Nigerian Afrobeats star, Adekunle Gold, has reached a milestone in his music career after officially signing with popular American record label, Def Jam Recordings. Even more, he is set to release a new album under the record label in June, 2023. 

This announcement came in a statement by the company’s Chief Executive Officer/Chairman, Tunji Balogun as reported by Billboard on Tuesday.

“I’ve been following Adekunle Gold since I first heard his record “Sade” in 2016. Over the years, everything in AG’s world has elevated — his songwriting has refined, the scope of his artistry has widened, his vocals have strengthened, his approach to fashion is more distinct, and his showmanship and performance ability have grown exponentially”, Tunji Balogun tells Billboard. He continued, stating that he had always been interested in bringing Def Jam label into the Afrobeats space as soon as he started working at the label in 2022. 

The Def Jam CEO also added, “I think AG is a truly global artist, and a rightful ambassador for Nigerian music and the emerging Afrobeats scene. He has the talent, virtuosity, focus, work ethic and temperament required to be a worldwide superstar. I’m excited to work with him and the Def Jam team to bring more fans into his world.”

Def Jam Recordings is owned by Universal Music Group and has accommodated a number of global megastars including Jay Z, Rihanna, and Kanye West. So far, AG Baby has expressed deep excitement upon signing with the label. He admits that the move is the right one for him at the current stage of his music career.

His new single featuring fellow Nigerian singer, Zinoleesky,  “Party No Dey Stop,” marks his Def Jam debut and will appear on his fifth studio album which will be released in June.