Mandopop trailblazer David Tao (陶喆) has officially joined Universal Music Group’s global artist roster through a strategic partnership between Universal Music Greater China (UMGC) and his music label, GREAT Entertainment. The alliance kicks off with the global release of Stupid Pop Songs, Tao’s first full-length album in 12 years — now available on all major digital platforms, with physical editions launching soon.
Described as a raw, irreverent 15-track collection, Stupid Pop Songs fuses Tao’s signature R&B sound with distorted guitars, experimental textures, and emotionally candid songwriting. The album reflects Tao’s continued refusal to conform, marking a bold evolution from his genre-defining early albums like David Tao, I’m OK, and Black Tangerine.
“This new chapter with Universal Music allows us to bring our creative work to a broader global stage,” said Tao, widely dubbed the “Godfather of Mandarin R&B.” UMGC CEO Timothy Xu added.
“David Tao is one of the most visionary and influential figures in Mandopop history. This alliance underscores our long-term investment in iconic artistry and reinforces our commitment to expanding the global reach of Mandarin pop.” Celebrating nearly three decades in music, Tao’s comeback represents both a celebration of legacy and a reimagining of Mandopop for global ears.
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.”
As the global music landscape continues to evolve, this partnership between David Tao and Universal Music Greater China signals a renewed commitment to artistic integrity and cultural resonance in the Mandopop genre. With Stupid Pop Songs, Tao reaffirms his legacy, not by revisiting the past, where the memories are resonant and positively etched with the music community; instead, but by boldly reimagining what Mandarin pop can be. In joining forces with UMG, Tao’s message is clear: Mandarin music has a place on the world stage, and it has never sounded more personal, playful, or powerful.
Image Credit: Universal Music
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