EMI CMG will release two soundtracks of songs inspired by one of the year’s most anticipated films, a live action adaptation of the best-selling C.S. Lewis classic, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. The projects are being produced through a partnership between EMI CMG’s parent company, EMI Music, and the film’s producers, Walt Disney Studios and Walden Media, according to a joint press release.
The film will be released worldwide on Dec. 9. The first project, a soundtrack of original songs inspired by the film featuring Christian artists is scheduled to be released on Sept. 27. The artists who will be participating on this album include:
· Steven Curtis Chapman
· tobyMac
· Nichole Nordeman
· Jars of Clay
· newsboys
· Jeremy Camp
· Rebecca St. James
· Chris Tomlin
· Delirious?
· Bethany Dillon
· David Crowder Band
This album will be followed by a soundtrack featuring mainstream pop and rock artists, which is scheduled to be released on Oct. 25. “EMI CMG’s partnership with Disney and Walden Media holds an unprecedented visibility and marketing opportunity for the participating artists,” said Bill Hearn, EMI CMG President and CEO. “Disney and Walden Media have been hands on partners in the creative process for this recording. Their passion for the music is contributing to an extensive marketing campaign for this soundtrack, integrating it seamlessly into the marketing effort surrounding the film’s release.” In addition, EMI CMG Distribution and Walt Disney Records (WDR) also announced a partnership that will give CBA retailers access to Walt Disney Records’ vast library of family-friendly audio products. “Walt Disney has created movie classics and beloved animated characters that have been loved from generation to generation, and with Baby Einstein, Playhouse Disney and the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia, Disney continues to be the most recognized and sought-after brand in family entertainment,” said Rich Peluso, president of EMI CMG Distribution.
“We are pleased that Disney has allowed us to partner with them in bringing selected content to the CBA market.” Added Robert Marick, Sr. Vice President and General Manager, Walt Disney Records, “We are pleased to have EMI CMG deliver our valuable brand to serve the Christian retail marketplace with our diverse line of music and products. EMI CMG holds an impressive track record in the marketing and distribution of children’s products to Christian retail and shares our goal of offering consumers quality choices in family friendly entertainment. Our new partnership will augment WDR’s existing distribution agreement with Universal Music & Video Distribution. We are excited for the immense opportunity that lies ahead and we welcome EMI CMG’s experienced sales, marketing and distribution team.”
