Idris Elba has extended his exclusive, global publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG).
Described by UMPG as an “adept songwriter, producer, musician, actor, director and DJ”, Elba broke into music with 2022 single Boasty (with Wiley, Stefflon Don and Sean Paul).
The track reached No.1 on the UK Indie Chart and No. 5 on the R&B Chart, and has recently surpassed 180 million streams.
He also released Vroom with The FaNaTiX, Lil TJay, Davido, Koffee and Moelego for Gran Turismo 7.
Elba has teamed with a number of artists, collaborating with Australian outfit Lime Cordiale for a sun-filled EP, Cordi Elba, as well as Defected, Dirtybird and Ultra.
UMPG noted that he is also the “powerhouse” behind his own labels, 7Wallace and Sound International, a house music label and live brand “dedicated to showcasing diverse sounds and stories from around the world”.
Since launching in November 2024, the label has hosted showcases at ADE, SXSW London, Glastonbury, Nairobi and Accra.
A “prolific” live performer, 2025 saw Idris play b2b with Kaskade at Coachella (having headline Yuma in previous years), four DJ sets across Glastonbury, and spend the summer taking over Ibiza with shows at Ibiza Rock, Hi, Ushuaïa and Pacha.
He’s scheduled to headline the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December, having performed at Silverstone earlier in the year.
“Writing brings me real joy — and having great people around only elevates the process.”
Idris Elba
Idris Elba said: “Excited to be working with David Gray, Pete Simmons, Lincoln Elias, and the team at UMPG. Writing brings me real joy — and having great people around only elevates the process.”
UMPG UK Head of A&R Pete Simmons, said: “People might think Idris is an actor who sometimes makes music, but in reality, he’s a songwriter who sometimes acts.
“People might think Idris is an actor who sometimes makes music, but in reality, he’s a songwriter who sometimes acts.”
Pete Simmons, UMPG
Added Simmons: “His curiosity and commitment to his craft are inspiring and there aren’t many writers I’ve met who can deliver club records, amapiano records and melancholy folk records all in one WhatsApp group.”
“Idris is the rare writer and musician that moves easily between genres and can great create songs in every possible way.”
David Gray, UMPG
David Gray, Managing Director of UMPG UK and Head of Global A&R, added: “Idris is the rare writer and musician that moves easily between genres and can great create songs in every possible way.
“We are honored to be working with him to continue to build his already impressive music career.”
“Partnering with David, Pete, Lincoln & the team at UMPG has proven to be a great fit.”
Naval Shadi, Manager
Naval Shadi, Manager, said: “Partnering with David, Pete, Lincoln & the team at UMPG has proven to be a great fit. Idris brings bold creative energy, and it takes the right people to truly support that musically.
“As Idris continues to bridge his work in film and music, especially in the U.S & emerging markets, having experienced and global-minded partners is more important than ever.”Music Business Worldwide
