Kobalt has signed a new deal with Nigerian publishing company Inner Circle Publishing, marking a significant move in expanding Kobalt’s footprint within the African music market.
“This partnership positions Kobalt to continue investing in Africa’s most forward-thinking music creators and aligns with its global strategy to empower independent voices and entrepreneurs within key emerging markets,” said a statement.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Inner Circle Publishing, a powerhouse driving the next wave of African music and talent,” said Kenny McGoff, head of creative UK & GSA, Kobalt Music. “Nigeria continues to be a wellspring of creativity and cultural influence, and this deal reflects our commitment to supporting diverse voices on a global stage. We’re excited to work closely with the Inner Circle team to help amplify their writers and bring their music to the world.”
Inner Circle Publishing, co-founded by Caleb Oyolola & Promise Dennis earlier this year, has already signed producer Choke Boi and artist Serotonin.
Fido’s Joy Is Coming, produced by Choke Boi, this year reached 50 million streams in Nigeria more quickly than any other track and hit No.1 on DSPs for multiple weeks.
Venus, the second single from rising artist Serotonin, in collaboration with Faceless, has surpassed 100 million global streams.
In addition, Inner Circle Publishing has inked a long-term deal with rising star Dxtiny, who has scored hits in 2025 with Uncle Pele and Babcock.
We’re excited to work closely with the Inner Circle team to help amplify their writers and bring their music to the world
Kenny McGoff
“We are extremely happy this partnership with Kobalt came together as we know they share our ambition for Inner Circle publishing,” said Inner Circle Publishing co-founder Caleb Oyolola. “We’re grateful to those who made it possible, especially our lawyer Wale Kalejaiye and Tyler Brown, whose strategic guidance and dedication were instrumental in bringing this together.”
In addition to publishing, Inner Circle formerly managed Fido, whose hit single Awolowo (released via Heatwave Records) introduced him as a new voice in Afrobeats. The group’s label arm, Inner Circle Records, also found chart success through its partnership with The Orchard, breaking artist Mavo with the hit Escaladizzy, later remixed by Shallipopi, Ayra Starr and Zlatan.
“I have no doubt that Inner Circle Publishing will become one of the most successful and important publishers in Nigeria in the coming years,” said Tyler Brown, founder of Funfair Records & Publishing, who was instrumental in the Kobalt-Inner Circle deal and will remain involved in the creative and business development capacity. “Caleb is one of the most impressive young entrepreneurs I’ve ever met, and I’m delighted to play a small part in the growth of this exciting business. Artist development is probably the most in-demand skill set in the world right now, and Inner Circle seems to deliver it time and time again.”
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