Ensign Records

Ensign Records was started in 1976 by London-born Nigel Grainge, as an independent Phonogram subsidiary. Grainge is the elder brother of Universal Music Group Chairman, Lucian Grainge.

History

Grainge began his career in the Record Business as a Sales Office assistant at Phonogram UK in 1970. After promotion to become US-affiliated labels Manager he was responsible for the marketing and chart success of many hits (some unlikely) by acts such as Faron Young, the Detroit Emeralds, The Stylistics, Chuck Berry, Rod Stewart (switching Maggie May from an original 'B' side), and eventually became the company's successful head of A&R from 1974 to 1976. He directly signed Thin Lizzy, 10cc, The Steve Miller Band, and a worldwide license for the successful All Platinum label (hits by Shirley & Co, the Moments, etc.), among others, before deciding to leave and set up his own independent label, duly funded by Phonogram.

Ensign had early success with The Boomtown Rats in 1977, who went on to have 13 UK Top 20 entries including two number 1's - "Rat Trap" and "I Don't Like Mondays". Ensign also had a constant stream of UK and European hits with Flash and the Pan, Eddy Grant, Light of the World, and Phil Fearon & Galaxy. Grainge's cohort throughout the life of the label was London DJ Chris Hill.