In her new role, Ikazoboh will oversee the operations of the Lagos-based office which has already inked groundbreaking deals…
By Helena Olori
Universal Music Group‘s Label and Artist services, Virgin Music Group, has announced the appointment of Nigerian music executive, Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh, as Head of its newly established office in Nigeria, as part of its expansion initiative.
In her new role, Ikazoboh will oversee the operations of the Lagos-based office which has already inked groundbreaking deals, including a partnership with Dvpper Music Label, singer Reekado Banks, and a single with British-Nigerian singer, Darkoo, featuring Mavin Records’ Ayra Starr.
Michael Roe, Managing Director, Virgin Music International, described Ikabozah’s appointment as a perfect pick, stating, “Kay is known throughout Nigeria as a champion of independent labels and artiste development. Her relationships, expertise, and insight into the local market make her the perfect executive to lead our operations in this very important music market.”
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On her part, Ikabozah reiterated the importance of the Nigerian music industry on the global stage, noting that, “Nigeria has become a hugely important creative hub, producing some of the most exciting music anywhere in the world. I’m looking forward to working with independent labels and artistes to help them build their fan bases both here and around the world. I am truly honoured to lead this mission with my team and look forward to the incredible journey ahead.”
Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh, who also owns Kimani Moore Entertainment, brings on board her wealth of experience as a talent manager, having worked with artistes such as Odunsi the Engine, rap star DetoBlack, and Mowalola. She has also served in various positions in emerging markets for Warner Music Group.
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Virgin Music Label and Artist Services, is an independent division of Universal Music Group (UMG) launched in 2021 to spearhead the expansion of UMG’s independent music capabilities across all of its business units and regions worldwide. The group first established its presence in Africa in 2021 when it acquired South Africa’s leading independent music distributor, Electromode.
In 2022, their new division launched in Côte d’Ivoire with over 15,000 titles, 50 label partners, and more than 100 artistes from over 25 African countries. Virgin Music has influenced emerging music genres worldwide including Afrobeats, música Mexicana, K-pop and others.