Tanzanian label Panamusiq signs Kenyan artist Anto Neosoul

17 Feb 2016 - 05:47

Tanzanian artist management company Panamusiq has made its first move in growing its roster across borders - in line with its mission of being a pan-African artist management company - by signing Kenyan singer Anto Neosoul, who has entered a long-term management contract with the aim of building his brand globally.

Kenyan artist Anto Neosoul. Photo: naibuzz.com

Anto Neosoul (aka Antony Mwangi) is already a well-established singer in Kenya and much of East Africa. He has been nominated for numerous awards, including two Groove Awards in 2013, as well as Kisima Awards and a Mwafaka Award in 2012. Apart from his music talent, Anto gained his celebrity status also through various TV appearances, including on MTV's Shuga alongside Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o. More recently he participated in the Tecno Own the Stage contest, where he mentored some of the contestants.

Anto’s 16-track debut album Starborn was released in 2014 and was well-received by lovers of timeless soul music.

Panamusiq took to social media this week to announce the news of Anto's signing. On Instagram they posted: "We are so happy to welcome @antoneosoul into our family! Indeed he joined Panamusiq as our first African artist outside of Tanzania. Our pan-African spirit is getting shape!" Meanwhile on Twitter they simply confirmed: "We announce the signing of Kenyan master of Afro-pop and soul, Anto Neosoul".

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the release of Anto's latest single, 'Sijafika Mwisho', written by Sauti Sol’s Bienaime and produced by R Kay. Meanwhile, his 'Ghetto Reply' cover version of UK singer Adele's global hit 'Hello' has earned nearly 40 000 hits on Youtube since its release at the end of 2015 (although it didn't make it onto Music In Africa's selection of African covers of the song).

Anto is Panamusiq's latest addition to their talented stable. In November 2015 they signed Tanzanian producer C9, and in June 2015 they signed local singer Feza Kessy. The label also represents Linah and female duo Kioo.

Watch Anto's video for his 2014 single 'Addicted' from Starborn below.