The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games has signed a licensing deal with Universal Music Group that will see Universal Music exclusively release London 2012-branded music, including compilation albums.

The deal also covers the composing, publishing and recording of London 2012-related music between now and the games. Universal Music will also act as consultants to advise LOCOG on all aspects of music at the games.

This is the first time that an organising committee has signed such a wide-ranging deal with a music company. While LOCOG will retain creative control over use of music at the games, the diverse nature of Universal Music Group's labels and artists will provide a talent pool for the games in 2012. 

"From playing music to build up the atmosphere before events, to soundtracks to film and, of course, music at ceremonies, there is a massive role for music at the games," says Chris Townsend, commercial director of LOCOG. "This innovative deal will ensure that we are able to utilize the huge expertise at Universal Music, as well as ensure we have experts working with us at every stage for the composition, recording and in some cases, sale of London 2012 music."