Universal Music India, a division of Universal Music Group, the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records – the recently launched independent record label by singer-composer Anirudh Ravichander. Under this partnership, Universal Music India and Albuquerque Records will release Anirudh Ravichander’s pop and hip hop music in the future and future artists will be signed to this label. The first release under the label is planned to be released in April, featuring Anirudh.
Universal Music India partners with Anirudh Ravichander’s Albuquerque Records for global music releases
The global partnership will see Universal Music India team up with Albuquerque Records to expand the impact of Anirudh’s artistry. Over time, the label would become home to the region’s emerging pop and hip-hop artists.
Anirudh’s track record over the last 15 years has been remarkable and unparalleled. Started as a musician in 2012 with his global viral hit ‘.why did he betray me‘, he has amassed over 13 billion audio streams across his over 770 tracks, making him the No. 1 South Indian artist on Spotify in terms of total streams. Additionally, he is one of the most distinguished composers in the Tamil Original Soundtrack (OST) field, with numerous global chart-topping successes. Hukum, Vaathi Coming, Arabi Kuthu, Monica, A23 Theme, Aaja Raja, Aaya Sher and more.
Universal Music India has maintained a consistent focus on the South Indian region, working closely with the rich artistry and culture that spans across the four major South language markets (Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu). The agreement with Anirudh, one of the region’s most accomplished artists, will help further the region’s unprecedented musical presence on the global stage. Additionally, it further expands Universal Music India’s presence in pop and hip-hop, genres associated with some of the most influential names in the South Indian market.
Commenting on the partnership, Devraj Sanyal, President and CEO, Universal Music India, SVP Strategy, AMEA, said: ‘Anirudh represents the future of Indian music – bold, original and with huge potential. At Universal Music India, identifying transformative talent is our superpower and this partnership reflects that belief. We are proud to stand with Anirudh as he begins his next chapter and helps take Indian music around the world.
Anirudh Ravichander commented: “Albuquerque Records was created as an artist-backed, homegrown label focused on nurturing independent talent and taking their sounds to the global stage. Universal Music India’s leadership in pop and hip-hop made them a natural partner. I’m excited to support the next wave of Indian independent voices and take them to audiences around the world.”
Sanujit Bhujbal, MD, Universal Music India, said: “Anirudh has long been a defining force in shaping the creative landscape beyond music. With his stellar track record of innumerable hit songs for films, he has an unprecedented fan base that is deeply engaged with his creative output. Albuquerque Records represents Anirudh’s bold artistic vision in the world of pop and hip-hop. In line with his legacy of innovation, this partnership marks the beginning of another landmark creative The space is ready – this time for the emerging world of iPop and beyond.”
