After taking over social media and emerging as an international phenomenon, South African singer and songwriter Lloyiso announces his signing with Universal Music Group South Africa and Republic Records. Simultaneously, he reveals the release of his debut single "Seasons" today. He notably makes history as the first South African artist to sign to Republic Records.
Listen to "Seasons" Below:
Over the past month, he has teased out "Seasons" on TikTok. Thus far, it has inspired 13K-plus creates on the preview alone and the live version of the song has received over 2 million views thus far on YouTube. Now, the official release highlights his powerhouse vocals front and center over strains of dramatic piano. The momentum builds towards a soulful and soaring refrain, “It’s been hard to accept that seasons change and feelings fade, so all I ask, don’t call me".
"It’s an honor to work with Monte Lipman and the team at Republic Records in launching the career of this amazingly talented soul, Lloyiso. Witnessing the signing of the first South African artist on the Republic roster will inspire others on the continent, and we’re proud to be leading that charge one artist at a time"; says Sipho Dlamini, CEO Universal Music Africa Sub Saharan Africa.
Welcoming Lloyiso to the label, Republic Records Executive Vice President of A&R Brett Alperowitz commented, "Lloyiso has all the makings of a career superstar knockout vocals, incredible songwriting, and an amazing story to tell. He’s the rare talent who not only transcends genres, but crosses borders as well".
Kgosi Mahumapelo, CEO of Ambitiouz Entertainment (South Africa’s leading independent record label who reached an agreement with UMGSA and Republic Records to enable Lloyiso to move teams), stated on Lloyiso’s new signing, “We believe the world is ready to be touched by Lloyiso. Partnering with Universal South Africa and Republic Records, who both have a proven track record of successfully breaking new talents on a global scale, will ensure that the world gets to hear and experience raw South African talent".
Hailing from just outside of Port Elizabeth, South Africa, singer, songwriter, and producer. Lloyiso wields the kind of voice that instantly tugs at heartstrings. It’s the kind of voice that shines in any arena whether in front of a laptop camera or under the lights of a festival stage. It’s the kind of voice that makes you stop what you’re doing and sing along. At 16-years-old, he appeared on South African Idol and placed fifth in the competition. Following “three weeks at university,” he left school and focused on music inspired by the likes of Sam Smith and Kanye West. He performed anywhere possible, singing in exchange for dinner at local pubs. He even recorded in English and ten different African languages. Taking over social media, Lloyiso amplified his voice globally by posting covers on Facebook before embracing YouTube. He gained the endorsement of everyone from Kygo to Tyga and gradually amassed an enthusiastic audience. Nailing viral renditions of Rihanna, Billie Eilish, Lewis Capaldi, and more, he launched his TikTok during 2020, generating tens of millions of views and attracting the attention of labels worldwide. Finding his home, he notably made history as the first South African artist signed to Republic Records. Now, he conveys feeling in its purest form through a series of 2021 singles ignited by his debut "Seasons".