Universal Music India partners with Anirudh Ravichander’s Albuquerque Records for global music releases

Universal Music India, a division of Universal Music Group, the world leader in music-based entertainment, has announced an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records, the independent record label recently launched by singer-composer Anirudh Ravichander. Under this partnership, Universal Music India and Albuquerque Records will release future pop and hip hop music by Anirudh Ravichander and other artists signed to the label. The first release under the label is scheduled for early April, featuring Anirudh.

The global partnership will enable Universal Music India to work closely with Albuquerque Records to enhance the influence of Anirudh's artistry.

 Over time, the label is expected to become a hub for emerging pop and hip-hop artists from the region.

Anirudh's track record over the past 15 years has been exceptional and unmatched.

 Debuting as a composer in 2012 with his global viral hit 'Why This Kolaveri Di', he has accumulated over 13 billion audio streams across his more than 770 tracks, making him the No.1 South Indian artist on Spotify in terms of total streams. Additionally, he is one of the most sought-after composers in the Tamil Original Soundtrack (OST) space, with numerous global chart-topping successes including Hukum, Vaathi Coming, Arabic Kuthu, Monica, A23 Theme, Aaja Raja, Aya Sher, and more.

Universal Music India has consistently focused on the South Indian region, collaborating closely with the rich artistry and culture spanning the four key south language markets (Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Telugu).

 This arrangement with one of the region's most accomplished artists will help further showcase groundbreaking music from this region on the global stage. It also expands Universal Music India's presence in pop and hip-hop, genres associated with some of the most influential names in the South Indian market.

Commenting on the partnership, Devraj Sanyal, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music India; SVP Strategy, AMEA, said: 'Anirudh represents the future of Indian music—bold, original, and with enormous potential.

 At Universal Music India, identifying transformative talent is our superpower, and this partnership reflects that belief. We're proud to stand behind Anirudh as he embarks on his next chapter and helps take more Indian music to the world.'

Anirudh Ravichander commented: 'Albuquerque Records was built to be an artist-backed, homegrown label focused on nurturing independent talent and taking their sound to the global stage.

 Universal Music India's leadership in pop and hip-hop made them the natural partner. I'm excited to champion the next wave of Indian independent voices and take them to audiences around the world.'

Sanujeet Bhujabal, MD of Universal Music India, said: 'Anirudh has long been a defining force in shaping the creative landscape beyond music.

 Alongside his stellar track record of innumerable hit songs for films, he commands a phenomenal fanbase that engages deeply with his creative output. Albuquerque Records represents Anirudh's bold artistic vision in the world of pop and hip hop. True to his legacy of innovation, this partnership is set to establish yet another landmark creative space—this time for the emerging world of iPop and beyond.'