Global Records is charting a new course. The company defines independent music success. This is happening in Central and Eastern Europe. Ambitious growth is the key. A multi-vertical strategy drives this success.
Global Records projects strong growth. This is for 2026. It expects double-digit increases. The company earned about €65 million. This was in 2025. That’s roughly $75 million. This marks a major leap. Revenues were $17 million in 2022. They hit $54 million by 2024. Global Records expects impressive expansion. Its revenues could grow fivefold in four years.
Building an Entertainment Ecosystem
Founder Ștefan Lucian leads the business. He calls it an “advanced, multi-vertical entertainment ecosystem”. Global Records expanded beyond recorded music. It now includes publishing. Live events are a major focus. Brand partnerships are also key. Film and TV placements add revenue streams. This integrated approach diversifies income. It creates new opportunities for artists.
The Beach, Please! Phenomenon
The Beach, Please! urban music festival is a prime example. Global Records co-founded it. The festival took place in Romania. It attracted over 500,000 attendees in 2025. The busiest day saw 155,000 people. Organizers state it is one of Europe’s largest festivals. Global superstars graced its stages. Travis Scott, A$AP Rocky, and Wiz Khalifa performed. Lucian described it as speaking directly to young people. It quickly became a major event.
Artist Ownership and Development
Artist development is central to Global Records’ mission. The company emphasizes artist ownership. This model fosters long-term careers. They launched the Global Records Academy. This program is inspired by K-pop success. Emerging artists receive intensive training. They work with coaches and specialists. The goal is refining sound and performance skills. It helps artists shape a unique identity. Real-world challenges prepare them for success. This focus benefits every artist. It builds a strong, popular music catalog.
The Entrepreneurial Vision
Ștefan Lucian is the driving force. He is a visionary entrepreneur. Lucian started small. He grew up in Costinești, Romania. He opened an internet café at age 12. Later, he discovered artist INNA. The song “Hot” launched his entertainment career. He founded Global Records in 2008. Lucian believes the future is human. Technology should enhance creativity. It should not replace it. He stresses authenticity. Artist rights are paramount.
Central and Eastern Europe’s Rise
Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is a key growth area. The region is one of the youngest globally. Audiences embrace new music rapidly. They engage deeply with artists. Global Records aims to lead this market. It is the biggest independent music company in CEE. Many international players overlook this region. They group markets together. Global Records, however, understands local nuances. Romania itself shows strong music market growth.
A Multi-Faceted Business
Global Records is more than a record label. It is a significant business enterprise. In May 2024, it acquired Honua Music Group. This US-based publisher works with top artists. Global Records also expanded to Germany. Believe acquired a 25% stake in the company in July 2024. This partnership supports their digital music strategy. It also aids artist development. The company manages popular artists. INNA, Minelli, and Carla’s Dreams are included.
Future Outlook
Global Records is redefining independent music success. Its multi-vertical strategy is working well. The company anticipates continued strong performance. It leverages new technologies. It prioritizes artist well-being and ownership. This approach positions them for future wins. Their news signals exciting times for CEE music. The business is set for new achievements.
