Warner Chappell Music launches direct publishing operations in India; Jay Mehta to lead unified WMG strategy

Warner Chappell Music (WCM), the publishing arm of Warner Music Group (WMG), on Wednesday announced the launch of direct operations in India, marking a shift from its earlier sub-publishing model to a full-scale local presence.

The move is aimed at giving Indian songwriters deeper access to WCM’s global creative network, rights management systems and technology stack, at a time when the country’s music economy is expanding rapidly.

Jay Mehta, managing director of Warner Music India since its 2020 launch, will lead the new division. In an expanded role, he will oversee both recorded music and publishing across India and neighbouring South Asian markets, creating a unified structure spanning master recordings and compositions.


Mehta will report jointly to Guy Moot and Lo Ting-Fai.

The launch comes amid strong growth in India’s music market. Data from CISAC shows domestic creator collections rose 42% year-on-year to ₹7 billion (about $75 million) in 2024. India is now the world’s 15th largest recorded music market, according to IFPI.

The industry is also undergoing a structural shift. Bollywood soundtracks, once accounting for roughly 80% of digital consumption, now contribute less than half, as independent and non-film music gains share. Domestic repertoire makes up 89% of music streaming, even as the market gradually transitions from ad-supported listening to paid subscriptions.

As part of its India push, WCM will provide songwriters access to studios at WMG’s Mumbai headquarters, positioning itself as the only major music company in the country with a localised, high-tech creative hub.

The company will also roll out its proprietary technology suite to Indian creators for the first time. This includes Global Match, an AI-driven royalty matching tool, alongside a client portal offering real-time earnings and catalogue tracking, and Pulse, a songwriter-focused app.

Robert Kyncl, CEO of WMG, concludes: “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."

“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,” said Mehta, managing director, recorded music and publishing, India and SAARC, WMG.

Guy Moot, co-chair and CEO, 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.”