Pony Canyon Announces Global Strategy in Los Angeles, CA

PONY CANYON INC. (“Pony Canyon”) held a press conference and reception on July 3rd, 2024, at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, an international outreach hub of Japan. The event drew the attention of approximately 130 entertainment industry insiders and media from Japan and the U.S., leaving the organizers pleased to see that even standing-room only guests had joined for the over- subscribed conference.

At the event, Pony Canyon expressed its intention to deliver content worldwide, focusing initially on the music and anime/film verticals. JAPAN HOUSE LOS ANGELES, which cooperated in the event, and the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles joined the event and offered words of encouragement. Pony Canyon positioned 2024 as its “Year of Global Expansion” under its multi-year “Cross the Border” management plan. Following the establishment of PONYCANYON ENTERTAINMENT TAIWAN INC. last month, they relaunched PONY CANYON USA INC. in Los Angeles, California, a crucial market for future global expansion.

In his opening remarks, President and CEO Takashi Yoshimura passionately stated that his “dream and Pony Canyon’s major goals are to win a Grammy and to win an Academy Award. At the very least, we want to be nominated. Please help us achieve these dreams and goals.” Inspired by such a bold message from Yoshimura, Kenko Sone, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, said, “I know Japanese content, music, and anime should have no borders, and will be accepted everywhere. But Japanese people are a little bit hesitant to go out. President Yoshimura has a big vision to bring Japanese content, music, and anime to the world. I really like the dream of winning the Oscar and the Grammy. Dream big. The important thing is to keep continuing and never give up! We, the Japanese government and JAPAN HOUSE are already, and always will continue, to support your future endeavors.”

Additionally, Yuko Kaifu, President of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, said in her opening remarks, “All Japanese efforts and US-Japan efforts need your help and support. The task for us is to work together in the coming months and years.” She stressed the need for more institutions and companies to vigorously support each other for the broad dissemination of Japanese content.

Yumi Yokoo, CEO of PONY CANYON USA INC. delivered her first public greeting, followed by Chief Strategy Officer Gabriel Bloch, who announced two new collaboration projects: “W KAWAII” and a forthcoming new global rock artist.

W KAWAII involves talent scouting, real-world production, and management by ASOBISYSTEM, which has been known for challenging the overseas market with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu for over ten years. Activ8, strong in virtual IP production with talents like Kizuna AI, will handle virtual production, planning, and creation, while Pony Canyon will be involved in music production and promotion, and PONY CANYON USA INC. will handle overseas strategy.

For the new global rock artist, Pony Canyon has partnered with GRIP, a significant presence in Japan’s loud rock scene, and Hopeless Records, a U.S.-based label known for producing many globally-renowned rock bands. Together, the companies aim to launch new cross-over bands and artists that succeed across national and cultural boundaries.