Music Industry Mainstay Manfred Schütz Passes Away at Age 74

It is with great sadness that the world says goodbye to Manfred Schütz, an outstanding visionary in the music industry and a pioneer of the independent music scene. The founder of SPV and Founder and managing director of MIG Music passed away on January 3rd, 2025, at the age of 74, after a long and serious illness.

In a tribute to Schütz, MIG Music states:

“Manfred was a driving force in the music industry. By founding SPV in 1984, he created a platform that enabled independent artists and labels to gain worldwide recognition. SPV grew to become one of the most significant entities in the independent label sector, particularly in the rock, metal and electronic scenes, and for many years was the largest independent music distributor in Europe.

“After leaving SPV, Manfred founded MIG Music, where he dedicated himself to preserving musical treasures from oblivion. Thanks to his immense musical knowledge, many remarkable releases have been realized. We often received emails from fans expressing their gratitude for the work of MIG Music.

“Manfred was not only a music enthusiast and businessman, but also an open and warm person. His office door was always open and he always had time to listen to his employees.

“We will miss Manfred very much. We are not only losing a boss but above all a dear friend.

“We fully agree with the words of Ecki Stieg, a friend and companion, in his tribute: ‘With Manfred, we are losing a label boss of the ‘old school’ with all his quirks and eccentricities, as well as a true connoisseur and fan.’

MIG Music will continue under the management of Tanja Michaelis and Volker Pape.

Farewell, Manfred.”