Questions about Polydor Records

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When was Polydor Records founded and by whom?

Polydor Records was founded on the 2nd of April 1913 by German Polyphon-Musikwerke AG in Leipzig. The label originated from Firma Brachhausen & Riesener which began as a mechanical music box manufacturer in 1887.

What major companies acquired ownership of Polydor Records during the 20th century?

Siemens & Halske purchased Deutsche Grammophon including Polydor in 1941. Siemens later formed a joint venture with Philips in 1962 creating the Grammophon-Philips Group which became the parent entity for Polydor.

Which famous artists released albums through Polydor Records in the late 1960s?

Polydor released albums by John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, Cream, The Who, Jimi Hendrix, Bee Gees, and Eric Clapton throughout the late 1960s. These acts established the label as a popular music brand after World War II.

How did Polydor Records expand its operations into international markets like Japan and the United States?

Polydor Records initially launched in Japan in 1926 as Nippon Polydor before rebranding multiple times during World War II. The label opened a US branch in 1969 but gained real presence only after purchasing James Brown's recording contract and back catalogue in 1971.

When was Fascination Records launched and what type of music does it focus on?

Polydor launched Fascination Records in 2006 dedicated to pop music where both Girls Aloud and Sophie Ellis-Bextor transferred. This new label also signed several pop acts from US label Hollywood Records including Demi Lovato and Jonas Brothers.

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