Reservoir Media has announced the acquisition of the catalog of independent label Nacional Records, along with the catalog of its publishing arm, Canciones Nacionales. Reservoir and Nacional will also enter into a new joint venture to sign and develop recording artists and songwriters.

This partnership is a significant move for Reservoir in the Latin space, adding a much-respected catalog in Latin music while establishing a long-term partnership to grow the next generation of Latin hitmakers.

Founded in Los Angeles in 2005 by Tomas Cookman, Nacional has become one of the leading independent labels in Latin music, developing artists across various Spanish-speaking markets and genres.

Its roster and catalog include acclaimed artists such as Ana Tijoux, Nortec Collective, Bomba Estéreo, Tom Tom Club, El Mató a un Policía Motorizado, Aterciopelados, DJ Bitman, YADAM, La Vida Boheme, Jungle Fire, and Cheo. The label has also released seminal albums from artists like Manu Chao, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Jarabe de Palo, and Los Amigos Invisibles, among many others over the years.

The label earned its first Latin Grammy for Best Alternative Album in 2007 with Aterciopelados’ Oye and has continued to champion some of the most influential voices in Latin music, picking up over 100 Grammy and Latin Grammy wins and nominations. In addition, the label’s catalog has also been featured extensively across film, television, gaming, and advertising.

Additionally, Cookman established himself as an influential artist manager and has guided the careers of many iconic artists. He is also a partner in Magnus Talent Agency, a leading global booking and management firm.

“I have long been a fan of what Golnar and Rell have built at Reservoir. We initially met a few years ago and developed a mutual respect for each other’s work—until it became obvious that we should now build together,” said Cookman.

“I feel we share the same work ethic and, equally as important, a love of music and the industry that supports it. I look forward to what comes next for our current and future artists and writers. We look forward to working together to expand the Reservoir footprint in Latin music and culture.”

“Over the last two decades, Nacional has cemented itself as one of the most influential independent music companies in the Latin market, with an incredible catalog and exceptional talent,” added Reservoir President and COO Rell Lafargue.

“We’ve been deliberate about expanding Reservoir’s presence in Latin music, and this partnership is a transformational step in that strategy. It strengthens both our recorded music and publishing businesses while positioning us to invest in the next generation of Latin artists and songwriters. We’re proud to welcome Nacional to Reservoir and continue building on its remarkable legacy.”