Operator News
US – Biloxi set for $1.2bn UMusic Broadwater Hotel complete with casino
By Phil - 12 October 2020
A trio of ‘music-based experiential hotel properties’ will be built in Atlanta, Biloxi and Orlando with the first, a $1.2bn Biloxi resort, set to include a large performance venue, a 1,000-room luxury hotel and a casino.
Universal Music Group (UMG), a world leader in music-based entertainment and Dakia U-Ventures, the entertainment impact investment group, have confirmed the launch of UMUSIC Hotels, a new global collection of music-based experiential hotel properties, as part of their previously announced joint venture. UMUSIC Hotels’ first three announced locations will be Atlanta, Georgia; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Orlando, Florida; with additional cities across the US and around the world to come.
Whilst little was revealed in this latest announcement about the gaming element, an earlier release stated the casino element would cost US4200m with the gaming floor covering 125,000-square-foot.
Artists impressions of the envisaged UMusic Broadwater Hotel depict a waterfront hotel that looks like it will rival Biloxi’s biggest resort, the Beau Rivage Casino, Resort and Spa, in size. The design features an indoor concert hall with a large exterior screen facing a marina. It will be built at former site of the Broadwater Resor, which included a hotel, a marina, a golf course and a casino
The two company’s stated: “Embodying each location’s unique spirit, the hotels will draw inspiration from their respective local culture and serve as creative hubs in communities around the world – promoting positive social change, education and innovation through the power of music. Guests will discover the soul of each city through its rich local music heritage. UMUSIC Hotels are committed to helping their communities thrive – creating jobs for local residents, supporting local businesses and suppliers, and creating opportunities for local artists, such as the establishment of new state-of-the-art music venues.”
Robert Lavia, Chairman at Dakia U-Ventures, said: “Every destination holds a great story just waiting to be told through its cultural heritage and its music. Through this new concept, we will both help people discover new ways to channel their love for music and the arts and help empower the transformation of communities worldwide through cultural, inspirational, creative and conscious collaboration. And we’re thrilled to work together with Universal Music Group who shares our vision and passion about the powerful role of culture and music for each community we touch.”
Bruce Resnikoff, President and CEO of Universal Music Enterprises, said: “Through music’s unique power to inspire and unite – especially given UMG’s unparalleled roster of artists and labels – UMUSIC Hotels will both highlight these cities’ rich music heritages and provide new opportunities for artists to reach fans in immersive, innovative and authentic ways.”
Mississippi Govenor Tate Reeves added: “We are excited to welcome this new property to Mississippi! The gaming industry has provided countless opportunities for good work in our state, and brought in a tremendous amount of revenue. It attracts visitors from all over the globe. Universal Music Group is a natural fit, considering the rich musical legacy of Mississippi and Biloxi in particular. This will be a great partnership that will provide a lot of fun and economic growth for the people of Mississippi.”
Biloxi Mayor Andrew Gilich added: “Music and entertainment has always been a part of Biloxi DNA. What the UMUSIC Broadwater Hotel brings with its opening is reflective of this 320 plus year history. The people of the city of Biloxi, the state of Mississippi and beyond will benefit greatly from the addition of this hotel to our landscape.”
Pyramid Hotel Group has partnered with the joint venture for the United States operations of the hotels. Warren Fields, Pyramid’s Chief Executive Officer, added, “We’re excited to work with the Dakia U-Ventures and Universal Music Group teams to launch this new category of experiential hospitality and helping to create properties that truly embody the spirit of the communities of which UMUSIC Hotels will be a part. We share in the vision to give fans, guests and our communities best-in-class experiences around the world.”
UMUSIC Hotels will create immersive experiences for fans, guests and artists alike, with music and entertainment at the forefront of design and guest experience all around the globe. As part of their commitment to the local community, each property will be skillfully designed to complement the city landscape and authentically incorporate elements of the local music scene. The UMUSIC Broadwater Hotel in Biloxi will seamlessly integrate a stunning performance venue and a luxury hotel with an immersive architecture style. In Atlanta, the UMUSIC Hotel will include a holistic entertainment venue. UMUSIC Orlando’s design will similarly reflect a music-first experience for guests.
