Mumbai: Warner Chappell Music (WCM), the publishing division of Warner Music Group (WMG), has announced the launch of its direct operations in India, marking a significant shift from its earlier sub-publishing model to a full-fledged, direct-to-market presence.
The move is aimed at providing Indian songwriters with enhanced access to WCM’s global creative network, advanced rights management infrastructure, and cutting-edge technology platforms. It also underscores WMG’s long-term commitment to one of the world’s fastest-growing music markets.
As part of this expansion, Jay Mehta, who has served as Managing Director of Warner Music India since 2020, has been appointed to lead the newly integrated publishing and recorded music business across India and neighbouring South Asian markets. In his expanded role, Mehta will oversee a unified structure spanning both master recordings and compositions, enabling a more cohesive ecosystem for creators.
He will report jointly to Guy Moot, Co-Chair and CEO of WCM, and Lo Ting-Fai, President of Warner Music APAC.
The launch comes at a time when India’s music economy is witnessing rapid growth and transformation. According to CISAC data, domestic creator collections reached ₹7 billion (approximately US$75 million) in 2024, reflecting a 42% year-on-year increase. India has also emerged as the world’s 15th largest recorded music market, as per IFPI.
The country’s music landscape is increasingly diversifying, with independent and non-film music gaining prominence. While Bollywood once dominated digital consumption, its share has dropped significantly, with domestic repertoire now accounting for 89% of all streaming in India. Additionally, the industry is gradually transitioning from an ad-supported model to a subscription-driven ecosystem.
To support this evolving market, WCM will offer Indian songwriters access to its Mumbai-based studios and a suite of proprietary technologies, including AI-powered royalty matching tools, real-time earnings dashboards, and creator-focused applications designed to improve transparency and efficiency.
Commenting on the launch, Jay Mehta said, “India’s songwriters are world-class, constantly redefining genres and pushing creative boundaries. By establishing a direct footprint for Warner Chappell, we’re bridging the gap between local brilliance and global opportunity. We’re now positioned to offer Indian creators the sophisticated resources and international reach that only a world-leading publisher can provide, ensuring their music resonates on a global stage.”
Guy Moot and Carianne Marshall added, “India has some of the most talented songwriters in the world, and they are increasingly making their mark globally. What excites us most about this move is not just the expansion of our presence, but the opportunity to help shape an evolving publishing ecosystem that truly works for creators and ensures their music is heard, protected, and rewarded everywhere. With Jay Mehta at the helm and our global team behind him, our songwriters couldn’t be in better hands.”
Robert Kyncl concluded, “India is a key part of our global growth strategy, and the talent emerging there is truly world-class. By bringing our publishing and recorded music operations under Jay Mehta’s proven leadership, we’re creating a unified powerhouse that can better serve creators and fans alike. This is the right moment to double down on our investment in India’s vibrant creative economy.”
