Universal Music Group East Africa (UMG EA) has announced the signing of prolific Rwandese rapper, songwriter and producer Ish Kevin.
This deal brings forth new opportunities for Rwanda’s Hip Hop maverick Ish Kevin to create commercially successful music.
Sharing his excitement on the new deal he penned with Universal Music Group EA, Ish noted that this was a monumental move for the culture and his homeland, Rwanda.
“Signing to UMG is a big step not just for me, but for the culture. It means our sound, our stories, and our energy are now on a global stage. It’s proof that African voices, especially from Rwanda, belong in the world conversation,” he said.
Speaking on the latest signee, UMG EA General Manager Chinasa Udeala praised Ish’s authenticity.
“His authenticity resonates deeply with the youth, making him a major voice in the country’s urban music scene. This is a major milestone for East African hip-hop and music from Rwanda in general. Partnering with UMG East Africa, Ish is ready to share his undeniable talent with the world.”
Ish’s transcendental rise in the music industry began in 2021 with breakout singles such as “Amakosi” and “No Cap”.
“No Cap” was later featured in “7 Hard Drill Tracks from around the World” by major UK Urban music platform, GRM Daily.
Ish has solidified his basking reputation as a multilingual emcee, fluent in English, Swahili, French and his native Kinyarwanda.
“I’ve always believed in pushing boundaries. The inspiration to sign with UMG came from wanting to take what we’ve been building locally and share it with the world, while still staying true to where I come from,” he says.
Adding, “Expect bigger collaborations, more powerful storytelling, and music that connects beyond borders. It’s about growth, but also about putting Rwanda and East Africa on the map in a new way”.
Following the success of his debut LP ‘Blood, Sweat and Tears’, Ish is ready to charge into the spotlight with exciting new projects already lined up following this incredible milestone.
