MUSIC BUSINESS



 

Warner Music’s global independent distribution division ADA is opening for business in Japan, the world’s second largest music market.

The local ADA team will be led by respected executive Kaz Aida, who joins from Universal Music, where he worked to get streaming services licensed in Japan.

Aida will be based in Warner Music’s new Tokyo headquarters and will report directly to Vic Horikiri, COO of Warner Music Japan.

The launch follows the announcement of the establishment of ADA Latin and ADA Asia, which covers Greater China, Korea and South East Asia, during the summer, as well as strategic licensing deals with partners, such as Tips and Ziiki Media in India, and DPM in Indonesia.

With a career spanning more than 10 years, Aida has enjoyed a wide range of success in areas including A&R, commerce, digital marketing, promotions and more.

He has supported a large number of legendary local artists, such as Kiyoshiro Imawano and THE ALFEE, as well as the all-female rock group PassCode, who reached No.1 on the Oricon singles chart.

In his last role at Universal Music Japan, Aida managed a variety of digital deals which saw the record company license Amazon, Apple Music, LINE MUSIC and Spotify.

He spent a dozen years at the company, joining when it was still EMI Japan, after starting his music career at Roadrunner Records.

Kaz Aida says: “I’m delighted to take on the opportunity of building ADA’s business 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.”
Eliah Seton, President of Independent Music and Creator Services at Warner Music Group, added: “It is a major milestone in ADA’s globalization to launch in the world’s second biggest music market.

“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.”
Kaz Kobayashi, President and CEO, Warner Music Japan, said: “The launch of ADA Japan expands Warner Music Group’s offering to the local music community.

“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.”