Universal Music Greater China (UMGC) has signed a new partnership with Mandopop artist David Tao and his company GREAT Entertainment, further expanding its presence in the Greater China region.
As part of the deal, UMG will provide the Taiwanese singer-songwriter and GREAT Entertainment access to the music giant’s global infrastructure and creative network.
The partnership coincides with the release of Tao’s eighth studio album, STUPID POP SONGS, his first full-length project since 2012.
Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: “David Tao is one of the most visionary and influential figures in Mandopop history.
“His music has shaped the genre and inspired generations with its emotional depth and artistic courage. We are proud to welcome David to the Universal Music family.
“This alliance underscores our long-term investment in iconic artistry and reinforces our commitment to expanding the global reach of Mandarin pop.”
“David Tao is one of the most visionary and influential figures in Mandopop history. His music has shaped the genre and inspired generations with its emotional depth and artistic courage.”
Timothy Xu, Universal Music Greater China
David Tao added: “Music has always been a borderless and personal journey for me. This new chapter with Universal Music allows us to bring our creative work to a broader global stage.
“I’m grateful for the trust and alignment in vision, and excited to explore new possibilities with UMGC to elevate Mandarin pop and share our stories with the world.”
Tao released his self-titled debut album, David Tao, in 1997. It won Golden Melody Awards for Best New Artist and Best Producer, while Billboard recognized him as Best Asian Singer Songwriter. The album’s track Love, Very Simple was covered by British artist Stewart Mac.
UMG says Tao’s three albums, David Tao, I’m OK, and Black Tangerine are among “the most influential works in Mandopop history.”
Prior to the deal with UMG, Tao previously signed a deal with Warner Chappell Music.
“This new chapter with Universal Music allows us to bring our creative work to a broader global stage.”
David Tao
The latest partnership arrives as UMG continues to expand its presence in Greater China. The company inked deals with pop megastar Jay Chou and local labels like Modern Sky and TF Entertainment, UMGC became the official recorded music partner of the TV talent show Rap of China in October last year.
Under Xu, UMG last year opened a new division/office in China’s Greater Bay Area; it’s headquartered in the city of Shenzhen, also dubbed as “China’s Silicon Valley.”
In February, UMGC announced an exclusive global agreement with Liu Huan, a legendary artist in the Chinese pop music scene for four decades renowned domestically as the “King of Chinese Pop”. The multi-year agreement covers both recording and music publishing rights.
Music Business Worldwide
