Zhang Liangying (L) and Zhang Songhui, the president of Universal Records of Greater China [CRI]

Mainland pop singer Zhang Liangying (Jane Zhang) signed with world's leading record line Universal Records on Wednesday, her agent company comfirmed.

The deal ended the long media speculation of the singer's next move after she broke up with her previous label Huayi Music, a front-running record group in the mainland market.

Rumor broke out when Zhang's three-year record deal with Huayi Music expired in February, that she would turn to SONY/BMG for a wider overseas promotion she had long craved. But SONY/BMG didn't respond directly to it then.

Later in April, Wang Zhongjun, the president of Huayi, confirmed his brand would not extend the deal with Zhang Liangying who was soon to launch her own label Show City Entertainment, an affiliated company to Huayi. With part of the ownership in her hand, Zhang will be totally in charge of her music-related issues.

It is reported that Universal Records has been in touch with Zhang Liangying in person many times before reaching the final deal covering record production, publication and promotion for Zhang and other singers under her Show City label, especially offering publicity support for her music in the global market.

Zhang Liangying rose to the mainland pop scene after she finished third place on the blockbuster TV talent show "Super Girl" in 2005. She's been acclaimed for her outstanding singing talent among all "Super Girl" contestants, and mostly, her capability of performing Western pop classics.

The singer has till now released four full-length albums under Huayi label and had several hit singles on her merit list. She's seen as one of the most competitive songstresses to reign the mainland mando-pop scene.

(CRI June 19, 2009)