Universal Music Group has teamed up with world-renowned actor and top Mandopop musician Jay Chou. Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), a subsidiary of Universal Music Group (UMG), officially announced today (December 6th) that it has entered into a new strategic partnership with Mandopop King Jay Chou (周杰倫) and his record label, JVR Music.
This contract is set to further elevate the international status of Mandopop. Universal Music has secured global distribution rights for Chou's extensive and exceptional music catalog and his upcoming music releases. Additionally, Universal Music plans to provide full support to emerging stars from JVR Music, such as Patrick Brasca and Young (Cao Yang).
Timothy Xu, the head of Universal Music Greater China, expressed, "This partnership celebrates not just business significance, but Jay Chou's outstanding artistry and global appeal. We are thrilled to be his companion in the upcoming musical journey and look forward to helping showcase his incredible talent to more people."
Adam Granite, Executive Vice President of Market Development at Universal Music Group, referred to the agreement as both a "strategic and cultural victory." He continued, "Our partnership with Jay Chou and his label, JVR Music, will further solidify Universal Music Group's commitment to nurturing diverse talents and introducing them to global audiences."
Jay Chou, originating from Taiwan, is a symbolic figure in the Chinese music market, revered as an irreplaceable 'King of Mandopop.' Since his debut in 2000 with the album "JAY," he has firmly held his position as the irreplaceable icon of Mandopop. He also gained popularity in Korea with the film "Secret" in 2007.
In 2003, TIME Magazine labeled him as the 'New King of Asian Pop,' recognizing his incredible sales and award achievements for every released work.
Recently, on March 28, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) ranked Chou's 15th album, "Greatest Works of Arts" (2022), at the top of the '2022 Global Album Sales Chart.' Additionally, Jay Chou was named in the top 10 of the Global Artist Chart, a first for a Chinese-language artist.
