Wolverhampton producer launches new record label with Warner Music

Two-time BMA Producer of the Year and Studio of the Year Gavin Monaghan says his new label Magic Garden Recordings was created with the intention of changing the landscape of British music.

"We need to get Britain back on its feet, musically speaking," he says. "Start going out to gigs again, buy work by new artists, download music and spread the joy!" 

Monaghan, who was described by the BBC as “commanding massive respect worldwide”, says it’s “just the beginning” of what promises to be a bumper year for his in-demand Wolverhampton studio, Magic Garden.

The studio has contributed millions to the British economy.

“We’re hugely excited to have Magic Garden Recordings on board and feel that with Gavin’s experience in the industry and his musical genius, it’s going to be a staggering success,” Revolver Records’ Daniel Morris says.

With over 30 gold and platinum records and a reputation for boundless energy, Monaghan is known for his work with Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley estate, Duane Eddy estate, Grace Jones, Editors, Paolo Nutini, The Twang, The Holloways, Ocean Colour Scene, Tony Christie, The Cult, Sly and Robbie, Jimmy Somerville, Aswad, Elvis Costello, Terry Hall, Kirsty MacColl, Meredith Brooks, Goldblade, Nizlopi, Scott Matthews, Lemmy, The Destroyers, Stone, Headshrinkers, The Sherlocks, The Blinders, and JAWS, among hundreds of others.

In May, Monaghan’s first band MAMA ft. Antonella – with renowned lyricist and singer Antonella Gambotto-Burke – releases its first album, which has already been described by critics as “phenomenal” and “a riveting stone killer”. 'Some Love' and 'Morning', their iridescent new singles, have been featured on Radio X and other British stations and are now beginning to hit US airwaves.

Monaghan’s music can also be heard in innumerable advertisements and multimillion dollar productions ranging from the Austin Powers and Twilight (film) franchises to American Horror Story, Gangs of London, Luther, and Peaky Blinders.

One of his aims is to put British music back on the map. “There's just so much talent here, it's blinding,” Monaghan says. “While I love music the world over, I have particular respect for local artists because it isn't easy.”

Monaghan, thrilled by the performance of 'Tongue', his label's first single by indie sensation The Lydons, advises artists everywhere to send him their music, irrespective of age, gender, genre, or nationality: “Knock me out with your genius!”