The Rolling Stones have ditched one major for another after signing a long term deal with Universal.

The announcements means the band have finally severed their 30 year ties with EMI after that deal ran out at the end of March.

In a statement the band said: "Universal are forward thinking, creative and hands-on music people. We really look forward to working with them."

The Rolling Stones have already released one record through Universal, a live album which came out in March.

Future releases will be via Universal's Polydor imprint with the label saying they're planning "an unprecedented, long-term campaign to reposition the Rolling Stones' entire catalogue for the digital age".

(by Daniel Melia)