Independent distributor IDOL has appointed Johann Böhringer as its new general manager, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Based in Berlin, Böhringer (pictured) will begin the role on July 1 and oversee IDOL’s expansion across the GAS region. He will develop new business opportunities and support IDOL’s existing domestic roster, which includes City Slang, Kabul Fire Records, Noton, Kommerz Records and Squama Records, among others.
One of Böhringer’s first projects will be leading the roll-out of the newly announced album from rising Irish post-punk band Sprints, building on the momentum of their 2024 debut Letter To Self (City Slang), which peaked at No.20 in the UK (10,101 sales to date – Official Charts Company).
He will be integrated into IDOL’s global label and services team, joining Victor Coridass (DSP editorial & partnerships manager) in the Berlin office to strengthen IDOL’s streaming connections in the region.
Böhringer will report to IDOL’s Paris-headquartered leadership team, Sylvain Morton (director of distribution), Constance de Bosredon (head of international – marketing & label services) and Christophe Mauberqué (head of international A&R development).
Böhringer has more than a decade of experience in marketing, A&R and label leadership at both independent and major music companies. He has joined IDOL after leading the label division at A Million Music, a Berlin-based artist management, label and services company known for developing talent in German pop, hip-hop and electronic music.
Prior to A Million Music, he held product manager roles for Sony Music’s Columbia Records Germany and B1 Records, where he managed campaigns for major domestic and international artists.
Johann’s appointment marks an important step in IDOL’s continued investment in the German-speaking markets
Pascal Bittard
Pascal Bittard, founder and President at IDOL, said: “Johann’s appointment marks an important step in IDOL’s continued investment in the German-speaking markets. His proven track record, relationships in the region, and genuine passion for independent music make him a perfect fit for our mission.”
Johann Böhringer said: “I am very much looking forward to joining IDOL, and shaping the company’s global vision for the GAS region. Bringing more than 10 years’ experience in the pop culture universe, I am excited to expand IDOL’s GAS business and provide excellent services with a great team based in Berlin.”
Further to the new hire, IDOL has signed Austrian electronic producer Dorian Concept via his own imprint, Play Instinct. The deal will see IDOL provide worldwide digital distribution, audience development and marketing services for both the artist and label, with a strong focus on the GAS, UK and US territories.
Oliver Johnson, AKA Dorian Concept, said: "I'm excited to be signing with IDOL, who are among the few to genuinely care about the music they distribute whilst building real relationships with the artists behind it. That philosophy is increasingly rare, especially in a time when releasing music is easier than ever, which is often at the expense of meaningful support for artists and labels. I'm in good hands with a company that clearly prioritises quality over quantity, which makes all the difference."
PHOTO: Philipp Gladsome