Universal Music launches two new labels in China

Chinese classical and jazz musicians are thrilled on closer and deeper connection and dialogues with the world, as Universal Music Greater China, a division of Universal Music Group, announced the launch of Deutsche Grammophon China (DG China) and Blue Note Records China on Thursday in Shanghai.

As two of the most iconic and influential labels in global classical and jazz history, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note are set to bring their artistic excellence and storied legacy into closer dialogue with China's music community. Both new labels will focus on identifying and supporting rising Chinese talent, fostering original creativity, and building pathways for Chinese musicians to connect with global audiences, according to the company.

"By combining the global heritage and artistic leadership of these two iconic labels with the market knowledge and cultural insight of our local team, we are creating a stronger platform to connect Chinese talent with global opportunities," said Adam Granite, executive vice-president of market development at Universal Music Group.

Chinese musicians shared their excitement and expectations on both labels at the launch ceremony. Lang Lang, a renowned Chinese pianist who will serve as one of the artistic advisors to DG China, said via a video message: "Deutsche Grammophon has been my musical home for many years, and I'm thrilled to see the launch of DG China. I believe DG China will be a key platform for emerging Chinese musicians and help connect classical music with broader audiences. I also hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the global stage."

Yu Long, a globally acclaimed conductor and another artistic advisor to DG China, has enjoyed a long and rewarding relationship with the label. Last December, a six-album box collection of recording Yu's collaboration with DG over the past 25 years was released to mark his 60th birthday. Yu also said it was thrilling to witness the launch of DG China as a new chapter in its celebrated legacy.

Blue Note Records, an iconic jazz label known for representing the most innovative and authentic voices in jazz since 1939, is set to expand its cooperation with China's jazz community with its new arm. With a more locally engaged approach and building genuine and collaborative relationships with local jazz musicians, Blue Note Records China aims to bring Chinese jazz expression to broader international audiences.

Its first signing unveiled at the ceremony was INNOUT, a Chinese avant-garde jazz duo composed of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. Their signing signals the label's commitment to originality, adventurous artistry, and the evolving language of jazz in China.

"Blue Note represents the musical spirit we have always admired. Partnering with Blue Note Records China is a continuation of our dream and marks a brand-new beginning," said the duo.

Also, Blue Note Records China will form a partnership with JZ Music, one of the most influential forces in China's jazz scene, with a focus on live performance opportunities to expand the presence of Chinese jazz on both local and international stages.

"We're excited to join forces with Blue Note Records China to bring more original Chinese jazz to the stage. Together, we hope to create more platforms for artists to perform, grow, and connect with wider audiences — both at home and abroad," said Ren Yuqing, founder of JZ Music.

Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China, pointed out that DG China and Blue Note Records China will be fully committed to discovering and supporting the next generation of talent emerging from China.

"Through these efforts, we hope to contribute to the growth and appreciation of classical and jazz music in China, and to help bring the richness of Chinese musical expression into deeper dialogue with the world," said Xu.