In a significant move within the global music industry, Universal Music Japan (UMJ) has secured a majority stake in the Japanese music entity A-Sketch. This strategic acquisition highlights UMJ's commitment to enhancing its presence in one of the world's largest music markets. The partnership brings together a wealth of talent and resources, aiming to foster innovative experiences for music enthusiasts both locally and internationally.

A-Sketch, established in 2008 as a subsidiary of Amuse and in collaboration with KDDI, has made a name for itself by nurturing artists across diverse genres such as rock, J-pop, and anime music. Notable acts under its umbrella include Saucy Dog, Flumpool, and Ayumu Imazu. Additionally, A-Sketch oversees MASH A&R, a leading rock management company that represents prominent artists like The Oral Cigarettes and FREDRIC. Under the new arrangement, A-Sketch will continue to operate under the leadership of Nobuyuki Soma, who will now report to Naoshi Fujikura, President and CEO of Universal Music Japan.

The integration of A-Sketch into Universal Music Japan signifies a pivotal moment for both companies. By leveraging UMJ's extensive global network, this partnership is poised to unlock unprecedented opportunities for artists to reach broader audiences. It underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in the music industry, fostering an environment where creativity can thrive and new horizons are continuously explored. Both parties express enthusiasm about the future, emphasizing their dedication to elevating the profiles of talented musicians and delivering compelling musical experiences to fans around the world.