Warner Music Group has solidified its presence in China by striking a significant distribution deal with Lay Zhang, a multi-talented artist, producer, and actor. Warner Music China is set to distribute Lay Zhang’s forthcoming album, following his recent achievement of selling out a two-day concert in Beijing, drawing a crowd of 30,000 enthusiastic fans.
This partnership is distinctive in that it doesn’t represent a traditional artist signing. Lay Zhang, known for his entrepreneurial acumen, established his own talent agency, Chromosome Entertainment Group, in 2020. The agency focuses on identifying and nurturing future stars in the entertainment industry.
Remarkably, this collaboration marks Lay Zhang’s second agreement with a global major label in less than a month. In August, he joined forces with UMG’s Capitol Records China for the release of a single titled ‘Pokémon Party.’ This single release was part of UMG’s extended partnership with The Pokémon Company, which had previously included a year-long 25th-anniversary celebration in 2021.
While Lay Zhang collaborated with UMG’s Capitol Records China for the single, Warner Music China has secured the distribution rights for his upcoming album. This sequence of partnerships suggests Lay Zhang’s growing influence and appeal in the global music industry.
As the artist continues to expand his reach and musical endeavors, it remains to be seen whether he will seek a partnership with Sony Music’s Chinese imprints, potentially completing a trifecta of collaborations with major music labels.
