Universal Music Group has made a strategic investment in leading Thai music label What The Duck.
What The Duck founder Moy Samkwan Tonsompong will become managing director of Universal Music Thailand, while remaining closely involved with WTD to oversee the label’s continued development and growth. Co-founders Chichaya Karnasuta and Torpong Chantabubpha will remain key members of the WTD team.
Founded in 2014, WTD now represents some of the country’s leading artists, such as The Toys, Bowkylion, Musketeers and Whal & Dolph, as well as a wave of new talent including Landokmai, Purpeech and Mirrr.
“This agreement represents yet another successful example of UMG’s strategy to expand its presence in high-potential growth markets, and builds upon its 2023 acquisition of RS Group’s catalogue,” said a statement.
Alongside UMG’s investment in the label, the move also strengthens the major’s leadership and A&R teams in the region.
This is an exciting next step in our strategy to expand our presence in fast-growing markets
Adam Granite
Digital streaming revenues in Thailand grew rapidly throughout 2024, with revenues from subscription streaming alone up 13.1%. Thailand’s overall recorded music market grew by 12.9% in 2024 to annual revenues of more than $100 million, according to the IFPI.
Adam Granite, UMG’s CEO for Africa, Middle East and Asia, said: “This is an exciting next step in our strategy to expand our presence in fast-growing markets. I am delighted to ‘unite’ the WTD and UMG families and look forward to working closely with Moy and the team delivering success in Thailand and beyond.”
Moy Samkwan Tonsompong, founder of WTD, said: “We’re thrilled to be joining the team at UMG. We believe this will only serve to create more opportunities for Thai music both at home and globally, while also strengthening our offer to artists. I’m committed to staying closely involved with the WTD team – ensuring this partnership drives global success for our artists and brings the creative force that is Thai music to more audiences than ever before.”
Calvin Wong, CEO, Southeast Asia and Korea, UMG, said: “We’re delighted to be joining forces with WTD. In a short space of time, Moy and his team have built an incredibly strong offer for artists and curated a roster of exceptional talent. I’m eager to start working with them on the next phase of their journey and look forward to seeing their artists flourish both within and outside Thailand.”
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