Cape Town's Own Mr Thela signs with Global Giant Universal Music Group

Cape Town's dynamic DJ and music producer, Mr Thela, officially seals a deal with one of the music industry's leading labels—Universal Music Group. This partnership heralds a new era for the DJ, who is synonymous with the pulsating beats of Cape Town Gqom, a hypnotic dance music genre indigenous to the city.

The rise of Mr Thela is akin to a riveting symphony. Since his explosive debut during the unprecedented 2020 lockdown, he has been a relentless force in the music industry. His groundbreaking joint album "Make Cape Town Great Again" swiftly climbed to platinum status and earned him a nod for Best Gqom Album at the prestigious 2021 South African Music Awards. His hit single "iParty" not only became a local anthem but also resonated on international platforms after Netflix featured it in the original movie "JIVA."

Success didn't come easily for Mr Thela; it was his incredible work ethic and vision that carved his path to prominence. "I've had to navigate the industry with no knowledge but a pocket full of dreams," he acknowledged. But it is precisely this determination paired with his skill that has seen his music transcend borders, reaching audiences as distant as South Korea and the UK.

His recent solo endeavor, "Tronics Land Series 2," wasn't just a commercial triumph, securing top rankings on streaming platforms Apple Music and Spotify, but also a testament to his growing brand. With over 4 million streams in under a month, Mr Thela's influence on the dance music scene is unassailable.

This fresh venture with Universal Music Group is set to amplify Mr Thela's reach beyond what he could imagine. With the backing of a global powerhouse, opportunities are bound to unfold, allowing his electrifying blend of beats to cascade into new markets and resonate with a larger audience.

Manusha Sarawan, Universal Music Group's Managing Director, couldn't contain her enthusiasm, stating, "The Gqom genre continues to have staying power and remains a vital part of our dance music culture." UMG's endorsement reflects a recognition and appreciation for the genre Mr Thela has helped shape and push forward.

Equipped with wisdom and clarity about the industry, Mr Thela enters this agreement well-prepared to navigate what lies ahead. His partnership with Universal Music Group isn't just a win for his personal brand—it is a momentous occasion for South African music, setting the stage for Gqom's rhythmic roar to echo even further around the globe.