After performing a sold-out show at Madison Square Garden this week (April 17), Davido has announced that he has signed a deal with Steve Stoute’s UnitedMasters.
The deal with the music distributor and licensing platform that caters to independent artists also comes on the heels of Davido’s intended launch of a US-based record label, Nine+, which aims to introduce the world to up-and-coming talent from around the globe.
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“I couldn’t be more proud to partner with Steve and the team at United Masters,” Davido said in a press release, according to Complex. “This announcement represents an exciting new chapter for developing and established artists around the world.”
The deal will see the Grammy nominee lead Nine+ Records’ A&R division and behind-the-scenes curation. Davido will also work closely with the UnitedMasters team to nurture rising artists across various genres, from hip-hop and R&B to country and Afrobeats.
“Over the last two years, we’ve proven our commitment to Africa by investing in artists, education, and technology,” Stoute said. “Today, we are doubling down.”
Stoute launched United Masters in Nigeria on December 13, 2023, to enable independent artists who subscribe to a paid distribution plan to own 100 percent of their music royalties. He also partnered with Sarz, a Nigerian music producer, on his 1789 imprint label to empower African artists and allow them to expand their music globally.
“With this new venture with Davido & the launch of Nine Plus Records, we reinforce our mission of becoming a bridge for artists on the continent. Together, we’ll identify & develop new artists while supporting them with brand and synch opportunities,” Stoute added.
