Universal Music Greater China (UMGC) has signed superstar artist Nana Ouyang to a new global agreement, marking her return to the company 10 years after releasing her debut album with Universal.
The deal will cover music development, global distribution, and brand partnerships, as well as artist representation for music-focused activities.
According to UMGC, the partnership is designed to support a “genre-crossing creative journey” through Universal Music Group’s global infrastructure and network of labels.
The move adds to a series of signings and strategic moves for Universal Music in Greater China.
Over this year, UMGC has inked deals with Mandopop artist David Tao and his company GREAT Entertainment, while also expanding iconic jazz and classical labels Blue Note and Deutsche Grammophon into the region.
UMGC has also secured an exclusive global agreement with Liu Huan, a legendary figure in Chinese pop music for four decades, often referred to domestically as the “King of Chinese Pop.”
In addition, the company has partnered with pop megastar Jay Chou and local labels including Modern Sky and TF Entertainment, and became the official recorded music partner for the TV talent show Rap of China in October last year.
UMGC artists have continued to set records in the region. Last year, Jacky Cheung marked his 1,000th concert in China, while the label collaborated with TF Entertainment to promote C-Pop stars on the global stage.
Ouyang first signed to Universal Music China in 2015, releasing her debut classical album 15, which went platinum in Asia.
Since then, she has developed a career spanning cello performance, pop songwriting, acting, and fashion, while building an audience of over 50 million followers across social media. She was also named to Forbes Asia’s 30 Under 30 list for her ability to bridge artistic credibility with mainstream influence.
She collaborated with Disney in 2017 on Cello Loves Disney — the first such project by an artist from Greater China — and has since released both English- and Chinese-language albums of original material, including Live Today and The Star.
Most recently, she issued the cello-led EP Love Letter, which Ouyang described as her “25” milestone project.
It featured her original compositions and arrangements, and its physical formats, CD and vinyl, sold out immediately after pre-orders opened.
Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said Ouyang “represents a rare blend of musical talent, artistic curiosity, and cultural impact”.
“From a cello prodigy to an accomplished music creator, she has come a long way over the past decade — and at just 25, her future holds immense potential.”
Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China
He added: “We’re delighted to welcome her back to Universal Music at the start of this exciting new phase in her artistic journey. Backed by UMG’s diverse family of world-leading labels – our proven expertise in building long-term, full-spectrum artist careers – we look forward to supporting Nana to further explore new creative horizons while strengthening her cultural influence and commercial success across both local and international markets.”
“With UMG’s global platform, I hope my music can reach more audiences around the world, resonate across cultures, and lead me to discover new creative forms of artistic possibilities.”
Nana Ouyang
Commenting on the signing, Ouyang said: “It’s been ten years since I released my first album with Universal Music.
“Now at 25, reconnecting with the label makes this moment feel even more meaningful — it’s the best birthday gift I could have wished for, and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
“I’m excited about working with a team that understands my vision and supports my creative freedom.”
Music Business Worldwide
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