Sony Music Entertainment (SME) has formed a global joint venture with Los Angeles-based record label D36.
Founded in 2021 by Abhi Kanakadandila, D36 provides a platform to aspiring musicians from South Asia and its diaspora.
According to the companies, the global joint venture will allow SME and D36 to expand the presence of South Asian artists in the United States and help South Asian diaspora artists enter key markets outside the United States.
They added that the new partnership will enable South Asian heritage acts to “cultivate a global fan base, better connect overseas audiences with South Asian talent and increase visibility of the community” in international markets, including the United States.
Kanakadandila’s leadership of the new venture will be assisted by Abdullah Ahmad, general manager and co-founder of D36.
Ahmad’s expertise includes mentoring Young Thug’s careers with Kevin Gates and Jelani Aryeh prior to his tenure with D36.
Recently, D36 released a remix of a hit song by Pakistani indie band AUR Where are you? (feat. ZAYN).
The track is now over 400000000 Play on all streaming platforms between the original song and the remix.
“The South Asian music scene is experiencing a surge in global recognition due to the growing demand for diverse musical experiences.”
Shridhar Subramaniam, Sony Music Entertainment Asia and Middle East
“Our partnership with D36 is about more than just showcasing South Asian artists globally. We are forging a new path of cultural exchange and fostering deeper connections between artists and their heritage.
“The South Asian music scene is experiencing a surge in global recognition due to the growing demand for diverse musical experiences.
“D36 has a proven track record of identifying and nurturing outstanding South Asian talent, and by partnering with them, we can serve as an important bridge, connecting these talented artists with the global opportunities they deserve, further enriching the international music landscape. face.
“This new partnership with Sony Music Entertainment allows us to provide meaningful support for the arts without geographical restrictions and provide an infrastructure that can operate seamlessly across borders.
Abhi Kanakadandila, D36
Abhi Kanakadandila, CEO of D36, said: “Our global community is home to some of the most unique, exciting and innovative music in the world.
“This new partnership with Sony Music Entertainment allows us to provide meaningful support for the arts without geographical restrictions and provide an infrastructure that can operate seamlessly across borders.
“There is tremendous talent and fan base within the several new waves of South Asian music. Our goal is to lay the foundation for the same success for music from other parts of the world.
“The South Asian music market is quickly becoming a powerful force in the global music industry.”
Vinit Thakkar, Sony Music Entertainment India
Vinit Thakkar, Managing Director, Sony Music Entertainment India, added, “The South Asian music market is fast becoming a powerful force in the global music industry.
“With our deep understanding of the local music landscape and market strength, this partnership allows us to not only support local artists but also bridge the gap between their exceptional talent and global audiences.”
