Nigel Grainge (4 October 1946 – 11 June 2017) was the founder of Ensign Records in 1976. Grainge began his career in the record business as a Sales Office assistant at Phonogram UK in 1970. After promotion to become US-affiliated labels Manager, he was responsible for the marketing and chart success of many hits (some unlikely) by acts such as Faron Young, the Detroit Emeralds, The Stylistics, Chuck Berry, Rod Stewart (switching "Maggie May" from an original 'B' side), and eventually became the company's successful head of A&R from 1974 to 1976. He directly signed Thin Lizzy, 10cc, The Steve Miller Band, and a worldwide license for the successful All Platinum label (hits by Shirley & Co, the Moments, etc.), among others, before deciding to leave and set up his own independent label, duly f