Inside IRMA Records: Nearly 40 Years in Sync

For our latest Client Spotlight, we’re heading to Bologna to catch up with IRMA Records and Corrado Dierna, Head of Licensing at one of Europe’s longest-running independent labels and a true institution in the world of sync.

With nearly four decades in the business, Irma has built a catalog that moves effortlessly across genres, formats, and decades – and continues to show up in global campaigns, major TV series, and cultural moments where the music really matters. In this conversation, we talk about longevity, standout placements, and what it takes to stay relevant in an ever-changing licensing landscape.

“We focus on enriching our large International Network of partners worldwide, trying to be competitive and efficient in any negotiation and request we deal with.” — Corrado Dierna, Head of Licensing, IRMA Records

1. Can you tell us about your role and what your team focuses on?

I’m the Head of worldwide Licensing for Irma Records, an Italian Independent Label based in Bologna that recently has celebrated its 37th Birthday in the Music business. Irma started releasing music in 1989 and is today one of the oldest Independent Labels all over Europe. We’re internationally renowned through its several labels, each dedicated to different music trends, from Italo House to Dance, from Disco to Funky, from Lounge to Jazz, from Indie Rock to Electronic. Thanks to our sister Company, Publishing, which handles all releases on the Irma Catalog, we can offer immediate One-Stop and easy, clearable music for all types of Sync Licences, Films, TV Placements, and various other special Marketing activities. We focus on enriching our large International Network of partners worldwide, trying to be competitive and efficient in any negotiation and request we deal with.

2. Can you share a recent project where music or sound design made all the difference?

We were recently involved in a social media campaign for Apple, advertising an iPhone and an iWatch. The music used was all based on samples we’ve cleared for a dance track recorded in the UK.

3. What’s one project you’re particularly proud of?

Our Claim to fame in the Sync world must be when, years back, we managed to license a very high number of tracks to be used as background Music during various episodes of one of the most famous TV Series in the world: Sex & the City.

4. What’s a moment in pop culture where the music choice really stood out to you?

When we licensed ‘Bad Side’ by LTJ X-Perience Feat. Anduze for the launch of a very famous video game ‘Grand Theft Auto’ that starred the character of a known American DJ in the Film, and it was this actual DJ who pressed to have our tracks featured in the scene! And it does work just perfectly.

5. What’s a song you’ve had on repeat lately?

I’m loving the recent releases by Anduze (Such a great singer) and the brand new Album by The Sweet Candies. Great Soul Disco vibes with amazing live musicians and the three lovely singers.

Huge thanks to Corrado Dierna and the IRMA team for sharing their perspective and for continuing to set the bar for what long-term, artist-first licensing can look like on a global scale.

Find out more about IRMA Records here.