TL;DR
- Riot Games collaborates with Universal Music Publishing Group for six original Worlds tracks
- Fourteen acclaimed Asian artists participated in July music camp to create championship songs
- Strategic focus on Chinese market while maintaining global appeal following K/DA success
- Complete Shanghai hosting with music releases scheduled throughout September-October tournament
- Enhanced production scale represents significant evolution in esports entertainment experiences
Riot Games has forged a groundbreaking alliance with Universal Music Publishing Group to produce six exclusive musical compositions for the 2020 League of Legends World Championship. This collaboration represents one of the most ambitious music initiatives in esports history, blending gaming culture with mainstream music production.
The innovative partnership featured an esports-themed creative workshop held in July, where fourteen distinguished Universal Music Group recording artists convened to craft the championship soundtrack. Featured musicians include regional stars like Matzka, Gong, Chiyo Monna, and additional prominent artists from across Asia.
While these artists may be less familiar to Western audiences, each has established substantial followings throughout Asian markets, particularly in China where the championship will be hosted. The roster includes recipients of prestigious honors like the Golden Melody Award and Best Brand Award, alongside performers who gained recognition through popular reality television programs.
The artist selection demonstrates Riot’s sophisticated understanding of regional music preferences and cultural relevance. This approach ensures authentic connection with local audiences while introducing international viewers to diverse musical styles.
The spectacular K/DA live performance during the 2019 World Championship set new standards for esports entertainment, featuring top K-pop celebrities. While Riot strategically targets its largest demographic base in Asia, the viral success of K/DA’s music demonstrated significant crossover appeal in Western markets and beyond.
Interesting partnership between UMG and Riot Games.
14 famous Universal Music Group artists will take part in an esports themed music camp to create six new songs for the promotion of the League of Legends Worlds 2020 finals.
pic.twitter.com/WXw0SDL9aF— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX)
August 17, 2020
Riot producing original music tracks for 2020 World Championship
Riot has consistently elevated its premier annual tournament through musical performances, and the 2020 championship continues this tradition with expanded ambition. The production of multiple original songs represents a substantial escalation in creative investment compared to previous years.
“When music intersects with gaming, the creative possibilities become truly exhilarating. I anticipate energizing and commemorating the tenth League of Legends World Championship through powerful, stylistically diverse music created in partnership with UMPG,” stated Leo Lin, Head of Riot Games China.
Recent announcements confirmed the event will be hosted exclusively in Shanghai, rather than the initially planned multi-city Chinese tour. This concentrated approach, combined with the music initiative, aims to generate exceptional audience engagement.
The 2020 World Championship commences on September 25, culminating with the finals on October 31. Musical releases are planned throughout the tournament period, with potential pre-event drops to build anticipation among the global community.
Action Checklist
- Follow Riot Games music channels for track release announcements
- Research featured Asian artists to appreciate cultural context
- Plan viewing schedule around key musical performance dates
- Engage with community discussions about new tracks on social platforms
No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » Riot Games partners up with Universal for new LoL Worlds songs Riot Games partners with Universal Music to create six original songs for 2020 Worlds Championship in Shanghai