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Wolverhampton producer launches new record label with Warner Music

Wolverhampton-based multiplatinum producer Gavin Monaghan joins forces with Revolver Records and Warner Music.

By contributor Michael Stinton
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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.

Tony Christie, who has sold over 10 million records, wth Gavin Monaghan at Magic Garden
Tony Christie, who has sold over 10 million records, wth Gavin Monaghan at Magic Garden

The studio has contributed millions to the British economy.

Courtney Taylor-Taylor of The Dandy Warhols backstage with Gavin Monaghan
Courtney Taylor-Taylor of The Dandy Warhols backstage with Gavin Monaghan

“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.

Gavin Monaghan backstage with Ash Sheehan, drummer for Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath and The Twang
Gavin Monaghan backstage with Ash Sheehan, drummer for Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath and The Twang

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.

Multiplatinum producer Gavin Monaghan with his first signing, Stourbridge sensation The Lydons
Multiplatinum producer Gavin Monaghan with his first signing, Stourbridge sensation The Lydons

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.”

Gavin Monaghan with MAMA ft. Antonella lyricist and singer Antonella Gambotto-Burke and Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant
Gavin Monaghan with MAMA ft. Antonella lyricist and singer Antonella Gambotto-Burke and Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant

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!”

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