The Orchard, a subsidiary of Sony Music, announced the acquisition of OniMusic, a leading Brazilian Christian music label, distributor and digital intelligence company. The deal marks a “landmark expansion into the Latin American gospel market, one of the fastest-growing segments in the global music industry,” according to a press release.
Founded in 2004 by Nelson and Christie Tristão in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, OniMusic evolved from an indie distribution company into a full-service, faith-oriented service representing more than 120 artists. The label’s roster includes Gabriela Rocha, Nívea Soares, Rodolfo Abrantes, Isaías Saad, Morada, Cassiane, Gabi Sampaio, Brave, Coletivo Candiero and JesusCopy Music.
“For years, I have followed OniMusic’s work with great admiration. Over the past two decades, Nelson has built a team, a body of expertise, and an impeccable reputation,” said Sylvia Medeiros, senior vp of The Orchard Brazil, in a statement. “His competence and vocation have merged to create a business with both purpose and incredible results. The Orchard will provide OniMusic with all the infrastructure it needs to grow even further.”
Nelson added, “Everything we’ve built over more than two decades has always been centered on the artist, with relationships grounded in trust, friendship, and respect for everyone’s calling — values that have always been, and continue to be, the foundation of everything we do. This new partnership with The Orchard allows us to stay true to that identity while also taking an important step forward in our growth, opening new opportunities in Brazil and internationally that will directly benefit our roster.”
According to the press release, in Brazil, the worship-driven genre experienced an average annual listener growth of 44% on Spotify between 2015 and 2020 and now accounts for roughly 20% of the country’s total music revenue. — Isabela Raygoza
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