Universal Music Germany, a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), today announced that one of Europe’s most successful dance labels is stepping into a new era. Virgin Records Germany officially becomes Intercord Records—a bold, forward-looking rebrand that celebrates both heritage and evolution. It marks the beginning of a powerful new chapter in the global electronic music landscape.
Building on years of international success and cultural influence, the label recognized the need for a name that reflects its evolution and individuality. The transition to Intercord Records gives the label a clear, unified identity. It is dynamic, international, and true to its dance roots.
“Intercord signals how far we’ve come and the next step in our evolution,”… “We’ve built incredible momentum over the past seven years, and now we’re giving that success its own unmistakable identity – a brand that belongs to our artists, our community, and our future.”
Alexander Neipp, VP Marketing, Intercord Records
Reborn
While born from the Universal Music family, the Intercord name carries its own rich history. Originally founded in 1966, the brand helped bring electronic acts such as Depeche Mode, Erasure, Yazoo, and Moby to German audiences. Intercord Records will continue to be a stronghold for dance and electronic music in Germany and Central Europe. Meanwhile, it is expanding its reach with a growing roster of genre-blending artists, including Leony, Ray Dalton, Alle Farben, and several new signings to be unveiled soon.
By reviving the Intercord name, the label is not only reclaiming an important part of Germany’s music history but also projecting it into the future. From licensing partnerships with Mute Records in the 1980s to shaping the Euro-dance sound of the 90s, Intercord’s influence on global dance culture runs deep. Now, under Universal Music Group, it’s poised to redefine what a 21st-century label can be. It will be agile, artist-centric, and culture-driven.
A Successful Year
The move comes after the label’s most successful year to date, achieving record-breaking chart success. Importantly, Intercord Records will continue to be powered by the same team. This includes the dedicated A&Rs and product managers who champion every release.
With over 40 billion partner streams and a catalog that defines modern dance music, the label’s influence runs through the core of the global electronic scene. Their releases have shaped the sound of dance floors worldwide. They helped launch the next generation of international talent. From breaking out Mau P with ‘Drugs From Amsterdam’ to propelling James Hype’s ‘Ferrari’ on the world stage, their success is evident. They also have a string of chart-topping anthems like MEDUZA’s ‘Piece Of Your Heart’, HUGEL’s ‘I Adore You’, and Topic’s ‘Breaking Me’.
The new Intercord identity took center stage at Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) this October. The label hosted its annual Intercord Mixer at Soho House / Cecconi’s. Now that it is a cornerstone of ADE’s industry calendar, it features ten back-to-back performances. There are major DJs and rising stars, surprise guests, and a first look at the new visuals and branding.
About Intercord Records
Intercord Records is one of Europe’s leading labels for dance and electronic music, and part of Universal Music Germany. Originally founded in 2018 under the Virgin Records brand, the label was relaunched as Intercord Records in 2025. It stands at the forefront of modern dance culture. The label represents global stars such as Felix Jaehn, Topic, Meduza, James Hype, and HUGEL. Driven by innovation, collaboration, and a global outlook, Intercord Records continues to shape the sound of contemporary electronic music. It connects audiences worldwide.
Its sublabel ZEITGEIST has become a powerhouse in the German-speaking market, delivering chart-topping hits. Examples include ‘Wackelkontakt’ by Oimara and ‘Mädchen auf dem Pferd’ by Luca-Dante Spadafora and Niklas Dee. Furthermore, this cements its role as one of the region’s most influential new music forces. With this new chapter unfolding, Intercord Records is focused on building long-term growth. It seeks international collaborations and an even stronger presence across Europe, the UK, the US, and beyond.