Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), part of Universal Music Group (UMG), announced a strategic partnership with Jay Chou, the renowned “King of Mandopop,” and his record label JVR Music on December 6, 2023, in Beijing. This partnership includes global marketing and distribution rights for Chou’s extensive music catalogue and future projects. It also supports emerging talent from JVR Music, such as Patrick Brasca and Young (Cao Yang). The deal incorporates Jay Chou’s JVR Music Label and his position as IFPI’s 2022 Global Album Sales Chart topper into UMG’s artist roster, highlighting UMG’s dedication to promoting Mandopop internationally.
Timothy Xu, Chairman and CEO of UMGC, expressed pride in welcoming Chou to UMG, acknowledging his global appeal and artistic excellence. Jay Chou has had a significant impact on the Mandarin music scene since 2000 and achieved a historic milestone with his 2022 album, “Greatest Works of Art,” by topping the IFPI Global Album Sales Chart.
JVR Music, founded in 2007 by Jay Chou, Vincent Fang, and JR Yang, is a respected label and artist management agency. JR Yang, CEO of JVR Music, emphasized the partnership’s role in promoting Mandarin pop music globally through UMG’s network. Adam Granite, Executive Vice President of Market Development at UMG, noted the partnership as a strategic and cultural victory, aligning with their mission to introduce diverse talents globally.
Jay Chou, also a celebrated songwriter and collaborator with lyricist Vincent Fang, has had his entire song catalog managed by Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) since 2013. The new agreement with UMGC enhances UMG’s role as a comprehensive global partner for Jay Chou and JVR