The fate of GeneLab bands became uncertain after Ohm’s departure. In the immediate aftermath, bands like Three Man Down and TaitosmitH hinted at parting ways with GMM Music to follow Ohm (who was the frontman of the now-disbanded Cocktail).
In its latest statement GMM Music says it retains the rights to all music previously produced by GeneLab and 19 acts. Royalties and revenue will also continued to be shared with the artiste for as long as their contracts last under GMM Music.
However, new music produced under Kreungkao’s management will be owned by the artistes.
GMM Music will also work with Kreungkao to “jointly handle” artiste bookings, and the acts will continue to have “opportunities” to perform at GMM Music events and festivals.
In addition, Three Man Down, Tilly Birds and TaitosmitH have also confirmed at least one more large-scale concert – organised by GMM Show – for the rest of their contracts.
GMM Music does not reveal the remaining duration of their contracts.
In separate statements, GeneLab’s major acts also confirmed the new management agreements.
Krit from Three Man Down says it will not be terminating its contracts with GMM Music, and confirms its upcoming concert at Rajamangala Stadium will be organised by GMM Show.
Tilly Birds’ Billy says the “transition is another step in our growth”, adding: “The band’s goals have never changed, but today we are clearer about who we are and where we want to take our music.”
TaitosmitH frontman Jai adds: “The success of a band doesn’t depend on just one factor, but on the continuous collaboration of many understanding parties. this has led us to discuss the matter with GMM Music, resulting in the best possible outcome.”
