Nigeria: Oxlade inks Epic Records deal

The news, which was announced by the label on various social media platforms, follows the August 2021 release of Oxlades’s sophomore EP Eclipse through Troniq Music and Epic Records France.

Confirming the development, the artist tweeted a video with the caption, “New beginnings. New Blessings.” He joins fellow Epic Records signees Sho Madjozi and Tyla, who are both South African. Epic Records is also home to global stars including Travis Scott, Camila Cabello, 21 Savage, Future and Mariah Carey.

Oxlade, born Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, boasts a unique sound that blends multiple genres including Afro-fusion, R&B and pop. He cites Enya, Lauryn Hill, Mali Music and Jon Bellion among his musical influences. Thematically, his work revolves around the subject of love.

The singer is behind well-received singles including ‘Ojuju’ and ‘Away’, which Rolling Stone named among the 50 best songs of 2020. Over his career, he has collaborated with top African acts including Sarkodie, Fireboy DML, Ice Prince, Davido and CKay, among others.

Speaking to OkayAfrica last year, Oxlade revealed his dream to be “the biggest Afrobeats act worldwide.” He added: “It’s definitely not easy, every month a new star comes up. There is so much talent and star power here right now, not forgetting the heavyweights are still there. So you cannot even sleep, but I still want to be – and I will be – the biggest Afrobeats act from here.”