PolyGram

PolyGram

The PolyGram wordmark

PolyGram was a major music and film company, originally founded in 1962 as a joint venture between the Dutch company Philips and the German company Siemens. It became one of the largest global entertainment companies, known for its diverse roster of artists and its significant impact on the music industry.

History

PolyGram was established as a merger of the record operations of Philips and Siemens, which were respectively Philips Phonographische Industrie (PPI) and Deutsche Grammophon. The name "PolyGram" was derived from "poly" (many) and "gram" (record), reflecting its broad scope in the music industry.

In the 1970s and 1980s, PolyGram expanded its reach by acquiring several record labels, including Mercury Records, Island Records, and A&M Records. This expansion helped PolyGram become a dominant force in the music industry, with a diverse array of artists across various genres.

Music Industry Impact

PolyGram was known for its innovative marketing strategies and its ability to adapt to changing trends in the music industry. It was instrumental in the careers of many famous artists and bands, including ABBA, Bee Gees, and U2.

The company also played a significant role in the development of the compact disc (CD) format, which revolutionized the way music was consumed in the 1980s and 1990s. PolyGram's commitment to quality and innovation helped it maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving music market.

Film Division

In addition to its music operations, PolyGram also ventured into the film industry. It established PolyGram Filmed Entertainment, which produced and distributed a number of successful films, including "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "The Usual Suspects". The film division was known for its focus on quality storytelling and its ability to attract top talent.

Acquisition and Legacy

In 1998, PolyGram was acquired by Seagram, which merged it with Universal Music Group. This acquisition marked the end of PolyGram as an independent entity, but its legacy continued through the artists and films it helped bring to prominence.

Today, PolyGram is remembered as a pioneering force in the entertainment industry, with a lasting impact on both music and film.

Related pages

• Philips
• Siemens
• Universal Music Group
• Compact disc