Heatwave Records inks deal with Kobalt

Launched in October by Tyler Brown (ex-Syco Music MD) and Harold Serero (former A&R at Ultra Music Publishing), Heatwave describes itself as “a borderless label focused on connecting the dots for music worldwide.” It focuses on signing and supporting artists from emerging regions such as West Africa, Latin America, and India.

The deal will see the two companies combine efforts to scout and develop the next generation of global talent, including artists, songwriters, and producers.

“Harold and I are excited to be working with Kenny and the Kobalt team on this new venture,” Brown said. “We’ve been impressed by their presence and success globally so it felt like the perfect home for Heatwave Publishing. We’ve got off to an incredibly fast start and we want to keep that momentum going. Our mission is to discover, develop and have the biggest hits in the world with the next generation of global superstar artists, songwriters and producers. The extension of the Funfair Publishing agreement with Kobalt was a natural progression following their amazing help and support to date.’

Kobalt head of creative for UK & GSA Kenny McGoff said: “It’s been an absolute joy working with Tyler and Funfair. His energy and taste are to be both admired and respected as is his knack for finding hidden gems. Now with Harold alongside him and the newly formed Heatwave I can only imagine what they going to do next. It’s really exciting to be part of and I am glad we at Kobalt are along for the ride.”

Heatwave unveiled its recording division in September after partnering with US-based music and tech company Too Lost. The first fruits of the new publishing joint venture include the signing of Dutch DJ and producer Dave Nunes, who has worked with notable Afrobeats names including Sarz, Asake, Ayra Starr and Fireboy DML among others.

Co-publishing agreements are also in place for ‘Active’ by Asake and US rapper Travis Scott and ‘HAUSAPIANO’ by Kvng Vinci and ZerryDL.

Meanwhile, Brown has also secured an extension of an existing agreement with Kobalt Music for his own company Funfair Publishing. This follows the success of the company’s first signing James Essien who boasts releases with ‘Water’ star Tyla, Mahalia and James Blunt and has upcoming releases with Joji and H.E.R.