Universal Music Publishing Group has extended its global publishing agreement with Idris Elba.
The songwriter, producer, musician, actor, director and DJ broke into the global music scene with 2019 single Boasty (with Wiley, Stefflon Don and Sean Paul), which reached No.1 on the UK independent singles chart and recently surpassed 180 million streams.
Elba has also released Vroom with The FaNaTiX, Lil TJay, Davido, Koffee and Moelego for Gran Turismo 7.
He has teamed with a number of artists, collaborating with Australian outfit Lime Cordiale, as well as Defected, Dirtybird and Ultra.
Elba also has his own label and live brand – 7Wallace and Sound International. Since launching in November 2024, the label has hosted showcases at ADE, SXSW London, Glastonbury, Nairobi and Accra.
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. 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.”
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 create great songs in every possible way. We are honoured to be working with him to continue to build his already impressive music career.”
During 2025, Elba has played with Kaskade at Coachella, as well as four DJ sets across Glastonbury and performances in Ibiza. He’s scheduled to headline the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December, having performed at Silverstone earlier in the year.
Naval Shadi, manager, said: “Partnering with David, Pete, Lincoln and 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 US and emerging markets, having experienced and global-minded partners is more important than ever.”
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