In his new position of Vice President, A&R,
Larry Gaaga will lead
Def Jam Africa’s A&R division in English-speaking markets.
Reporting to
Sipho Dlamini, CEO,
Universal Music South Africa & Sub-Saharan Africa, he and his team will work to sign African talent that speaks to Def Jam’s legacy.
Launched in May 2020, Def Jam Africa now boasts a roster including
Boity,
Cassper Nyovest,
Nadia Nakai and
Tshego.
“Larry is a talented creative, astute A&R and strategic executive. Expanding his relationship with Def Jam is an exciting next step in Africa’s hip-hop story and a big move for the culture,” Dlamini said.
Formerly GM of
YSG Entertainment and an artist manager, Gaaga has worked with the likes of
Wiz Kid,
Burna Boy and
Davido and was one of Def Jam Africa’s first artist signings.
Having a name that’s mighty close to that of another superstar's has led to mix-ups, like the time the dry cleaner mistakenly sent a meat dress to Gaaga's home.
