Universal Music Group (UMG) and Dakia U-Ventures announced the building of three hotels under a new brand on October 9, 2020. They have their eyes on Atlanta, GA; Orlando, FL; and Biloxi, MS as their first cities for UMG’s new development: the hospitality business.
UMG—a.k.a., the world’s leading music company—has represented numerous stars such as Post Malone, Lady Gaga, Juice Wrld, and so many others. Some iconic companies they work with include Abbey Road Studios, Capitol Records, and Def Jam Recordings. Dakia is a social-purpose business with a shared purpose and passion for “creating high impact social benefit”.
The first development will take place in Biloxi, MS. Universal Music Group will transform the old Broadwater Resort into a $1.2 billion destination. It will combine its music connections with some of the word’s greatest entertainers, as well as working alongside Biloxi’s rich musical heritage to develop the UMUSIC Hotel. This 266-acre property was “the gem of the Gulf Coast” in the past, having a hotel, a marina, a golf course, and a casino. As a result, this new build will have all of that and a new “state-of-the-art” music venue.
Dakia U-Ventures Chairman, Robert Lavia, says, “Every destination holds a great story just waiting to be told through its cultural heritage and its music.” According to UMG, they plan to embody each location’s unique spirit, drawing inspiration from their respective local culture. They will also serve as a creative hub as a community around the world by promoting social change and innovation through music.
Guests will also have the opportunity to discover the soul of each city through its musical heritage. UMUSIC Hotels will create an experience that fans, guests, and artists will find immersive and enlightening. The plan is for UMUSIC Hotel to be a new collection of music-based experiential hotels globally.