LONDON (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — In another blow to struggling Sanctuary Records co-founder and legendary manager Rod Smallwood has left the firm. Sanctuary, named after an Iron Maiden song, will retain some interests in the band.
"Mr Smallwood will continue to manage Iron Maiden in his new company, although Sanctuary will continue its long association with the band through the issue of its latest album in the US and in the fields of merchandising and live agency," said Sanctuary in a statement. They will be responsible for the U.S. distribution of the recently released Iron Maiden record and retain rights on touring and merchandising as well.
The Daily Mail is reporting that Smallwood will join forces with Andy Taylor, another one of Sanctuary's founders, who was reportedly forced out for his handling of the troubled label's finances. Sanctuary has been in dire straits for some time now after the acquisition of Urban Records, a venture that has been less than profitable.
Smallwood has been the focus of departure rumors for some time now. He is the latest in a string of veterans to jump ship from the troubled label, joining the likes of Emma Banks, Mike Greek and Merck Mercuriadis in seeking their fortunes elsewhere. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
