Unidisc Music is a Canadian independent record label headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. Founded in 1977 by Robert (Bob) Décary, the company initially operated as a distributor of disco and dance music. Over time, Unidisc expanded its activities to include the reissue and licensing of a broad catalog of recordings, particularly from the 1970s and 1980s, encompassing genres such as disco, soul, funk, reggae, and early hip‑hop.
History
Unidisc began as a regional distributor for the United States‑based record label V.I.P. Records before establishing its own label imprint. In the early 1990s, the company shifted focus toward acquiring the rights to defunct or dormant catalogs, securing licensing agreements with numerous U.S. and European labels. This strategy enabled Unidisc to re-release classic dance and soul recordings on CD, vinyl, and digital platforms.
Catalog and Releases
The label’s catalog comprises over 6,000 titles, including reissues from artists such as:
- The Whispers
- The O'Jays
- MFSB
- The Sylvers
- Parliament‑Funkadelic collective works
Unidisc is also known for issuing compilation series that showcase specific scenes or eras, such as the “Disco Forever” and “Soulful Jazz” series. In addition to reissues, the label has occasionally released new recordings by contemporary artists who draw on classic dance and soul influences.
Business Operations
Unidisc functions both as a record label and a music licensing entity. The company handles mechanical and synchronization licensing, providing its catalog for use in film, television, advertising, and digital streaming services. Its distribution network includes physical distribution through major retailers and digital distribution through platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
Notable Achievements
- Acquired the catalog of the defunct Atlantic Records subsidiary, Salsoul Records, in the mid‑1990s, which added a significant collection of disco and early dance music to its holdings.
- Recognized for preserving and revitalizing obscure or out‑of‑print recordings, contributing to the continued cultural relevance of 1970s and 1980s dance music.
Current Status
As of the latest publicly available information, Unidisc Music continues to operate as an active label and rights holder, maintaining a presence in both physical and digital markets. The company periodically updates its catalog with new reissues and participates in music industry events that focus on heritage and archival recordings.