SA‘s Mikhalé Jones inks deal with Afroforce1 Records

The deal coincides with the release of her new single ‘My Soul’, off her upcoming album It Is What It Is. As part of the deal, Afroforce1 Records will market the single not only in South Africa but the rest of Africa and Europe.

Commenting on the song, which speaks about her personal journey as an artist, the 25-year-old Jones said: “Just settling into my 20s and having completed university, I was ready to discover my purpose and who I was as an individual. It was scary as f%@k. I was scared of the unknown, because all I knew is that I no longer knew who I was. I became numb as a coping mechanism because the world just didn’t feel like a safe space to be in. I felt like I was losing my soul.”

Universal Music Group sub-Saharan Africa managing director Sipho Dlamini said: “Mikhalé Jones is the new look and sound of R&B, soul and trap. Fresh, edgy, full of life and not scared to be herself. Her songwriting, vocals and passion for music will be the reason the world discovers her name. The second artist to join the Universal Music Group/AfroForce1 family after Mi Casa, we are proud to have her as part of the family.”

Jones is a former member of Christian hip hop collective Unique. She rose to fame with her series of a capella videos, which were released on Facebook. In May 2014, she made her television debut on SABC 1's YoTV, performing as a backup dancer for local singer Mariechan. That same year, she participated at the International Model and Talent Association talent search and was the first finalist. She has worked with hip hop artists like Tribal Kingz and Bradz La Muzik. 

“With her phenomenal voice, natural beauty, flawless work ethic and commitment to being real, Mikhalé is destined to make it as one of South Africa’s brightest new stars. We are proud and happy to be part of her musical journey to success,” Airforce1 Records managing director and senior vice-president for A&R Joe Chialo said.