Global music giant Universal Music Group (UMG) has acquired a majority stake in Mavin Global, a prominent Nigerian record label founded by music mogul, Don Jazzy. This move signifies UMG’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the rapidly growing Afrobeats market.
Mavin Global, established in 2012, is renowned for nurturing and launching the careers of top Afrobeats artists like Rema, whose hit song “Calm Down” reached the US Billboard Hot 100, and Ayra Starr, known for her viral single “Bloody Samaritan.”
UMG chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge expressed his excitement about the partnership, calling Mavin Global “a driving force behind many of the continent’s Afrobeats artists.” He emphasized UMG’s commitment to supporting Mavin’s continued growth and amplifying the voices of its talented roster across the globe.
This acquisition follows a recent trend of major labels seeking footholds in the booming Afrobeats scene. Analysts predict the deal will benefit both parties, with UMG leveraging its global reach to support Mavin’s artists, while Mavin gains access to UMG’s resources and expertise to further solidify its position as a leading force in Afrobeats music.