GIANCARLO SCIAMA

Release date: December 2024

Giancarlo continues to provide his services to Warner Records on Neil Young releases, in support of the release of On The Beach 50th Anniversary 1LP.

This special 140g clear vinyl pressing, celebrates the milestone birthday of Neil's classic 1974 album. This was the follow-up to Harvest, and Neil's fifth studio album, featuring musicians from Crazy Horse, The Band, as well as David Crosby and Graham Nash.

In addition to overseeing the international announcement of the release, Giancarlo worked closely with the team at Warner Records in Los Angeles to deliver a complete set of promotional and marketing tools, for roll-out to all Warner Music's Catalogue teams and Licensees around the world.

Timing: November 2024

Consulting for Universal Music Enterprises, Giancarlo helped project manage a new 2024 Remaster of Cat Stevens's first ever live album, to be released exclusively on coloured vinyl for Record Store Day Black Friday 2024.

Recorded at Nakano Sun Plaza in Tokyo on 22nd June, 1974, on the Japanese leg of the Bamboozle World Tour that supported the release of Buddha and the Chocolate Box, Saturnight was originally issued by A&M Records only in Japan.

The LP finally sees its first ever international release on November 22, 2024, in participating independent RSD stores only.

Pressed on limited edition 180g orange splatter vinyl, Saturnight is packaged for the first time in a gatefold jacket with a printed inner sleeve, and features lyrics and new retrospective notes by Hallam Kite, tour manager Carl Miller and bass player Bruce Lynch.

As ever, Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, working hand-in-hand with Yusuf’s team to oversee the production of all audio and artwork assets, the product development, and closely liaising with audio engineers. Furthermore, Giancarlo ensured the efficient flow of information to the key shareholders within UMG, both US and International.

Timing: October 2024

As A&R Consultant for Universal Strategic Marketing on Queen, Giancarlo has been very proud to work on the QUEEN I Collectors Edition reissue.

Originally released in 1973, Queen's groundbreaking debut album, Queen, introduced the world to a band that would become one of the very biggest names of all.

Now remixed, remastered and expanded, and presented in a 6CD+1LP box set, as well as further derivative formats, QUEEN I Collector’s Edition features the original album, newly mixed form the multi-track masters with an additional song ("Mad The Swine") restored to the album tracklisting, as well as demos, studio sessions, live and broadcast radio performances.

Accompanied by a 108 page book featuring rare photos and previously unseen memorabilia, the QUEEN I Collectors Edition delivers another in-depth experiences of a classic Queen studio album.

Additional to the boxed set, Giancarlo also oversaw delivery of the 2CD Deluxe Edition, and limited edition D2C exclusive products in the form of a picture disc LP, a cassette, and a special replica press kit.

The project saw Giancarlo liaising with album designers, Queen's studio / audio team, Queen Management, as well as internal Universal Marketing, Production and D2C teams.

Timing: September 2024

As part of his work overseeing International Marketing for Neil Young's catalogue releases, Giancarlo has been very proud to work on the release of Neil Young's latest deep dive into his vault, Archives Vol. III.

Covering the 1976-1987 period of his journey, the 17CD boxed set is one of the most extensive anthologies in his recorded history.

Archives Vol. III features 198 total musical tracks, including 121 previously unreleased versions of live, studio, mixes, or edits, and 15 previously unreleased songs, available here for the first time ever.

A double vinyl LP only set titled Takes is also available on release, and presents a 16 track compilation featuring one track from each of the 16 out of the 17 CD’s in the Archives Vol. III Box Set. It includes 3 unreleased songs and 12 previously unreleased versions and will be the only vinyl edition to feature these songs.

In addition to overseeing the international announcement and marketing of the release, Giancarlo also worked closely with the team at Reprise Records in Los Angeles to deliver a complete set of promotional and marketing tools, for roll-out to all Warner Music's Catalogue teams and Licensees around the world.

Timing: July 2024

Giancarlo continued to consult on behalf of Universal Music Recordings to help project manage a new 2024 Remaster of Cat Stevens' fifth Island Records album.

Originally released in 1973, Foreigner showed enormous artistic ambition and courage with Cat boldly stepping away from his signature acoustic sound in order to freely explore the heat and love of the soul and R&B genres. Recorded in the heart of Jamaica, his fearlessness was rewarded with the album reaching No. 3 on both the U.S. and U.K. album charts.

Foreigner (2024 Remaster) is available on vinyl for the first time since its original release, on both 180-gram black vinyl and limited edition 180-gram blue vinyl, with a replica 12” lyric card insert. The blue vinyl pressing is exclusively via Yusuf and Universal's D2C stores, while the album also returns to CD for the first time since its reissue in 2000, complete with a 16-page booklet.

The initial production run of the vinyl and CD versions feature the super rare blue front cover, originally released only on the original A&M pressings in 1973.

As ever, Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, working hand-in-hand with Yusuf’s team to oversee the production of all audio and artwork assets, the product development, and closely liaising with audio engineers. Furthermore, Giancarlo ensured the efficient flow of information to the key shareholders within UMG, both UK and International.

Timing: June 2024

As part of the celebrations around the 40th Anniversary of Prince and the Revolution's landmark album, Purple Rain, the Prince Estate and Warner Records were proud to release a fabulous new ATMOS mix of Prince's greatest selling album.

The album was meticulously mixed from the original multi-track master tapes by Prince’s protege and Best Engineered Grammy nominee Chris James, who has produced a truly unique and immersive sonic experience.

An audiophile Blu-ray release is due to follow later in 2024.

In addition to coordinating directly with Chris James, Giancarlo had the privilege of working closely with the Prince Estate team, as well as internal teams at Warner Records, and more widely with Warner Music's international catalogue departments around the roll-out of the release and its subsequent marketing campaign.

PRINCE: DIAMONDS AND PEARLS

Timing: October 2023

Prince and the New Power Generation’s DIAMONDS AND PEARLS was originally released in 1991 was a global smash, generating no fewer than six international singles. It is Prince's biggest selling album in the UK. The New Power Generation was Prince’s first band since the Revolution to share billing on the cover and saw him take a new direction. Featuring the singles “Gett Off”, “Cream”, “Diamonds And Pearls”, and more, this is the album that saw Prince launch himself into a new decade on a wave of commercial success.

On October 27, 2023, NPG Records and Paisley Park Entertainment, in partnership with Warner Records, are to reissue D&P via all major physical, digital and streaming partners, with the timeless album remastered for the very first time. The reissue suite is comprised of the following formats:

• Super Deluxe Edition (7CD+Blu-ray / 12LP+Blu-ray / audio-only download and streaming)

• Deluxe Edition (2CD / 4LP 180g vinyl / download and streaming)

• Remastered album (1CD / 180g Clear Vinyl / Audiophile Blu-ray / download and streaming)

The Super Deluxe Edition represents the first deep dive into Prince’s 90s material, and includes a total of 75 audio tracks – of which 47 are previously unreleased – across 7x CDs and 12x 180g vinyl discs.

In addition, both CD and vinyl sets also boast a brand new Blu-ray which features 3x previously unreleased live performances in stunning HD video: the complete Live At Glam Slam (Jan 1992) concert, the Special Olympics Show and Soundcheck (Jul 1991), plus the Diamonds And Pearls Video Collection (1992).

DIAMONDS AND PEARLS will also released on Deluxe Edition 2CD / 4LP / digital formats (featuring the remastered album, plus a collection of Promo versions and B-Sides), and as a stand-alone Remastered album on 2CD and digital formats, as well as on limited edition 2LP 180g Clear Vinyl (while stocks last).

A special DIAMONDS AND PEARLS 7” Singles box set was also released exclusively via the Prince Store, offering fans the chance to own brand new pressings of all 6x official D&P singles, plus for the very first time, a brand new exclusive 7” single of the previously unreleased tracks “Alice Through The Looking Glass” b/w "Horny Pony (Version 2)".

Following his successful project management of Nothing Compares 2 U , Piano & A Microphone 1983, Originals, 1999, and Sign O' The Times, Giancarlo continued in his role as Warner Music's point person for all things Prince.

Overseeing the international launch, Giancarlo has liaised with the Prince Estate, Sony Music and Warner Music teams to develop the product suite and release strategy, and to formulate a complete international launch and roll-out strategy, comprising the creation of marketing assets, as well as managing international press interviews with Prince Estate partner Charles Spicer, archivist Duane Tudahl, and Prince’s band members Tony M, Michael Bland, Tommy Barbarella, Rosie Gaines, plus sound engineer Michael Koppelman and photographer / video director Randee St. Nicholas.

Timing: December 2022

As part of his work overseeing International Marketing for Neil Young's catalogue releases, Giancarlo has been very proud to work on the 50th Anniversary Edition reissue of Neil Young's timeless classic, Harvest.

Originally released in March 1972, Harvest features some of Neil Young's most beloved songs including "Old Man", "Heart Of Gold" and "Alabama". It is widely considered to be one of the seminal LPs of all time and is a permanent fixture in the music media's Best Albums Of All Time lists.

The 2022 reissue appears in two special 50th Anniversary Edition formats on three CDs and two Blu-rays, or two LPs, a 7" single and two Blu-rays. Each set brings together the classic 1972 album (remastered on vinyl), three album outtakes (of which two are previously unreleased), and a Neil's BBC In Concert appearance from 1971 (on audio and video). The reissue is rounded out with the fabulous Harvest Time, a previously unseen original two hour documentary made in 1971 which has sat in Neil's archive until now.

In addition to overseeing the international announcement and marketing of the release, Giancarlo also worked closely with the team at Reprise Records in Los Angeles to deliver a complete set of promotional and marketing tools, for roll-out to all Warner Music's Catalogue teams and Licensees around the world.

Timing: December 2022

As A&R Consultant for Universal Music Enterprises on Cat Stevens, Giancarlo was asked by Team Yusuf to help deliver a new 50th Anniversary Remaster reissue of Catch Bull At Four.

Originally released in 1972, Catch Bull At Four saw the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens deliver his fourth studio LP for Island Records, following up on the global hit records Mona Bone Jakon, Tea for the Tillerman, and Teaser and the Firecat.

The 2022 Remaster appears on LP (in both black and limited edition orange 180g vinyl), and on CD. Having not appeared on vinyl since its original 1970s pressing, the artwork had to be completely rebuilt digitally which saw a completely new CD design delivered by Yusuf's design team.

The original Island Records stereo master recording was sent to Yusuf's mastering team who delivered its first update since 2000, ensuring the best possible audio quality for this new 50th Anniversary Edition.

The project saw Giancarlo liaising with Yusuf's album designer, and remastering engineer team, as well as Yusuf's management team and Universal's internal A&R, Marketing, and Production teams.

Timing: November 2022

As A&R Consultant for Universal Strategic Marketing on Queen, Giancarlo has been very proud to work on The Miracle Collectors Edition reissue.

Originally released in 1991, The Miracle delivered some of the band's biggest hits of their latter period, including "The Miracle", "The Invisible Man", "Breakthru" and "I Want It All".

The 2022 Collectors Edition appears in a multi-disc boxed set which is comprised of five CDs, one LP, one Blu-ray, and a DVD. The reissue boasts a ton of content, including the special Long Lost Original LP Cut on 180g vinyl (which features "Too Much Love Will Kill You" in its original position in the track sequence), as well as previously unreleased studio recordings, B-sides and rarities, previously unreleased instrumentals, radio interviews, and The Miracle Videos.

Accompanied by a 76 page booklet featuring new liner notes, and a complete set of printed memorabilia, The Miracle Collectors Edition delivers the most in-depth experiences of a Queen studio album to date.

Additional to the boxed set, Giancarlo also oversaw delivery of the 2CD Deluxe Edition, and limited edition D2C exclusive products in the form of a picture disc LP, a cassette, and a special replica press kit.

The project saw Giancarlo liaising with album designers, Queen's studio / audio team, the Blu-ray and DVD authoring house, Queen Management, as well as internal Universal Marketing, Production and D2C teams.

Timing: November 2021

Giancarlo continued to consult on behalf of Universal Music Catalogue to help project manage a new Cat Stevens 50th anniversary campaign, this time celebrating his third Island Records album, TEASER AND THE FIRECAT.

Originally released in September 1971, TEASER AND THE FIRECAT features Cat Stevens' classic songs "Moonshadow", "The Wind" and "Peace Train" and it is widely considered to be a seminal work.

The 2021 reissue appears in a special Super Deluxe Edition featuring 4CDs, a Blu-ray, 2x LPs, a 7" single, and two 12" books. The set brings together a brand new 50th Anniversary Remaster of the album (remastered at Abbey Road Studios by Geoff Pesche, and overseen by legendary producer Paul Samwell-Smith), as well as a disc of rare and previously unreleased studio and rehearsal recordings, plus two further discs featuring previously unreleased live material. The Blu-ray features 21 previously unreleased broadcast TV performances from 1971 as well as HD Audio (24bit/48kHz) versions of the 50th Anniversary Remaster.

The Super Deluxe also boasts a 120 page hardback book, plus a 48 page 12" soft cover replica of the 1972 TEASER AND THE FIRECAT illusion book. The contents are beautifully housed in a lavish cloth-covered clamshell box. A competitively priced 4CD+Blu-ray version with book in a rigid 12" slipcase is also available, as are a 2CD Deluxe Edition, as well as a remastered 1CD and 1LP.

Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, working hand-in-hand with Yusuf’s team to oversee the identification and sourcing of all audio and video assets. Giancarlo also oversaw the product development, and closely liaising with audio engineers, and the Blu-ray authoring house to deliver all masters, and worked in tandem with YES Design Studio who oversaw the designs of all four physical formats. Furthermore, Giancarlo ensured the efficient flow of information to the key shareholders within UMG, both UK and International.

PRINCE: DO ME, BABY (DEMO)

Timing: October 2021

Prince’s “Do Me, Baby (Demo)” was another surprise release to Prince fans around the world. Released as a digital single, and announced as an exclusive 7” single and limited edition numbered cassette via the Prince Store in October 2021, it features the hitherto unknown 1979 Demo version of the classic Controversy album track. A must for all proper fans!

Release date: October 2021

From Summer 2021, following the restructuring of Warner Music’s catalogue division, Giancarlo was invited to undertake international duties on Neil Young releases.

The release of Carnegie Hall 1970 marked the first of the Neil Young Official Bootleg Series. The recording was made on December 4th, 1970, and its official release saw the album receive critical acclaim , and a Top 20 chart position in Germany.

Giancarlo looks forward to helping WMG with further Neil Young releases in the future…

Timing: Record Store Day, Drop #2 (July) 2021

Continuing in his role as Universal Music Catalogue's A&R Consultant for Yusuf / Cat Stevens, Giancarlo helped UMC and Team Yusuf to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Cat Stevens soundtrack album that never was. Liaising with artist management, the record label, and Paramount Pictures, Giancarlo helped to realise a long sought after release.

Harold and Maude: Songs by Cat Stevens sees the first ever official Island Records release of the nine Cat Stevens songs that graced the 1971 Hal Ashby cult movie, Harold and Maude. Following the exact running order as they appear in the movie, this collection features seven songs from Mona Bone Jakon and Tea for the Tillerman, plus two original non-album tracks ("Don't Be Shy" and "If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out").

This limited edition record is presented on both orange and yellow 180g coloured vinyl, features brand new illustration artwork throughout, and this new compilation has been warmly received by record fans around the world. 

The Paramount Pictures film Harold and Maude celebrates its 50th anniversary in December 2021.

Timing: April 2021

Early in 2021, the Prince Estate announced a creative collaboration with Paris St. Germain, one of Europe’s premier football clubs.

While primarily focused on merchandise, the collaboration also saw the release of a limited edition 7” single of Prince’s 1989 track, “Partyman”, now accompanied on the B-side with a previously unreleased live recording of The Time’s “Cool”, recorded at Le Zénith in June 2014.

Giancarlo worked with the Prince Estate, PSG and WMG teams to ensure the successful delivery of this record within stringent deadlines.

The 7” is available exclusively via PSG’s online and physical stores and the Prince Store.

Timing: December 2020

Giancarlo was hired in late 2019 by Universal Music Catalogue to help project manage a Cat Stevens 50th anniversary campaign, celebrating his first two Island Records albums, MONA BONE JAKON and TEA FOR THE TILLERMAN.

Originally released in November 1970, TEA FOR THE TILLERMAN is Cat Stevens' best selling album, and is a regular feature in major publications' Best Albums Of All Time list (most recently at #205 on Rolling Stone's 2020 update). Featuring the classic songs "Where Do The Children Play?", "Wild World" and "Father And Son", it's easy to see why the album commands a special place in so many music fans' hearts.

The 2020 reissue appeared in a special Super Deluxe Edition featuring 5CDs, a Blu-ray, and 2x LPs. The set brings together a brand new 2020 Remaster of the album (remastered at Abbey Road Studios by Geoff Pesche, and overseen by legendary producer Paul Samwell-Smith), plus a new 2020 Mix of the album (by David Hefti and overseen by Yusuf himself), Yusuf's brand new 2020 reinterpretations of the entire album (TEA FOR THE TILLERMAN²), as well as a disc of rare and previously unreleased studio recordings, and another of rare and previously unreleased live material. The Blu-ray featured rare broadcast TV performances from 1970/1 as well as HD Audio (24bit/48kHz) versions of the 2020 Remaster and 2020 Mix.

The Super Deluxe also boasts a 100 page book, plus printed collectors ephemera, and is beautifully housed in a lavish cloth-covered clamshell box. Other formats included a 2CD Deluxe Edition, as well as a remastered 1CD and 1LP.

Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, working hand-in-hand with Yusuf’s team to oversee the identification and sourcing of all audio and video assets. Giancarlo also oversaw the product development, and closely liaising with audio engineers, and the Blu-ray authoring house to deliver all masters, and worked in tandem with YES Design Studio who oversaw the designs of all four physical formats. Furthermore, Giancarlo ensured the efficient flow of information to the key shareholders within UMG, both UK and International.

Timing: December 2020

Giancarlo was hired in late 2019 by Universal Music Catalogue to help project manage a Cat Stevens 50th anniversary campaign, celebrating his first two Island Records albums, MONA BONE JAKON and TEA FOR THE TILLERMAN.

Originally released in March 1970, MONA BONE JAKON was Cat Stevens first album following his initial pop stardom and a year convalescing from tuberculosis, during which time he decided that the popstar life was not for him. He spent the time of his recuperation beginning what would become a lifelong spiritual journey, and happened to write 30 of the best songs that music has known, 11 of which became MONA BONE JAKON.

The 2020 reissue appeared in a special Super Deluxe Edition featuring 4CDs, a Blu-ray, and 2x LPs. The set brings together a brand new 2020 Remaster of the album (remastered at Abbey Road Studios by Geoff Pesche, and overseen by legendary producer Paul Samwell-Smith), plus a new 2020 Mix of the album (by David Hefti and overseen by Yusuf himself), as well as a disc of rare and previously unreleased studio recordings, and another of rare and previously unreleased live material. The Blu-ray featured rare broadcast TV performances from 1970 as well as HD Audio (24bit/48kHz) versions of the 2020 Remaster and 2020 Mix.

The Super Deluxe also boasts a 100 page book, plus printed collectors ephemera, and is beautifully housed in a lavish cloth-covered clamshell box.

Other formats included a 2CD Deluxe Edition, as well as a remastered 1CD and 1LP.

Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, working hand-in-hand with Yusuf’s team to oversee the identification and sourcing of all audio and video assets. Giancarlo also oversaw the product development, and closely liaising with audio engineers, and the Blu-ray authoring house to deliver all masters, and worked in tandem with YES Design Studio who oversaw the designs of all four physical formats. Furthermore, Giancarlo ensured the efficient flow of information to the key shareholders within UMG, both UK and International.

PRINCE: SIGN O’ THE TIMES

Timing: September 2020

Arguably his greatest album of all, Prince’s SIGN O’ THE TIMES was originally released in 1987 to critical acclaim and quickly became a pillar in popular music culture. The album was Prince’s first post-Revolution and saw him take a new direction, and many biographers have argued that it represents the very pinnacle of his creative 80’s period. Featuring the singles “Sign O’ The TImes”, “I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man”, “U Got The Look”, and “If I Was Your Girlfriend”, this is the album that truly earned Prince his ‘genius’ status.

On September 25, 2020, The Prince Estate, in partnership with Warner Records, reissued SOTT via all major physical, digital and streaming partners, with the timeless album remastered for the very first time. The reissue suite comprised of the following formats:

· Super Deluxe Edition (8CD+DVD / 13LP+DVD / audio-only download and streaming)

· Deluxe Edition (3CD / 4LP 180g vinyl / download and streaming)

· Remastered album (1CD / 180g Purple Vinyl / download and streaming)

The Super Deluxe Edition represents the deepest dive to date into Prince’s legendary Vault, and includes a total of 92 audio tracks – of which 45 are previously unreleased studio tracks, plus a complete previously unreleased live performance – across 8x CDs and 13x 180g vinyl discs.

In addition, both CD and vinyl sets also boast a brand new DVD which contains another complete, previously unreleased concert from the Sign O’ The Times tour, recorded live at Stadium Galgenwaard in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

SIGN O’ THE TIMES was also released on Deluxe Edition 3CD / 4LP / digital formats (featuring the remastered album, plus a collection of Promo versions and B-Sides), and as a stand-alone Remastered album on 2CD and digital formats, as well as on limited edition 2LP 180g Purple Vinyl (while stocks last), and a special picture disc for Record Store Day 2020.

A special SIGN O’ THE TIMES 7” Singles box set was also released exclusively via the Prince Store, offering fans the chance to own brand new pressings of 4x official SOTT singles, as well as reissues of 2x 7” promos now in picture sleeves for the first time, plus for the very first time, a brand new exclusive 7” single of “Witness 4 The Prosecution” in both versions.

Following his successful project management of Nothing Compares 2 U , Piano & A Microphone 1983, Originals, and 1999, Giancarlo continued in his role as Project Director for this release.

Overseeing the international launch, Giancarlo liaised with the Prince Estate and Warner Music teams to develop the product suite and release strategy, and to formulate a complete international launch and roll-out strategy, comprising the creation of marketing assets, as well as managing international press interviews with Prince Estate archivist Michael Howe, and Prince’s band members Eric Leeds, Atlanta Bliss, Levi Seacer Jr., as well as Susannah Melvoin and engineer Susan Rogers.

The set was received in glowing terms by media and fans alike, and featured in many music publications “2020 Best Reissues Of The Year” lists.

Timing: June 2020

Giancarlo was hired in late 2019 by Universal Music Catalogue to help project manage a Cat Stevens 50th anniversary campaign, celebrating his first two Island Records albums, Mona Bone Jakon and Tea for the Tillerman.

As things have developed, this project has grown to include Yusuf’s new album, Tea for the Tillerman², a new recording and interpretation of the 11 songs that make up his iconic 1970 album.

Giancarlo took point on all A&R and artist relations issues, closely liaising with Yusuf’s team as well as the key shareholders within UMG, both UK and International.

Timing: June 2020

To accompany the announcement of the Super Deluxe Edition reissue of Sign O’ The Times, the Prince Estate and Warner Records released an exclusive Sign O’ The Times 7” boxset, available only via the Prince Store.

Pressed at Jack White’s Third Man Records plant in Detroit, the 7” set included four original 7” singles, two 7” promos, and one brand new 7” featuring the Vault tracks “Witness 4 The Prosecution (versions 1 and 2)”.

The box set was pressed in a super limited run of 1,987 units and sold out within 24 hours.

Timing: April 2020

Johnny Cash is one of music’s true legends and a titan in the music pantheon. While his recordings for Sun, Columbia and American have been well serviced over the years, his Mercury Records catalogue has been conspicuous in its absence in the reissue market.

With that in mind, Giancarlo in collaboration with his fellow consultant and former UMG SVP A&R, Bill Levenson, has put together a product suite proposal for Universal Strategic Marketing which was fully rationalised including content, estimates sales, and projected P&L. The project was green-lit in 2018 with releases scheduled for release in April 2020.

With Bill executing the A&R side of things, Giancarlo has overseen all other project components from briefing and liaising with the project’s designer, liaising with UMG’s strategic, legal, marketing and sales teams, as well as pulling together basic marketing components ahead of release.

With a new 20-track compilation, a Record Store Day Exclusive, a 180 gram 7LP vinyl album set, and a 7CD and digital album box featuring previously unreleased content, the project is expected to deliver some richly deserved profile to an important but under-served slice of Johnny Cash’s repertoire.

To say nothing of promising high seven-figure revenues for the artist and label, while maintaining a high level of profitability.

Timing: December 2019

Prince’s “I Feel For You” was a super cool surprise release to Prince fans around the world. Released as an exclusive 7” single via the Prince Store in December 2019, it featured the previously unreleased Acoustic Demo on its A-side, with the Album Version on the B-side.

Timing: November 2019

On October 27, 1982, Prince released the iconic album, 1999. MTV was fast becoming a key component in popular culture, and together with their innovative videos, the singles “1999”, “Little Red Corvette”, “Delirious”, and “Let’s Pretend We’re Married” took Prince to a new level of popularity at home and abroad. 

1999 represented the beginning of what many consider to be Prince’s most prolific artistic period, and the album went on to be certified for quadruple platinum sales in the US. Its success propelled Prince to superstar status and paved the way for his next project, the feature movie Purple Rain, and its Oscar-winning soundtrack album. 

On November 29, 2019, The Prince Estate, in partnership with Warner Records, reissued the Grammy-nominated 1999 reissue via all major physical, digital and streaming partners, with the timeless album remastered for the very first time. The product suite comprised of the following formats:  

·     Super Deluxe Edition (5CD+DVD / 10LP+DVD / audio-only download and streaming)

·     Deluxe Edition (2CD / 4LP 180g vinyl / download and streaming)

·     Remastered album (1CD / 180g Purple Vinyl / download and streaming)

The Super Deluxe Edition represents the deepest dive to date into Prince’s legendary Vault, and includes a total of 65 audio tracks – of which 35 are previously unreleased and entirely unheard – across 5x CDs and 10x 180g vinyl discs. 

It brings fans all the audio material that Prince released in and around 1982, as well as 24 tracks that he recorded between November 1981 and January 1983 but did not release at the time, and a complete live audio performance of the 1999 tour (recorded live in Detroit, MI on November 30, 1982).

In addition, both CD and vinyl sets also boast a brand new DVD which contains another complete, previously unreleased concert from the 1999 tour (recorded live at the midnight performance of his show in Houston, TX on December 29, 1982). 

1999 will also be released on Deluxe Edition 2CD / 4LP / digital formats (featuring the remastered album, plus a collection of Promo versions and B-Sides), and as a stand-alone Remastered album on CD and digital formats, as well as on limited edition 2LP 180g Purple Vinyl (while stocks last).

Following his successful project management of Nothing Compares 2 U , Piano & A Microphone 1983, and Originals, Giancarlo continued in his role as Project Director for this release.

Overseeing the international launch, Giancarlo liaised with the Prince Estate and Warner Music teams to formulate a complete international launch and roll-out strategy, comprising the creation of marketing assets, as well as managing international press interviews with Prince Estate archivist Michael Howe, and Prince’s band members Bobby Z. and Dez Dickerson.

The set was received in glowing terms by media and fans alike, and featured in many music publications “2019 Best Reissues Of The Year” lists.

Timing: June 2019

Following his successful project management of 2018’s Prince releases (Nothing Compares 2 U and Piano & A Microphone 1983), Giancarlo was asked by Warner Music Group and the Prince Estate to continue in his role as Project Director for the 2019 Vault album, ORIGINALS.

Overseeing the international launch, Giancarlo was tasked with liaising with the Prince Estate and Warner Music teams to formulate a complete international launch and roll-out strategy, comprising the creation of marketing assets not least of which was brand-new video material.

Working with WMG’s in-house video team, Giancarlo oversaw the creation of two new videos for the project: Manic Monday (featuring a new edit of previously unseen archival footage), and Holly Rock (a brand new animation video based on Prince’s own 90’s comic book).

Giancarlo also managed all international press interviews with The Family vocalist Susannah Melvoin, Paisley Park artist Jill Jones, Sunset Sound engineer Peggy McReary, and Prince Estate archivist Michael Howe.

The album release was rapturously received by media around the world, with Prince fans also loud in their praise of the quality of the music, and both WMG and The Prince Estate were satisfied with a very successful project.

Timing: Record Store Day (April) 2019 / July 2020

1985’s His Majesty’s Pop Life / The Purple Mix Club was originally a promo-only release in Japan, with just 500 records making it to market. 34 years later, Warner Music and the Prince Estate revisited this highly sought-after collectible as a Record Store Day exclusive reissue for RSD 2019.

Featuring exclusive versions of several tracks, this fan favourite was lapped up on its re-release, with 14,000 units released globally.

Warner Music Japan followed the following year, with a Japan-only CD release (also available via the Prince Store).

Timing: March 2019

The fourth phase of the Barry White: The 20th Century Recordings (1972-1979) product reissues comprises a suite of original album reissues by Barry White’s backing band, the Love Unlimited Orchestra, and his backing singers, Love Unlimited.

Given a stronger market demand for LUO (and a longer absence in the market of their original albums), Giancarlo and his colleagues have put together a complete 20th Century Records 7CD and digital album box set, as well as 180 gram LP reissues on their three key titles (Rhapsody In White, White Gold, and My Sweet Summer Suite).

Love Unlimited’s From A Girl’s Point Of View… and In Heat also benefit from 180 gram LP reissues.

Giancarlo has acted as Project Supervisor for the entire project, having conceived the product suite, liaising with the various teams at UMG (from the proposal of the project concept with a fully detailed and rationalised plan, through dealing with Legal, Licensing, Marketing, Publicity and Production teams), liaising directly with the Barry White Estate for their blessings, briefing the project’s Designer and overseeing all art approvals.

Timing: December 2018

To celebrate 40 years since CHIC’s breakout album C’est Chic, Warner Music Group asked Giancarlo to act as Project Supervisor for THE CHIC ORGANIZATION: 1977-1979.

A specially remastered CD / vinyl / digital album set, the box brings together CHIC’s first three albums along with Sister Sledge’s We Are Family (produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards) and a new and exclusive disc collating single edits and 12” mixes of the era.

As Project Supervisor, Giancarlo’s role was to A&R the content, liaise with Nile Rodgers’ management team, work hand in hand with A&R / Marketing / Production / Legal / local market teams at WMG, as well as liaise with the project’s Art Directors and oversee artwork approval, marketing assets, etc.

The set has received critical acclaim and, hot on the heels of CHIC’s first new studio album in three decades, helped WMG to focus the market on its core catalogue and generate six figure revenues.

Giancarlo is looking forward to working on CHIC again for an exciting 2019 release!

Timing: October 2018

The third phase of the Barry White: The 20th Century Recordings (1972-1979) product reissues focuses on one of R&B’s greatest album discographies.

Giancarlo and his colleagues put together CD, 180 gram vinyl LP and digital box sets as well as individual 180 gram vinyl reissues, with lacquers cut at Abbey Road Studios.

Giancarlo continued in his role as Project Supervisor, liaising with the various teams at UMG (from the proposal of the project concept with a fully detailed and rationalised plan, through dealing with Legal, Licensing, Marketing, Publicity and Production teams), liaising directly with the Barry White Estate for their blessings, briefing the project’s Designer and overseeing all art approvals.

The box set release was warmly received by music critics, all of whom agreed that Barry White's fantastic 70's catalogue had been ignored for far too long, and that these high quality reissues are a welcome excuse to revisit what was one of R&B's most significant discographies.

Timing: September 2018

Having successfully worked the surprise release of Nothing Compares 2 U around what would have been Prince’s 60th birthday earlier in the year, Giancarlo was asked by Warner Music Group and the Prince Estate to continue in his role as Project Director for the second Vault release of the year, the Piano & A Microphone 1983 album.

Overseeing the international launch, Giancarlo was tasked with liaising with the Prince Estate and Warner Music teams to formulate a complete international launch and roll-out strategy, comprising the creation of marketing assets not least of which was a brand-new video for Mary Don’t You Weep, directed by Salomon Lighthelm.

Giancarlo also oversaw international press interviews with Revolution keyboard player and album liner note contributor Lisa Coleman, as well as with Prince Estate archivist Michael Howe. This resulted in huge exposure in key music outlets in all key markets, with the album and video making many critics’ Best Of 2018 lists, with Mary Don’t You Weep featuring amongst President Barack Obama’s favourite songs of the year.

The album release generated over 7 million Spotify streams in its first three months of release, and has generated significant income for Warner Music and the Prince Estate.

Timing: June 2018

The second phase of the Barry White: The 20th Century Recordings (1972-1979) product reissues comprises a pair of singles collections for Barry White’s backing band, the Love Unlimited Orchestra, and his backing singers, Love Unlimited.

Giancarlo and his colleagues put together a CD, 180 gram vinyl LP and digital set for each of Love Unlimited Orchestra and Love Unlimited, presenting their stellar singles and B sides from their time on 20th Century Records, and on Uni / MCA / 20th Century Records respectively.

Giancarlo has acted as Project Supervisor for the entire Barry White: 20th Century Records reissue project, having conceived the product suite, liaising with the various teams at UMG (from the proposal of the project concept with a fully detailed and rationalised plan, through dealing with Legal, Licensing, Marketing, Publicity and Production teams), liaising directly with the Barry White Estate for their blessings, briefing the project’s Designer and overseeing all art approvals.

Timing: June 2018

When Warner Music asked Giancarlo whether he’d be interested in being the Project Director for the first release from Prince’s Vault, as a lifelong Prince fan, he jumped at the chance. Especially when it turned out that it was to be Prince’s previously unreleased original studio recording of Nothing Compares 2 U.

Giancarlo was tasked with liaising with the Prince Estate to formulate a compelling surprise release strategy, to coordinate the creation and delivery of an archive video, and to ensure massive worldwide media exposure around the world. Giancarlo also oversaw key international interviews with Prince’s studio engineer Susan Rogers, and The Family frontman Paul “St Paul” Peterson.

Released on what would have been Prince’s 60th birthday, Nothing Compares 2 U has been streamed over 6 million times on Spotify, with 7.5 million YouTube views, making it an international smash!

Giancarlo went on to oversee Prince’s first posthumous album release, titled Piano & A Microphone 1983, and continues in his role as WMG’s key point person for future Prince projects.

Timing: April 2018.

By the close of the 20th century, and with estimated career sales in the region of 100 million records, Barry White was undisputed in his global status as one of music’s most iconic superstars. His classic 70’s output on 20th Century Records defined the sound of the Soul and Disco genres, and established him as one of the great artist / producers of the era.

Acting as a Project Consultant and Supervisor for Universal Strategic Marketing, and in collaboration with fellow consultants Bill Levenson and Richard Havers, Giancarlo pulled together a complete release strategy and reissue product suite across Barry White’s 20th Century Records catalogue, with multiple formats including 180 gram audiophile vinyl, collectors box sets, a new Singles Collection, and digital.

This project marks the first time in over two decades that Barry White's 20th Century Records catalogue has been given such loving attention. The project runs over a 12 month period and is due to generate substantial income for the label and artist, as well as putting some of the finest soul records back in the collection of music fans around the world.

The first phase of the project focuses on Barry White’s Singles. White was responsible for a prodigious series of hit records in the 70’s, and those classic tracks benefit from remastered reissues across 1CD / 3CD / 7” box set / Digital formats.

In 1967, Aretha Franklin signed to Atlantic Records and thus was born one of the most prolific music careers of all time.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of that historic occasion, Warner Music revisited 14 of the Queen of Soul’s classic recordings and combined them with brand new orchestral arrangements.  The result was ARETHA FRANKLIN: A BRAND NEW ME (WITH THE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA).

Giancarlo was Warner Music’s first choice when they needed an experienced hand to oversee the international launch of the project and to pull together marketing assets to support their teams around the world.

Giancarlo acted as Global Project Director, liaising with Dr Franklin’s legal team, WMG’s internal Marketing / Sales / Legal / International teams, the project’s video editing teams, the RPO, and Abbey Road Studios.

Timing: September 2017

David Bowie was ever-evolving as an artist, both in terms of his music and his image and his Berlin period marked a significant change in both regards from his previous Ziggy Stardust era.

Warner Music have been reissuing Bowie’s “Era” box sets since 2015, and so when they needed help with the international launch of the third set, A NEW CAREER IN A NEW TOWN (1977-1982), they invited Giancarlo to come on board as Global Project Director.

Giancarlo was able to bring his extensive international marketing experience to bear, not only helping build the launch strategy, but also liaising with the Warners teams around the world and DB’s artist management team, and ensuring that the project went off without a hitch.

Giancarlo also helped organise the ANCIANT launch event at Hansa Studios in Berlin, with a live stream playback and Q&A featuring Bowie guitarist Carlos Alomar, and Hansa Studio engineer Eduard Meyer, and Duffy Archive CEO Chris Duffy.

The ANCIANT set was released on 29th September 2017 to international critical acclaim, generating significant sales and revenues for the artist and label.