UMG Launches Def Jam Africa

• Universal Music Group (UMG) announced the launch of Def Jam Africa, a new label division within the continent dedicated to representing the best hip-hop, Afrobeats and trap talent in Africa. The label will initially be based in Johannesburg, South Africa and Lagos, Nigeria, but will identify and sign artist talent from across the entire continent. It will be supported by dedicated A&R, marketing, creative and digital teams from the UMG teams in both Nigeria and South Africa and report to Sipho Dlamini, MD, Universal Music Sub-Saharan Africa & South Africa.

The label launches with a flagship roster that includes some of the most influential, successful African talent, including: (top row, l-r): Larry Gaaga, Boity, Tshego; (middle row, l-r): Nadia Nakai, Cassper Nyovest, Nasty C; (bottom row, l-r): Ricky Tyler, Vector, Tellaman.

In making the announcement, Sipho Dlamini said, “For those into hip-hop, no label has such cultural and historic relevance as Def Jam. Def Jam has always been the ultimate destination for hip-hop and urban culture worldwide. It is a historic achievement that we’re now able to bring this iconic label to Africa, to create an authentic and trusted home for those who aspire to be the best in hip-hop, Afrobeats and trap. Together, we will build a new community of artists that will push the boundaries of hip-hop from Africa, to reach new audiences globally.”

Jeff Harleston, Interim Chairman & CEO of Def Jam Recordings said, “Def Jam is a globally recognized brand, synonymous with excellence in hip-hop, and we enthusiastically welcome the launch of Def Jam Africa as an opportunity for audiences worldwide to discover the incredibly talented hip-hop artists emerging from across the continent.”