With China now having a burgeoning legal music-streaming market, it’s no surprise to see international artists looking to do more there. British band Suede are the latest example, signing a ‘strategic copyright cooperation’ with Chinese music company Modern Sky. China Daily reported that the latter will be distributing, promoting and managing copyright for Suede’s back catalogue as well as their new album.
It’s part of Modern Sky’s longer-term efforts to build its profile within the international music industry. In November 2024 it signed a global distribution deal with Universal Music Group, for example. Suede’s China move is also part of a wider trend as the UK’s music industry looks to the country.
Labels body the BPI recently announced a music mission to China in partnership with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade. That will take place next month to coincide with China’s IMX Shanghai conference.
