Universal Music Japan (UMJ) has named highly respected industry and A&R executive Shintaro Aki as General Manager of EMI Records Japan, effective immediately.
He will be based in Tokyo and will report to Naoshi FujikuraChairman and CEO of Universal Music Japan.
Aki joins UMJ from Warner Music Japan, where he most recently served as senior executive producer, during which time he produced various artists and albums for the label.
Since 2007, he has been artistic director for one of Japan’s most popular solo singers, Supermouchecontributing to his national chart success, which included seven No. 1 albums.
He also played a role in the success of other popular artists in Japan, including Ulfuls, Ges no Kiwami Otome, Indigo la End, WANIMA and THE YELLOW MONKEY.
During his two decades with the company, Aki held various leadership positions before being promoted to managing director in 2020, including seven years at the helm of Creative Room 1. [the label now known as Prescribe]home to longtime and rising stars such as Aimyon, Chanmina, Campanella, Mariya Takeuchi, and Tatsuro Yamashita.
He began his career as a promotion specialist, successfully collaborating on several television programs and contributing to the success of national and international artists.
“We look forward to EMI Records, which already has a long history and a broad roster of artists, continuing to shine under Mr. Aki’s new leadership.” »
Naoshi Fujikura, Universel
In making the announcement, Naoshi Fujikura, President and CEO of Universal Music Japan, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Aki, an executive with an incredible track record of producing hits and developing strong relationships with artists within Universal Music Japan.
“We look forward to EMI Records, which already has a long history and a broad roster of artists, continuing to shine under Mr. Aki’s new leadership.” »
“I look forward to creating a new era with everyone at Universal Music Japan, the artists and the management team. »
Shintaro Aki
Shintaro Aki added: “I am very honored to have been appointed CEO of EMI Records, a label with a long and distinguished history. The label is home to many wonderful artists and I will work to develop and grow the label.
“I look forward to creating a new era with everyone at Universal Music Japan, the artists and the management team. »
