MUMBAI: Universal Music Group has entered into a long-term music monitoring and information deal with BigChampagne, the online music measurement company, for North America.

As part of this deal, BigChampagne will provide UMG’s market-leading family of labels with analysis of songs and listening patterns from millions of users of social networks and online music services.

"As we continue to expand our services to our artists and partner labels, it\’s important to utilize the best research tools available especially when it comes to the proliferation of music discovery and consumption on the web. And with the addition of BigChampagne, we provide a comprehensive view of the marketplace, from the radio, online, and retail perspectives, all of which results in more opportunities for our artists and labels," stated Universal Music Group Distribution president & CEO Jim Urie.

"UMG’s recognition and support of our work spans nearly a decade. As the music market continues to diversify, UMG is demonstrating critical thought leadership in understanding and meeting the demands of the new landscape. We are excited to work together to improve the state of the art in measurement and analytics," added BigChampagne founder and CEO Eric Garland.