Believe Signs Landmark Distribution Deal with Japan's Teichiku Entertainment
Believe has announced a comprehensive distribution agreement with Teichiku Entertainment, marking a significant expansion in the Japanese music market.
Protestors with signs at demonstration
The partnership grants Believe worldwide distribution rights to Teichiku's entire catalog. Teichiku Entertainment, a 90-year-old Japanese label owned by Xing Inc. (a Brother subsidiary), is home to prominent Japanese artists including Sayuri Ishikawa, Cynhn, and Naoki Sanada.
This collaboration aims to achieve two primary objectives:
- Expand Teichiku's catalog to a global audience
- Accelerate the label's digital transformation in Japan's traditionally physical music market
Hideki Kurita, Teichiku Entertainment's president and CEO, emphasized their goal to promote J-POP globally, citing Believe's international track record as a key factor in their partnership decision.
Believe Japan GM Erika Ogawa-Arai highlighted that Teichiku's digital transformation strategy encompasses all company levels, from leadership to operational teams.
This move follows Believe's recent expansion efforts in Japan, including:
- Establishing Tokyo headquarters (October 2023)
- Launching Japanese hip-hop label Playcode (February 2024)
The partnership comes amid increased industry activity in Japan, the world's second-largest music market:
- Warner Music Japan entered anime music through NBCUniversal Japan
- Universal Music acquired majority stake in A-Sketch
- Warner Music/10K signed J-pop act Psychic Fever
- Hybe rebranded its Japanese division as YX Labels
Two recording mics on desk