Belgian publisher partners with Ugandan labels

Founded by Burundi-born Derek Debru and Greek-Armenian ethnomusicologist Arlen Dilsizian, the labels have recorded artists whose music is inspired by local traditions through new spins on contemporary pop and futuristic sound experiments.

Artists working with the labels include MC Yalla, Nihiloxica, Bamba Pana, Makaveli, Slickback and Otim Alpha, among others.

"We have always believed in building partnerships that add value to the work we do," Debru said. "The team at Strictly Confidential are passionate and have shown genuine interest and understanding of the music we release through Nyege Nyege Tapes and Hakuna Kulala."

"This new agreement will allow us to maximise the commercial opportunities available to our songwriters while expanding the global reach of the music we represent."

Strictly Confidential managing director Pierre Mossiat said: "The signing of an agreement with Derek and Arlen to create a music publishing arm for their hugely successful labels is a game changer for Strictly Confidential and allows us to work with the amazing African artists, songwriters and composers they discover and nurture."

This new partnership shows that Strictly Confidential, like many other publishers, is looking beyond the European market to invest in African repertoires. The company has affiliates and operations in Belgium, France and the UK and its catalogue includes artists from genres like pop, rock, R&B, dance and world.