Universal Music Greater China announces strategic global alliance with "Godfather of Mandarin R&B" David Tao and his company Great Entertainment

04 July 2025 - Press release

Universal Music Group to Release David Tao’s New Studio Album STUPID POP SONGS, with Physical Pre-Orders Opening Soon

 

Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced a strategic global alliance with acclaimed Mandopop artist David Tao (陶喆) and his company, GREAT Entertainment.

The agreement marks David Tao’s entry into UMG’s global artist family and reflects a shared vision to elevate Mandarin pop (Mandopop) to new heights on the international stage. Through the alliance, GREAT Entertainment will tap into UMG’s global infrastructure and creative network to help introduce Tao’s artistry to broader audiences worldwide.

The alliance launches with the global release of Tao’s highly anticipated eighth studio album, STUPID POP SONGS his first full-length project in 12 years. This 15-track collection embodies Tao’s irreverent artistic vision, blending distorted guitars, raw vocals, sweeping ballads, and experimental textures. Inspired by years of experimentation and reflection, the album challenges conventional pop norms with honesty, humor, and soul, inviting listeners to rediscover the joy and authenticity in simplicity. The album is available now across major digital platforms, with a physical release coming soon via UMGC.

Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: “David Tao is one of the most visionary and influential figures in Mandopop history. His music has shaped the genre and inspired generations with its emotional depth and artistic courage. We are proud to welcome David to the Universal Music family. This alliance underscores our long-term investment in iconic artistry and reinforces our commitment to expanding the global reach of Mandarin pop.”

David Tao, artist and founder of GREAT Entertainment, said: “Music has always been a borderless and personal journey for me. This new chapter with Universal Music allows us to bring our creative work to a broader global stage. I’m grateful for the trust and alignment in vision, and excited to explore new possibilities with UMGC to elevate Mandarin pop and share our stories with the world.”

Widely recognized as the “Godfather of Mandarin R&B,” David Tao has played a pivotal role in redefining the sound of Mandarin pop over the past three decades. Before launching his solo career, he had already established himself as a sought-after songwriter and producer. In 1997, his self-titled debut album David Tao (《陶喆》) was released to critical acclaim, winning Best New Artist and Best Producer at Taiwan’s Golden Melody Awards, and earning recognition from Billboard as Best Asian Singer Songwriter. Tracks from his debut album, including the hit Love, Very Simple (愛，很簡單), were widely covered, notably by British artist Stewart Mac - a rare example of a Western performer interpreting Mandarin-language music.

His early trilogy of albums - David Tao, I’m OK, and Black Tangerine (《黑色柳丁》) - remains among the most influential works in Mandopop history, with hits that continue to resonate across generations. Tao’s refusal to conform to formulaic trends, his fusion of Western and Eastern musical elements, and his commitment to emotionally honest songwriting has defined his enduring appeal.

Now, in his 28th year in music, STUPID POP SONGS signals not only a comeback, but a bold reinvention. As Tao enters this new chapter with UMG, the alliance reflects a shared commitment to championing originality, preserving musical heritage, and bringing Mandarin pop into bold new conversations on the global stage.