Prestigious classical and jazz labels open dedicated China branches

Deutsche Grammophon (DG) and Blue Note Records, two of the world's most iconic classical and jazz labels, launched Chinese branches on May 15 as the country's audience for these genres continues to expand.

The labels will operate dedicated China imprints in collaboration with Universal Music Greater China, the companies said.

Executives launch Deutsche Grammophon China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

"For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians," said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China.

"These labels have deeply influenced how local artists understand, study and create within these genres. Today marks a new beginning. For the first time, these two iconic brands are establishing dedicated labels in China to engage directly with local artists and communities."

The new labels will focus on discovering Chinese talent, developing original creative work and connecting local musicians with international audiences, according to company executives.

Xu said 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," he said.

"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 for market development at Universal Music Group.

Pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang, along with Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Music Director Yu Long, all longtime DG artists, will serve as artistic advisors to DG China, executives announced at the launch event.

Lang Lang said in a video message that "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," he said. "I also hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the global stage, a mission I deeply believe in and am proud to support."

DG China will release its first album, "Bach: The Cello Suites," performed by cellist Wang Jian on May 23, with plans to record all of Dmitri Shostakovich's symphonies with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra by 2029 to mark the orchestra's 150th anniversary. Yu Long called it "also a powerful expression of the artistry and interpretive depth of Chinese musicians today."

Executives launch Blue Note Records China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

Blue Note Records China, a new division of the iconic jazz label known for artists like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, will focus on developing local talent while bringing Chinese jazz to international audiences, executives said.

The label's first signing is INNOUT, an avant-garde jazz duo composed of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. The duo combines jazz with electronic elements and experimental composition in a style that has gained recognition in China's contemporary jazz scene.

Don Was, president of Blue Note Records, said: "Xiao Jun and An Yu are two of the most talented and visionary musicians I've ever met. Their music is going to blow people's minds all over the world. It's a thrill and an honor to be able to launch Blue Note Records China with their music."

Blue Note Records China will also partner with JZ Music, a major player in China's jazz scene, to develop live performance opportunities, including tours, festivals and venue events. The partnership aims to increase Chinese jazz visibility both locally and internationally.