Sony Music Entertainment Japan

{{short description|Japanese entertainment conglomerate}} {{for|the American music recording company within the Sony corporation|Sony Music}} {{Use mdy dates|date=October 2022}} {{Infobox company | name = Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. | logo = Sony Music Japan Group.svg | logo_size = 220px | logo_caption = Logo used since 1997 | image = SME Rokubancho Building.jpg | former_name = CBS/Sony Records Inc. (1968–1983)<br>CBS/Sony Group, Inc. (1983–1991) | type = Subsidiary | image_caption = Headquarters of SMEJ in Rokubanchō, Chiyoda, Tokyo | native_name = 株式会社ソニー・ミュージックエンタテインメント | native_name_lang = ja | romanized_name = Kabushiki gaisha Sonī Myūjikku Entateinmento | founded = {{start date and age|df=y|1968|03|11}} | hq_location = 4–5 Rokubanchō | hq_location_city = Chiyoda, Tokyo | hq_location_country = Japan | key_people = Atsuhiro Iwakami (president and CEO) | industry = Entertainment | area_served = Japan | revenue = {{increase}} {{JPY|447,2 billion|link=yes}} | revenue_year = FY24 | num_employees = 5.000 | subsid = See § Subsidiaries | parent = CBS Records Group (1968–1988)<br>Sony Group Corporation (1968–present) | website = {{ubl|{{URL|https://www.sme.co.jp|sme.co.jp}}|{{URL|https://www.sonymusic.co.jp|sonymusic.co.jp}}}} }}

'''Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc.''' ('''SMEJ'''), also known as '''Sony Music Japan''', is a Japanese entertainment company wholly owned by Sony Group Corporation. SMEJ's extensive operations encompass record labels, music publishing, anime production, and event organization. Founded in 1968 as '''CBS/Sony''', the company operates independently from the United States–based Sony Music Entertainment due to its diversity and strength in the Japanese market. Its prominent subsidiaries include Sony Music Labels, which manages and operates its various record labels; Sony Music Solutions, which provides comprehensive support services like physical distribution, merchandise sales, and event planning; and the animation production company, Aniplex.

The company holds a dominant position in the Anime song market, with its artists providing songs for several series per year. Sony Music Japan has long utilized anime productions as a major platform for its artists, particularly through its subsidiary Aniplex. The establishment of the Sacra Music label in 2017 further cemented this focus, dedicated specifically to managing artists prominent in the anisong genre, such as LiSA and Aimer. This strategy leverages the global popularity of anime titles to propel Japanese artists to international audiences.

Sony Music does not hold the trademark rights to the Columbia name in Japan; therefore, releases from Columbia Records (outside of Japan) are issued under the Sony Records label in Japan, though it retains the usage of the "walking eye" logo. The rights to the Columbia name and trademark are instead controlled by Nippon Columbia, which served as the licensee for the American Columbia Records until 1968.

With Sony Corporation of America's buyout of Bertelsmann's stake in Sony BMG, Sony Music Entertainment Japan stepped in to acquire outstanding shares of BMG Japan from Sony BMG, making it a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Music Japan.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.sony.co.jp/SonyInfo/IR/news/qfhh7c00000jbz2m-att/081002_SMEJ.pdf | title = Acquisition of Shares in BMG Japan Inc. by Sony Music Entertainment Japan Inc. (Japanese) | publisher=Sony Corporation | date=October 2, 2008 | access-date=December 31, 2009 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722095052/https://www.sony.co.jp/SonyInfo/IR/news/qfhh7c00000jbz2m-att/081002_SMEJ.pdf | archive-date=July 22, 2011 }}</ref>

== History == === Beginnings as CBS joint venture === The idea for a CBS/Sony joint venture came in 1967 from Harvey Schein, then President of Columbia Records International, who had spent a decade traveling the world building CBS's international company. In 1972, Schein would leave CBS to become the president of Sony Corporation of America.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sony History Chapter 18 The Strong-Willed Schein |url=https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/CorporateInfo/History/SonyHistory/2-18.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251119211344/https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/CorporateInfo/History/SonyHistory/2-18.html |archive-date=2025-11-19 |access-date=2026-05-21 |website=Sony Group Portal |language=en}}</ref>

Sony Music Entertainment Japan was officially incorporated in March 1968<ref name="history">''[https://www.sme.co.jp/sme/corporate/sme.html Sony Music Entertainment Japan – History] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225050058/http://www.sme.co.jp/sme/corporate/sme.html |date=December 25, 2016 }}'' Retrieved September 15, 2010</ref> as a Tokyo-based 50/50 joint venture between Sony and U.S. conglomerate CBS to distribute the latter's music releases in Japan. The company was incorporated as CBS/Sony Records and with Sony co-founder Akio Morita as president.<ref>Kimio Kase, Francisco J. Sáez-Martínez, Hernán Riquelme: Transformational CEOs: Leadership and Management Success in Japan. Edward Elgar Publishing, 2005, {{ISBN|1-84542-046-2}}. Page 16.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sonymusic.co.uk/uk/history.php |title=''Sony and the Modern Age'' |access-date=September 14, 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010217164509/http://www.sonymusic.co.uk/uk/history.php |archive-date=February 17, 2001 }}. Sony Music UK, Retrieved on August 6, 2006.</ref><ref>''[https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/CorporateInfo/History/SonyHistory/2-22.html#block2 CBS/Sony Records is Established in First Round of Capital Deregulation.]'' Sony History. Retrieved September 15, 2010.</ref>

Norio Ohga, who himself was a musician, was part of the management team from the formation of the company and served as president and representative director since April 1970.<ref>Press release: [https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/News/Press_Archive/200301/03-003E/ Chairman of the Board Norio Ohga Retires as Director of Sony Corporation.] Sony Corporation, January 28, 2003. Retrieved September 15, 2010</ref><ref>John Nathan: ''Sony.'' Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 2001, {{ISBN|0-618-12694-5}}. Pages 146–147.</ref> In 1972, when CBS/Sony was generating robust profits, Ohga was named chairman and, at the same time, gained further responsibility and influence within Sony. He would continue to work for the music company one morning a week.<ref>John Nathan: ''Sony.'' Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 2001, {{ISBN|0-618-12694-5}}. Page 147.</ref> In 1980, Toshio Ozawa succeeded Ohga as president.<ref>''[https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/CorporateInfo/History/SonyHistory/2-22.html#block4 The Joy of Creating Something New.]'' Sony History. Accessed September 17, 2010.</ref>

In 1983, the company was renamed CBS/Sony Group.<ref name="history" />

=== Sony acquires The CBS Records Group in 1988 === In January 1988, after more than a year of negotiations, Sony acquired the CBS Records Group and the 50% of CBS/Sony Group that it did not already own.<ref>''[https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/CorporateInfo/History/SonyHistory/2-22.html#block5 The Acquisition of CBS Records and Columbia Pictures.]'' Sony History. Accessed September 27, 2010.</ref>

In March 1988, four wholly owned subsidiaries were folded into CBS/Sony Group: CBS/Sony Inc., Epic/Sony Records Inc., CBS/Sony Records Inc. and Sony Video Software International.<ref name="history" /><ref>''CBS/Sony to Take Over 4 Subsidiaries.'' Jiji Press Ticker Service, February 12, 1988</ref>

The company was renamed Sony Music Entertainment (Japan), Inc.

On November 22, 1991, Sony Music began trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, initially offered at its 6,800 yen per share subscription price, but fell to 5,700 yen due to no buyers.<ref>{{cite news |title=Stones help sink Sony Music's Tokyo debut |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19911125-1.2.12.8 |work=Business Times (Singapore) |agency=Reuters |date=November 25, 1991}}</ref>

Shugo Matsuo was named new president in January 1992, replacing Toshio Ozawa, who was appointed to the post of chairman.<ref name="sony-names-matsuo-1992">Steve McClure: ''Sony Music Names Matsuo to Head Label in Japan'' In: Billboard, February 8, 1992. Page 4.</ref>

Overall sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1991, were 83.8 billion yen with a pretax profit of 9.2 billion yen.<ref name="sony-names-matsuo-1992" />

In June 1996, Ryokichi Kunugi became the new president. Shugo Matsuo was named chairman.<ref>[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-05-03-ca-137-story.html Attorneys Launch Entertainment-Focused Firm] In: Los Angeles Times, May 3, 1996. Accessed September 17, 2010.</ref>

Shigeo Maruyama was appointed to the new post of CEO on October 1, 1997, and replaced Kunugi as president in February 1998.<ref name="new-president" />

In August 1998, the logo was changed from the original "Walking Eye" to the current one.

As of 2019, Mizuno Michinori is the official CEO of the company.

In May 2018, SMEJ, through its Sony Creative Products division, acquired a 39% stake in the ''Peanuts'' comic strip franchise from DHX Media.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/sony-music-pays-185m-to-buy-39-in-snoopy-cartoon-company-peanuts|title=Sony Music Entertainment Japan pays $185m to buy 39% in Snoopy cartoon company Peanuts – Music Business Worldwide|date=May 14, 2018}}</ref>

=== Unties === {{anchor|Unties}} Sony Music Entertainment announced the launch of its first video game publishing label, Unties, in October 2017. Unties will publish indie games for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation VR, Nintendo Switch, and PC. The name was selected by Sony as representative of helping to "unleash" the power of independent video game development and "unshackle" such developers from the traditional video game publishing process.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-10-17-sony-music-to-release-indie-game-on-nintendo-switch | title = Sony to release indie game on Nintendo Switch | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = October 17, 2017 | access-date = October 17, 2017 | work = Eurogamer }}</ref>

Unties' first release was ''Tiny Metal'', a turn-based tactics video game developed by Area 35, for the Nintendo Switch, PS4, and PC. The game was first premiered at PAX West Indie Megabooth.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/17/16488326/sony-nintendo-switch-game-tiny-metal-unties-label|title=A new Sony label's publishing a Nintendo Switch game|work=Polygon|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref> Published ''Azure Reflections'', a side-scrolling bullet hell developed by Souvenir Circ., on May 15, 2018, for the PS4.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/318141/Sony_Publishing_Label_Unties_Games_Rains_Bullet_Hell_Down_on_PlayStation_4_Today_with_Release_of_Azure_Reflections.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025103507/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/318141/Sony_Publishing_Label_Unties_Games_Rains_Bullet_Hell_Down_on_PlayStation_4_Today_with_Release_of_Azure_Reflections.php|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 25, 2018|title=Sony Publishing Label Unties Games Rains Bullet Hell Down on PlayStation 4 Today with Release of Azure Reflections|access-date=November 21, 2018|language=en}}</ref> Published Touhou Gensou Wanderers Reloaded, a roguelike rpg developed by Aqua Style, for the PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://gematsu.com/2018/08/unties-announces-pax-west-2018-lineup|title=Unties announces PAX West 2018 lineup – Gematsu|date=August 22, 2018|work=Gematsu|access-date=November 21, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Published ''Necrosphere'', a platformer developed by Cat Nigiri, for the PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, and PSVita.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.catnigiri.com/presskit/|title=Cat Nigiri|website=www.catnigiri.com|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref> Published ''Midnight Sanctuary'', a VR/3D Novel game developed by CAVYHOUSE, for the PS4, Nintendo Switch and PC.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.carpefulgur.com/tms/top.html|title=The Midnight Sanctuary: Guide Side -Home-|website=www.carpefulgur.com|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref> Published Tokyo Dark, a visual novel mystery adventure hybrid developed by Cherrymochi, for the PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.tokyodark.com/presskit/sheet.php?p=Tokyo_Dark|title=Cherrymochi|website=www.tokyodark.com|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Published ''Chiki-Chiki Boxy Racers,'' an arcade racing game developed by Pocket, for the Nintendo Switch on August 30, 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/chiki-chiki-boxy-racers/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch|title=Chiki-Chiki Boxy Racers|website=Metacritic|language=en|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish on ''Last Standard'', a 3d action game developed by I From Japan, intended for PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.i-fromjapan.com/|title=I From Japan|website=I From Japan|language=ja|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://unties.com/en/|title=UNTIES Games for everyone|website=UNTIES Games for everyone|language=en|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref> Scheduled to publish ''The Good Life'', a daily-life rpg developed by White Owls Inc., for the PS4 and PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/476090608/the-good-life?ref=aklspb|title=The Good Life|website=Kickstarter|language=en-US|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish ''Merkava Avalanche'', a 3d cavalry warfare action game developed by WinterCrownWorks, for the PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://winter-crown-works.com/merkava/|title=Merkava Avalanche[メルカバ・アバランチ]│OFFICIAL SITE|website=Merkava Avalanche[メルカバ・アバランチ]│OFFICIAL SITE|language=ja|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish ''Olija'', an action adventure game developed by Skeleton Crew Studio, for the PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.skeletoncrew.co.jp/en/work/|title=Skeleton Crew Studio – Work|website=Skeleton Crew Studio|language=en|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish ''Deemo Reborn'', a music rhythm and urban fantasy game developed by Taiwanese studio Rayak, for the PS4 with PSVR support.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish ''Giraffe and Anika'', a 3d adventure game developed by Atelier Mimina, for the PS4, Nintendo Switch and PC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.giraffeandannika.com/english|title=ジラフとアンニカ Giraffe and annika ジラフとアンニカ公式 ３Dアドベンチャーゲーム|website=ジラフとアンニカ Giraffe and annika ジラフとアンニカ公式 ３Dアドベンチャーゲーム|language=ja|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish 3rd Eye, a 2d horror exploration game, based on the Touhou franchise, for the PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://3rdeye.sai-chan.com/en/|title=3rd eye|access-date=November 21, 2018|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Scheduled to publish Gensokyo Defenders, a tower-defense game developed by Neetpia, for the PS4 and Nintendo Switch.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://neetpia.sakura.ne.jp/works/GensoukyouDefenders/en/index.html|title=Gensokyo Defenders|last=Neetpia|website=neetpia.sakura.ne.jp|access-date=November 21, 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> In 2019, Unties was dropped from the Sony group and became the new company Phoenixx.

=== Increased competition === The company's leading role on the Japanese market was increasingly challenged by labels such as Avex (where SMEJ formerly owned 5 percent of shares).<ref name="new-president">Steve McClure: [https://books.google.com/books?id=Eg8EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA10 "CEO Maruyama Steps Up as New SMEJ President".] In ''Billboard'', February 28, 1998.</ref><ref name="announcements">Steve McClure: ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=Eg8EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA85 SMEJ's Other Announcements, "Komuro's Sony Deal Won't Hurt Avex Relations" – Maruyama.]'' In: Billboard, February 28, 1998.</ref> Net sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1997, were down 10% to 103 billion yen, while net income fell 41% to 7.7 billion yen.<ref name="announcements" /> The market share at that time was less than 18%.<ref name="announcements" /> In August 1997, Dreams Come True, until that point Sony Music Entertainment Japan's best-selling act, signed a worldwide multi-album deal with competing U.S. label Virgin Records America.<ref>''[https://books.google.com/books?id=_gkEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA8-IA1 Virgin's Dreams Come True.]'' In: Billboard, August 20, 1997.</ref>

Since then, it was said that SMEJ ceded to Avex's challenge,<ref>[http://www.cnngo.com/tokyo/none/kana-nishino-gyarus-favorite-new-singer-444774 Kana Nishino | CNN Travel]. Cnngo.com (December 11, 2009). Retrieved on 2013-07-16.</ref> but SMEJ bounced back and regained leadership from its indie rival until 2012. SMEJ netted 22.4 billion yen for 1H 2012 and 14.3% of the market, second behind Avex (24.95 B yen, 15.9%).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/news/2014534/full/|title=Avex tops total sales ranking for the first half of 2012|publisher=Oricon|date=July 20, 2012|access-date=August 15, 2012}}</ref>

In May 2017, SMEJ, through subsidiary Sony Music Marketing (now Sony Music Solutions), acquired the physical retail and distribution rights to releases of another rival, Warner Music Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicman.co.jp/business/16192|title=ワーナー、CD/DVD等パッケージ商品の小売販売・流通業務をソニー・ミュージックマーケティングへ委託|trans-title=Warner, outsources retail sales and distribution of packaged products such as CD / DVD to Sony Music Marketing|author=|date=May 31, 2017|website=Musicman|language=ja|accessdate=July 10, 2022}}</ref>

On June 11, 2025, SMEJ, via Sony Music Labels, acquired the rights to the ''Spookiz'' series, including its characters from Keyring.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/sony-music-entertainment-japan-acquires-global-rights-to-spookiz-animation-franchise/|title=SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT JAPAN ACQUIRES ‘FULL RIGHTS’ TO SPOOKIZ ANIMATION FRANCHISE|date=2025-06-15|first=Mandy|last=Dalugdug|work=Music Business Worldwide|access-date=2026-01-11}}</ref>

On April 1, 2026, SMEJ and Universal Music Japan launched a joint venture company Nine by Nine, aiming to operating music festivals in Asia.<ref>{{cite news |title=SMEとユニバーサルミュージック、アジアでの音���フェスティバル事業を目的とした合弁会社「NINE BY NINE」設立 |url=https://www.musicman.co.jp/business/719681 |access-date=April 13, 2026 |work=Musicman |date=April 2, 2026 |language=ja}}</ref>

== Group companies == === Aniplex === thumb|right|250px|Aniplex logo since 2003 {{Main|Aniplex}}

'''Aniplex Inc.''' is the SMEJ subsidiary responsible for the production, distribution and licensing of Japanese animation and related media. Established in September 1995, it became a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Music Japan in 2001. Aniplex has been involved in various major anime franchises like Fullmetal Alchemist, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, and Demon Slayer. The company also produces stage plays and publishes video games, notably the highly successful mobile game ''Fate/Grand Order''.

=== Sony Music Labels === thumb|right|250px|Sony Music (Japan) Logo '''Sony Music Labels Inc.''' (SML) is the primary subsidiary of SMEJ's music division, tasked with the consolidated management and operation of the company's many record labels and large musical artist roster. SML was established to create a unified strategy across various genres and market segments. Its high-profile imprints include Sony Music Records, Epic Records Japan, Ki/oon Music, and Sacra Music.

=== Sony Music Solutions === thumb|right|250px|The headquarters of Sony Music Solutions is located in the Tokyo Midtown Tower.

'''Sony Music Solutions Inc.''' (SMS) serves as the comprehensive services and infrastructure arm of SMEJ. Its extensive responsibilities include the manufacturing, packaging, and physical distribution of music and video content for all group labels. Beyond logistics, SMS is the key provider for fan-facing activities, managing concert and live event production, organizing 2.5D musicals and exhibitions, overseeing the planning and sales of merchandise, and operating official fan clubs. The subsidiary also develops various digital and technology-based solutions to support the group's entertainment businesses.

=== Sony Music Artists ===

'''Sony Music Artists Inc.''' (SMA) is the major talent and artist management agency within the SMEJ group. It handles the careers of numerous Japanese musicians, actors, voice actors, and tarento. SMA provides management, booking, and promotional services, operating as a crucial link between the artists and the recording labels and production houses.

===MusicRay'n Inc.===

'''MusicRay'n Inc.''' is a talent management agency specializing in voice acting and music. It focuses on the discovery and development of Seiyū.

== Labels and sublabels == === Active ===

* Sony Music Labels ** Sony Music Records *** Sony Records – formerly known as CBS/Sony since 1968 *** GR8! Records (read "G-R-eight") – founded April 2003 *** Mastersix Foundation **** No Label Music – vanity label founded by Chanmina *** N46Div. *** Seed & Flower *** 22/7 *** Niagara Records – private label of Eiichi Ohtaki *** Sony Music Japan International – distribution label for music from international version of Sony Music ** Echoes ** Epic Records Japan – formerly known as Epic/Sony since 1971 ** Ki/oon Music – launched as Ki/oon Sony Records on April 1, 1992<ref name="billboard-international-1992-04">''International – Newsline.'' In: Billboard, April 25, 1992. Page 36</ref> ** SME Records – founded in 1998 and took over the Japanese anime television series "Pocket Monsters" since 2013. ** Sony Music Associated Records – given this name in 2001.<ref>Stevens. Japanese Popular Music: Culture, Authenticity and Power. Routledge. 2008. [https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=OHMkdcL9DAMC&pg=PA156#v=onepage&q&f=false p 156].</ref><ref>[https://www.sme.co.jp/company/history/ 沿革]. Sony Music Group.</ref> *** Onenation – joint venture with LDH Japan ** Ariola Japan – formerly known as BMG Japan until October 2009.<ref>[https://www.sme.co.jp/en/company/history/ History | Company Information | Sony Music Group Corporate Site]. Sme.co.jp. Retrieved on February 14, 2019.</ref> ** Sacra Music – anison label since 2017 ** Sony Music Direct – founded as Sony Music House in 1996. Continues to use "Walking Eye" logo. Became part of Sony Music Labels in 2022.

=== Defunct === * Dohb Discs (1994–2000) * Antinos Records – launched in 1994 with Sony Music director Shigeo Maruyama as its president. The first releases on August 21 were a mini-album by indie group Confusion and singles by the groups Aniss, Neverending Story, and Ginji Itoh.<ref name="sony-bows-1994">Steve McClure: ''Sony Bows Two Japan Subsids.'' In: Billboard, October 15, 1994. Page 53.</ref> (1994–2004, merged into Epic Records Japan) * Studioseven Recordings (2006–2010, merged into Gr8! Records) * Tofu Records (US sub-label, 2003–2007) * Defstar Records – (2000–2015, merged into SME Records) * Pikachu Records – (1997–2012, merged into SME Records and Sony Music Labels) * VVV records * OKeh – launched in 1994 and headed by Sony Music deputy president Hiroshi Inagaki.<ref name="sony-bows-1994" /> * Former sub-labels of Sony Music Associated Records ** True Kiss Disc – private label of Tetsuya Komuro ** Tributelink – Temporary label in 2001 ** Terry Dollar Records – formerly private label of Oreskaband ** Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Records – (2005–2010) * Former sub-labels of Ki/oon Music ** Fitz Beat<ref name="billboard-international-1992-04" /> ** Haunted Records ** Ki/oon Records2 ** Neosite ** Siren Song – formerly private label of X Japan<ref name="billboard-international-1992-04" /> ** Trefort<ref name="billboard-international-1992-04" /> * Former Aniplex subsidiaries (on behalf of Crunchyroll LLC (with Sony Pictures)) ** 5 Point Pictures ** Funimation ** Right Stuf ** VRV ** Wakanim * Quatro A

=== Other services === * Antinos Management America Inc. – Overseas marketing and promotion of SMEJ artists<ref>{{cite web |title=Nadeshiko Nakahara |url=https://project-anime.org/team-member/nadeshiko-nakahara/ |website=Project Anime |access-date=20 October 2023}}</ref> * Monogatary.com – Named after a stylized romanization of {{nihongo3|'story'|物語|monogatari}}, a social networking service about creative writing and illustrations founded in October 2017.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=monogatary.comのコンテスト「モノコン2019」開幕。90日後に、ホラードラマやコミック、オーディオブック等の原作者が誕生。 |url=https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000038.000014577.html |access-date=June 22, 2022 |website=プレスリリース・ニュースリリース配信シェアNo.1｜PR TIMES}}</ref> Has collaborated with SMEJ artists, most notably Yoasobi, which was initially formed to create music based on selected stories on the site.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Japan |first=Billboard |date=July 1, 2020 |title=Rising J-Pop Duo YOASOBI Reveal Influences From Anime to Folk: Interview |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/japan-pop-duo-yoasobi-influences-interview-watch-videos-9412439/ |access-date=June 22, 2022 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":12" /> * Sony Creative Products – Character & Franchise licensing/distribution in the Japanese market, usually working with overseas characters, such as the ''Peanuts'' franchise{{Efn|SCP held the licensing rights of Peanuts in Japan since 2010. Later in 2018, SMEJ bought 39% of DHX Media's stake in Peanuts Worldwide LLC.}} and Pingu. * Zepp Hall Network Inc. – Operates 11 concert halls in Japan, Taiwan and Malaysia

== Notable artists == {{columns-list|colwidth=16em| * 2AM * 2PM * 9nine * 9Lana * Abingdon Boys School * Access * Aco * Aimer * AKB48 (2006–2008) * Aki Toyosaki * ALI * Alpha Drive One * Ami Suzuki (1998–2001) * An Cafe * And2ble * Angela Aki * Aoi Eir * Aqua Timez * Asian Kung-Fu Generation * Automatic Loveletter * Ayahi Takagaki * Babymonster * Beat Crusaders * Boom Boom Satellites * The Boss * The Boyz * The Brilliant Green * Buckethead * Chai * Chara (1990–2004, 2012–present) * Chemistry * Chiaki Kuriyama * Cinder Road * ClariS * Coldrain * Cool Joke * The Cro-Magnons * Creepy Nuts * Crossfaith * Crystal Kay (1999–2011) * Dancing Dolls * Dead or Alive * Debbie Gibson * Depapepe * Denki Groove * Dir En Grey * Does * Dreams Come True * Egoist * Eric Martin * Fight Like Apes * Flow * Galileo Galilei * Garnidelia (2014–2021) * The Gazette * Got7 (2014–2021) * Halcali * Hajime Chitose * Haruka Tomatsu * Harumi Tsuyuzaki * Hikaru Utada * Himeka (2009–2012) * Hinatazaka46 * Hitorie * Home Made Kazoku * Hyde * I Am Ghost * I Wish * Ive * Ikimono Gakari * Ikue Ōtani * Jasmine * Jinn * Joe Inoue * Judy Ongg * Jay Sean * Judy and Mary (1991–2001) * June * JY * K * Kalafina (2007–2019) * Kana Hanazawa (2012–2021) * Kana Nishino * Kelun * Ken Hirai * Kenshi Yonezu * Kep1er * King Gnu * Konomi Suzuki * Kotaro Oshio * Kung Faux * L'Arc-en-Ciel * Lama * Led Zepagain * Little by Little * Ling Tosite Sigure * LiSA * Loick Essien * Long Shot Party * Luna Haruna * Maboroshi * Mai Hoshimura * Man with a Mission * Masahiko Kondō * Masakazu Morita * Mayu Watanabe * MBLAQ * Meisa Kuroki * Michi/michimemoir * MiChi * Miho Fukuhara * Mika Nakashima * Milet * Miliyah Kato * Minako Kotobuki * Minami Kuribayashi * Miwa * Miyu Nagase * Mucc (2011–2017) * Nami Tamaki * Nana Kitade * Naniwa Express * Natsume Mito * Nexz * Nico Touches the Walls * NiziU * No3b (2008–2013) * Nobodyknows * Nogizaka46 * Nothing's Carved in Stone * NU'EST * Oh My Girl * Orange Range * Oreskaband * Piko * Polysics * Porno Graffitti * Prague * Puffy AmiYumi (1996–2015) * Rei Yasuda * Reol * ReoNa * Rie Fu * Rina Chinen * Rica Matsumoto * Rize * Rythem * Sachiko Kobayashi * Saki Kubota (1979–1984) * Sakurazaka46 * Sambomaster * [[Hiroyuki Sawano|SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]]] * Sayaka Kanda * Scandal * School Food Punishment * Seamo (2002–2011; 2019–) * Secret (2011–2013) * Seiko Matsuda * Siam Shade * Shinichi Osawa * Shion Tsuji * Shoko Nakagawa * SID * SixTones * Soul'd Out * Soulhead * Sowelu * Spyair * Stance Punks * Stephanie * Stereopony * Stray Kids * SunSet Swish * Supercell * T.M.Revolution * Tamio Okuda * TFN * TiA * TripleS * TK from Ling Losite Sigure * Totalfat * Tomoko Kawase * Tomohisa Sako * Tomohisa Yamashita * Toshinobu Kubota * Tube * Uri Nakayama * Uverworld * Vaundy * Whitesnake (1982–1994) * Wonder Girls * X Japan * Yellow Generation * Yoasobi * Yoshida Brothers * Younha * Yui * Yuna Ito * Yuya Matsushita * Zebrahead * Zerobaseone * Zone }}

=== Actors === {{columns-list|colwidth=15em| * Ken Ishiguro * Satoshi Ichijo * Yuki Ito * Shota Inoue * Shutaro Kadoshi * Kyôhei Kanomi * Yuki Kura * Ryo Takasugi * Ryo Narita * Nishikiori Gekidan * Kazuhiko Nishimura * Rio Masuzawa * Meguro-eup * Yuki Morinaga * Yuma Yamoto * Daichi Watanabe * Yutaro Watanabe }}

=== Actress === {{columns-list|colwidth=15em| * Misato Aoyama * Haruka Echigo * Maya Okano * Ririka Kato * Miho Kitagawa * Yuki Kimoto * Sayu Kubota * Kana Kurashina * Kokusho Sayuri * Yuki Saso * Saki Sato * Hakusan Himeashi * Riho Takada * Rina Takeda * Tao Tsuchiya * Eriko Tomiyama * Riko Nagase * Natsukawa Asa * Fumi Nikaido * Tomoko Nozaki * Ai Hashimoto * Mayumi Hasegawa * Kaoru Hirata * Kiyo Matsumoto * Misato Morita * Nana Mori * Kanna Mori * Ririka * Misako Renbutsu }}

== Other people == * Norio Ohga * Akio Morita * Toshio Ozawa * Shugo Matsuo * Ryokichi Kunugi * Shigeo Maruyama * Takashi Yoshida† (died 2010, transferred to Warner Music before death) * Vivid * Hiroshi Inagaki (now on Avex Group) * Naoki Kitagawa * Kazutomo Enomoto * Yaz Noya (Tofu Records founder) * Nozomi Sasaki *Masatoshi Sakai† (record producer from 1968, died 2021)<ref>[https://mainichi.jp/articles/20210719/k00/00m/040/098000c 音楽プロデューサー酒井政利さん死去 85歳 山口百恵さんら手掛け]. Mainichi Shimbun. 19 July 2021.</ref>

== See also == * Sony Music Entertainment * BMG Japan * Music On! TV – SMEJ-owned cable TV network

=== Key rivals === * Avex Group (once an affiliate of Sony Music, also the 2nd biggest record label in Japan)<ref name="Billboard">{{cite journal|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Eg8EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA85 |title=Billboard |publisher=Nielsen Business Media |date=February 28, 1998 |access-date=December 31, 2012 |issue=9 |volume=110 |pages=85 |issn=0006-2510}}</ref> * Universal Music Japan * Warner Music Japan

== Notes == {{notelist}}

== References == {{reflist}}

== External links == * [https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/ Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. official website] * {{YouTube|user=sonymusicnetwork}}

{{Sony Music}} {{Sony Corp}} {{IFPI members in Japan}} {{Music of Japan}} {{Authority control}}

Category:Sony Music Entertainment Japan Music Entertainment Japan Category:Sony Music Category:Japanese record labels Category:Record labels established in 1968 Category:Entertainment companies of Japan Category:Mass media companies based in Tokyo Category:IFPI members Category:Chiyoda, Tokyo Category:Japanese companies established in 1968 Category:Former joint ventures