Apple adds Chinese music catalog to iTunes

Apple yesterday added a large collection of Chinese music to the US version of the iTunes Music Store. Through a deal with The Orchard, the leading distributor and marketer of independent music in the world, iTunes now features the exclusive western launch of China's No. 1 paid download, "Mouse Loves Rice", along with thousands of other tracks from 20 of China's largest music labels. The Chinese music catalog includes an exclusive digital-only Jackie Chan charity track as well as a diverse selection of music that showcases the latest Chinese hip-hop, rap, rock, traditional and cultural music.

"The Orchard's landmark launch of this rich spectrum of leading artists
and labels from China again demonstrates our commitment to opening new markets
for artists and enabling the free flow of music across borders, oceans, and
cultures," said Greg Scholl, chief executive of The Orchard.

To promote this collection, The Orchard enlisted Chinese legend Jackie Chan to compile his top dozen all-time favorite tracks, which range from Mandarin Pop to Alternative & Punk to Instrumental Chinese Classical to Canto Pop. In addition, much of The Orchard's Chinese music catalog will be included this week in an iTunes feature highlighting music of the world.

In addition to the infusion of Chinese music, the companies are planning a major merchandising campaign, orchestrated by The Orchard, to showcase China's hottest music to US audiences.

"This is a watershed of the online music development and a monumental step
for the Chinese music industry, with The Orchard and partners playing a
pivotal role," said Daniel Cheung, a legendary songwriter, producer and
A&R executive. "Music has been an integral part of Chinese civilization for the last 4,000 years and with this launch, Chinese music will begin to resonate in all corners of the globe."

Filed under: industry
Other story tags: digital music/video