IT all started when one of China’s youngest self-made millionaires, Zhang Jian, decided to up the ante in his e-commerce enterprise by expanding his business venture to the entertainment industry. Zhang, who has an estimated net worth of US$650 million (RM2.08 billion) according to Forbes magazine, is also on China’s rich list, currently at number 347.
Through his YSLM Alliance Network, he recently signed 11 local artistes under the YSLM Entertainment Agency. They are model Amber Chia, Miss Chinese Cosmos (International) 2004 Carrie Lee, actress Crystal Lee, radio presenter Wayne, TV host Wind, Astro Battleground 2008 champion Elecoldxhot, World Harmonica champion Keith Valentine, acclaimed magician Ken Woo, celebrity hairstylist Jiro Lee, Fly Nation band and veteran director MK Pak.
YSLM Entertainment Agency focuses on both local and international entertainment businesses while expanding cross-regional collaborations. It also provides a platform for local artistes to showcase their talents to the world.
Local actor Leslie Chai serves as the agency’s consultant. Known for his roles in TV series The Age Of Glory and Love Compulsory, Chai has reportedly invested a six-figure sum in the company.
At a Press conference recently, Chai said that his knowledge and experience in the creative industry would benefit the agency.
“I will be the agency’s middle man. If the agency wants someone who can sing or write songs, I help find talents and link the two parties together. The same goes in other creative fields including acting, production and filming,” he says.
He adds that the agency plans to open doors to more actors and singers “to promote our local entertainment industry further”. Chai will appear in mystery drama series 3.15AM, to be aired on 8TV in August.
Golden Goblet Best Actress winner Crystal Lee’s main focus after joining the agency is to release a mini album. “This will be a good time to come up with my own album and sing my own songs instead of covering songs by other artistes,” she says, adding that she is currently in talks to star in a new movie.
Lee says she doesn’t mind doing collaborative projects with local and international artistes. “I love songs with positive messages. I wouldn’t mind singing songs written by others as long as it celebrates lives and encourages people to do good,” she says.
Currently, the agency is also investing in film projects, lifestyle-related events and various commercials. Also operating under the agency’s big umbrella are YSLM Music House, YSLM Happy Wok, YSLM Full House and YSLM Close Production Unit.