TFBOYS 7th anniversary concert is held online on August 22, 2023. Photo: Courtesty of NetEase

Universal Music under music-based entertainment company Universal Music Group, and TF Entertainment, behind China's idol sensations such as TFBOYS and Teens In Times (TNT), have forged an alliance aiming to propel C-pop sensations onto the global stage.

The agreement, which was announced on Wednesday, includes global digital distribution for TF Entertainment's roster of talent. TF Entertainmentwill leverage UMG's global distribution capabilities and marketing network to expand C-pop's reach beyond the Chinese mainland.

"We're thrilled to embark on this partnership with TF Entertainment, paving the way for iconic C-pop groups like TFBOYS and TNT to captivate audiences worldwide. This alliance underscores our dedication to elevating Chinese pop music to global acclaim, both culturally and commercially," said Timothy Xu, chairman and chief executive officer of Universal Music in China.

"It also provides a unique opportunity to advance our superfan strategy, offering fans around the world access to distinctive cultural experiences," Xu added.

Chen Chunhui, CEO of TF Entertainment, echoed Xu's sentiment, expressing eagerness to leverage UMG's expertise in propelling local music onto the world stage.

"UMG's proven success in elevating local music to worldwide phenomena is exactly what we aspire to achieve. The professionalism and robust support from their team inspires great optimism, and we eagerly look forward to the fruitful results our strategic alliance will yield," Chen said.

Since 2009, TF Entertainment has been a pioneer in China's pop culture landscape, introducing the trainee system to cultivate idol groups, with TFBOYS and TNT being the most successful to date.

TFBOYS, formed in 2013, has garnered immense popularity in China, with members Karry Wang, Roy Wang, and Jackson Yee garnering a combined following of over 250 million followers on Sina Weibo, China's X-like platform. 

TNT, featuring Ma Jiaqi, Ding Chengxin, Song Yaxuan, Liu Yaowen, Zhang Zhenyuan, Yan Haoxiang and He Junlin, debuted in 2019. 

Global Times