Warner Music’s independent distribution division, ADA, is launching in Japan.
The move into the world’s second largest music market will be led by Kaz Aida who joins from Universal Music.
He will be based out of Warner Music’s new Tokyo headquarters where he will report directly to COO of Warner Music Japan, Vic Horikiri.
“I’m delighted to take on the opportunity of building ADA’s business in Japan," said Aida who previously worked on getting streaming services licensed in Japan. "We’re a fast-changing market, with digital adoption now taking off at a rapid rate. I want to help our local labels and management companies navigate this scene and also plug their artists into ADA’s unrivalled global network.”
Kaz Kobayashi, president and CEO, Warner Music Japan welcomed the arrival of ADA into the Japanese market.
“The launch of ADA Japan expands Warner Music Group’s offering to the local music community," he said. "We’ve invested much time in repurposing our business for a changing music market and ADA is well placed to assist local labels to do the same.”
The arrival in Japan follows the foundation of ADA Latin and ADA Asia, which covers Greater China, Korea and South East Asia, during the summer.
“It is a major milestone in ADA’s globalization to launch in the world’s second biggest music market," suggested Eliah Seton, president of independent music and creator services at Warner Music Group.
"Kaz brings tremendous experience across all aspects of the music business and will be an invaluable partner to independent labels and artists. ADA Japan could not be in better hands.”
In September ADA opened offices in Singapore, while last week it sealed a partnership with DPM, one of Indonesia’s largest music companies.
