May 14, 2025
Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), today announced the official launch of Blue Note Records China and Deutsche Grammophon China (DG China), marking a major expansion into China’s burgeoning jazz and classical music sectors. As two of the most iconic and influential labels in global classical and jazz history, Blue Note and Deutsche Grammophon will now operate dedicated China imprints through collaboration with UMGC, bringing 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.
With the launch of Blue Note Records China, the iconic jazz label — known for representing the most innovative and authentic voices in jazz since 1939 — begins a new chapter in China. The new imprint will carry forward the spirit of its parent label while embracing a more locally engaged approach, building genuine, collaborative relationships with local jazz musicians, and helping bring Chinese jazz expression to broader international audiences.
The label’s first signing is INNOUT, a groundbreaking avant-garde jazz duo composed of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. Known for their pure improvisational performances, INNOUT treats each live show as a spontaneous exploration of the present moment — a fresh act of musical reflection that unfolds in real time. Their work boldly integrates modern jazz, experimental electronics, and free-form composition, making them one of the most distinctive voices in China’s contemporary jazz scene. Their signing signals the label’s commitment to originality, adventurous artistry, and the evolving language of jazz in China.
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.”
INNOUT commented: “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.”
In addition, Blue Note Records China will form a partnership with JZ Music, one of the most influential forces in China’s jazz scene. The collaboration will focus on live performance opportunities — including artist touring, music festivals, and live house events — aimed at expanding the presence and visibility of Chinese jazz on both local and international stages.
Ren Yuqing, Founder of JZ Music, said: “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.”
Justin Seltzer, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Blue Note Records, added: “Partnering with JZ Music allows us to work alongside one of the most trusted and influential names in China’s jazz community. With their deep local roots and long-standing commitment to live music, we’re proud to create new opportunities for Chinese jazz to flourish and engage in the global conversation.”
Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: “For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians. These labels have deeply influenced the way 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. 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.”
Adam Granite, Executive Vice President, Market Development, Universal Music Group, said: “At UMG, we are committed to supporting the development of diverse music cultures around the world. The launch of Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China reflects this vision in action and marks a meaningful step forward in the evolution of our multi-label operations in the market. 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.”
The launch of Blue Note Records China was also met with warm congratulations from across the country’s jazz community, including celebratory video messages from a number of prominent artists and industry figures, including singer Li Quan, jazz pianist Huang Jianyi, guitarist Gu Zhongshan, drummer Xu Zhitong, trumpeter Toby Mak, saxophonist Huang Ye, guitarist Xu Zhihan, pianist Yang Guang, and drummer Xue Xiaolun.
