Warner Music Japan has announced the launch of a new urban label called +809 – (pronounced ‘plus eight-oh-nine’).
An official press release stated: “The label is focused on discovering and nurturing talent from Japan’s fast-growing urban music scene and promoting its artists through Warner Music’s global network.”
The label has launched with the release of the track Ding Dong (feat A.G.O.) by Japanese R&B singer Fleur.
Speaking about the launch, Simon Robson, president, Warner Music Asia, said: “Urban music is exploding across Asia and the Japanese market has some very exciting talent coming through. Warner Music Japan has geared itself to become a digital-first business and that’ll work well for urban acts that primarily play in the streaming space. I look forward to helping some brilliant Japanese urban artists build an international fan base.”
Urban music is exploding across Asia
Simon Robson, Warner Music Asia
Kaz Kobayashi, president and CEO, Warner Music Japan, added: “We’re proud to launch +809 and believe it’ll help break down barriers and enable Japanese artists to succeed in the global streaming market. We want it to become our country’s leading urban label and showcase the future of Japanese music to the world. It’s amazing that we’ve been able to launch the label with a track from such brilliant talents as Fleur and A.G.O.”
In June, Warner Music Asia hired two new senior executives and promoted a third in a new wave of appointments.
Darren Ho was recruited as SVP, marketing strategy, brand & business, greater China and South East Asia and leads Warner’s efforts to further boost audience engagement across digital and social channels to maximise these platforms’ value to artists.
Phil Luen joined as SVP, digital business development and research & analysis, South East Asia and Korea, and leads deal negotiations with local digital service providers in his area, while also taking charge of Warner’s regional research and analysis team.
Brayden Crossley was promoted to the new role of SVP, marketing, greater China and South East Asia overseeing promotional activity for the label's roster of local artists.
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