M.I.A. Signs New Publishing Deal With BMG

M.I.A. is bringing her massive talent and controversial swag to BMG Chrysalis UK. The label announced the transaction on Friday, and simply stated that the deal will cover "future compositions" from the "Paper Planes" artist.

From the official release:

BMG Chrysalis UK is delighted to announce that M.I.A. — one of the world's most influential artists — has signed an exclusive worldwide publishing deal with the company.

The agreement covers future compositions by the Grammy- and Oscar-nominated artist, named by Time magazine as one of the world's most influential people.

"This is truly a marquee signing. M.I.A. is one of the great leaders and influencers and innovators in contemporary popular culture," BMG Chrysalis UK EVP Alexi Cory-Smith said. "We are extremely pleased that she has chosen BMG to represent her future work."

The 39-year-old Brit has seen her fair share of controversy over the years, most notably the middle finger she extended to an international audience during the Super Bowl halftime show in 2012.

But after months of legal wrangling, that incident is now behind her, and she's now throwing her political weight behind the Courage Foundation, which is funding the legal defense for WikiLeaks creator Edward Snowden.

Other backers include Tom Morello, Thurston Moore, Moby and PJ Harvey.

"We stand in support of those fearless whistleblowers and publishers who risk their lives and careers to stand up for truth and justice," the group's official statement read. "Thanks to the courage of sources like Daniel Ellsberg, Chelsea Manning, Jeremy Hammond and Edward Snowden, the public can finally see for themselves the war crimes, corruption, mass surveillance, and abuses of power of the U.S. government and other governments around the world. WikiLeaks is essential for its fearless dedication in defending these sources and publishing their truths. These bold and courageous acts spark accountability, can transform governments and ultimately make the world a better place."

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M.I.A., Tom Morello, Thurston Moore, Moby, PJ Harvey, Edward Snowden