Kid-focused audio platform Yoto has inked a deal with Universal Music Group to access its iconic catalog. Up first? Queen.
Yoto says this new distribution partnership will help improve opportunities for children to interact with music and artistry from an early age, allowing kids to explore music without a screen. Yoto is the brainchild of Ben Drury and Filip Denker to allow kids to be exposed to music without adverts, unsuitable content, or tons of screen time. The company just launched its Yoto Player 3rd generation in June 2023 in the UK, France, and North America.
The partnership between Yoto and UMG kicks off this month with the launch of the UK’s best-selling album of all time, Queen’s Greatest Hits: Volume 1. This card marks the beginning of a partnership that will see artists like Bob Marley & the Wailers and partner labels Motown Records & Disney Music Group seeing releases on the platform in the coming months. Yoto cards are available to purchase on the Yoto website and at stores in the US, UK, Canada, and the EU.
“Research consistently shows that music plays a crucial role in a child’s development, stimulating their creativity, enhancing cognitive abilities, teaching language, and creating social bonds,” says Yoto Co-Founder & CEO Ben Drury.
“This new partnership with Universal Music Group helps us access their extraordinary catalog so we can now offer kids an even richer and more diverse audio experience. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire children through the power of audio, and we can’t wait to see the smiles on their faces and watch kitchen dance floors fill up as Yoto families explore the magic of music.”
“We’re delighted to bring UMG’s unparalleled roster of artists and labels to Yoto’s growing global audience of kids and family listeners for the first time,” adds Andrew Kronfeld, Executive Vice President International and Label & Artist Ventures at Universal Music Group. Yoto has also inked a deal with Warner Music Group.
