Nigeria: Rozzz joins Sony Music Publishing West Africa

The company confirmed the news via Instagram, adding that Rozzz will “bring incredible creativity and energy to the SMP family. Stay tuned for incredible new music and join us in celebrating this amazing talent.”

Rozzz, who blends Western influences with traditional Afrobeats sounds, is an alumnus of the Music Business Academy (MBA) for Africa and appears on multiple tracks from the programme’s Pepple Street compilation album.

At SMPWA, he joins a list of other Nigerian musicians, including JORDANSTYLS, Vector and Skales.

Recently, SMPWA also announced that it had entered into agreements to represent fuji greats K1 De Ultimate, Saheed Osupa, Adewale ‘Mr Johnson’ Ayuba and the late Ayinde Barrister, as well as the late indigenous rapper Dagrin.

SMPWA also now boasts a deal with Ghanaian label Lynx Entertainment, home to stars like KiDi, Adina and DJ Vyrusky, as well as new voices Kasar, Maya Blu and DSL.

Sony Music Publishing, home to notable African artists including Wizkid, Tems and Sarkodie, made its foray into West Africa in 2022 when it opened its Lagos office, with industry vet Godwin Tom as managing director.

“Africa has so much talent, culture and uniqueness to share with the rest of the world, and I am excited to be a part of the incredible global network of teams that will help build a home for Africa’s best songwriters,” Tom said upon his appointment.

Weeks ago, SMPWA launched The Legends Project 2024, a writing camp aiming to revive the value of old works and shine light on legendary African catalogues. The programme brought together diverse artists, producers and songwriters to explore the “rich heritage of fuji music and push its boundaries.”