UK-based Virtuoso Music has officially launched its operations in India, aiming to significantly expand its footprint within one of the world's most dynamic and rapidly growing music markets. The company plans to produce and distribute original music content across multiple Indian languages, tapping into the country's booming digital music streaming ecosystem.
Virtuoso Music will engage across the entire music value chain, encompassing original music creation, comprehensive rights management, robust artist development programs, and efficient digital distribution. Production efforts are already underway for Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu repertoire, with the first releases anticipated in early 2027.
Capitalizing on India's Digital Music Boom
India's recorded music industry is experiencing consistent growth, fueled by increasing audio streaming consumption, widespread smartphone penetration, and a surging demand for regional-language content. According to the FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment Report 2026, India's music segment expanded by 10% in 2025, reaching ₹59 billion. The report forecasts continued growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9% through 2028, projecting an industry value of approximately ₹75 billion.
The nation recorded an estimated 178 million audio streaming users in 2025, underscoring a strong consumer shift towards digital music platforms. Industry experts attribute this expansion to affordable mobile internet, a mobile-first consumer base, and the rapid proliferation of vernacular music catalogues.
Supporting Artists and Sustainable Ecosystems
Beyond original music production, Virtuoso Music intends to provide a suite of services for artists and music rights holders, including catalogue management, digital distribution, sync licensing, and brand partnership opportunities. The company's strategy for India emphasizes supporting creators throughout the entire lifecycle of their music, helping them more effectively monetize their intellectual property.
Andrew Smith, Head of Digital Strategy at Virtuoso Music, highlighted the company's commitment to collaborating closely with Indian artists while respecting the nation's rich musical diversity.
"India has an extraordinary depth of musical talent across languages, genres and generations. We're here to work alongside that talent," Smith stated.
Sahaj Miya, Head of New Business and Music at Virtuoso Music, emphasized the company's dedication to fostering a more sustainable ecosystem for musicians.
"The future of the music ecosystem lies in ensuring that the people who create music have a genuine share in the success of their work," Miya added.
Regional Focus Driving Investment
The Indian music industry has attracted significant interest from both domestic and international players in recent years. This trend is driven by streaming platforms expanding their regional offerings and an increasing demand for independent artists alongside traditional film music. Music labels and distributors are intensifying investments in regional languages such as Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Marathi, reflecting evolving listening habits across the country.
Virtuoso Music expects to announce its initial slate of artist signings and industry partnerships in the coming months as it solidifies its presence in India. The company aims to be a full-service partner for creators, offering support through production, distribution, sync licensing, catalogue monetization, and brand collaborations in one of the world's fastest-growing music markets.