Ghanaian singer Stonebwoy, who is among the most influential names in African music, has turned to Universal Music imprint Def Jam Africa to steer the next chapter of his journey, which begins with the release of his fifth album in mid-2022.
The multiple award-winning singer reiterated that he will focus on the genres he excels in regardless of the posturing of DefJam. The record label is known for bringing into the limelight hip-hop and R&B musicians, whereas Stonebwoy is well-versed in afro-dancehall, reggae, afrobeat and highlife.
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Def Jam launched operations in Africa two years ago in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Lagos, Nigeria, with a flagship roster of leading African artists including Cassper Nyovest, Nadia Nakai, Nasty C, Tshego, Tellaman, Ricky Tyler, Larry Gaaga and Vector.
“Stonebwoy is a true African talent,” Universal Music CEO for sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa Sipho Dlamini said about the singer’s decision to pitch camp at Def Jam. “He works with the heart and spirit of lifting those around him while producing fresh sounds that keep blowing the world away. We look forward to what 2022 has in store for him.”
About Def Jam’s position in the African music value chain, particularly at a time when more artists are taking the independent route, Stonebwoy says the outfit “brings its machinery and expertise to guide and continuously navigate the various brands on the Africans continent in achieving global breakthroughs.”
Stonebwoy noted that, what he is already known for played an enormous role for DefJam to consider him worthy as a signee. As such, there is no reason for him to change his style.
He made these comments at a presser at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on Thursday, May 5, 2022. The press conference was Stonebwoy's outdooring by DefJam.
He further asked the audience present that: “If you ‘switch’ the switch then where is Stonebwoy again?
“And it is this same Stonebwoy that these brands have decided to work with for Ghana and West Africa.”
Although he remains resolute in sticking to his roots, the “Go Higher” hitmaker pointed out that his fans and the world will witness a “different” Stonebwoy because of this new deal.
This according to him, will exhibit and strengthen his “versatility” as an artiste, which will make him more appealing around the world.
“There is no change. It is just an improvement… because we want to get to a larger audience, we have to also be able to attract them to what they also know, so they can experience what this is.”
DefJam Recordings Africa announced the deal with Stonebwoy on it's Instagram page on 28th April, 2022.
Stonebwoy has not released an album in two years. His last collection, Anloga Junction, was arguably the biggest Ghanaian album of 2020. The album explores the unique perspective of its creator: a country boy with the benefit of world travel.
Album 5, the title of his forthcoming LP, will further this creative vision: to “stabilise the Stonebwoy style to global audiences by tapping into sounds that travel beyond the typical Ghanaian or African mindset yet appeal to all.”
Stonebwoy is expected to produce three studio albums for DefJam Recordings Africa — a division owned by Universal Music Group.
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