Def Jam Recordings has launched Def Jam Recordings North Africa, a new label division focused on artists from the Maghreb region, marking the iconic hip-hop imprint’s second expansion into Africa.
The imprint, part of Universal Music Morocco & North Africa, will operate across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania. Its initial artist signings include Najm, SHR, and Aujiss, while Moroccan producers Oldygothesound, Bayadis, and Nouvo will also collaborate with the label.
The move extends Universal Music Group’s (UMG) footprint in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where recorded music revenues grew 15.2% in 2025, according to data from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI). Def Jam has recently expanded into Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and China.
Tunji Balogun, Chairman and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, said:
“Def Jam has always been built on powerful storytelling, artists bringing the energy and culture of their communities to the world. North Africa is home to an incredible wave of creativity and talent, and this launch creates a platform for those voices to be heard, celebrated, and amplified on a global stage. We’re excited to help share these stories with the world.”
Patrick Boulos, CEO of Universal Music Group MENA, added:
“This marks a new chapter for our business in the region. We have been at the forefront of the musical revolution in North Africa, with numerous local artists starting to see success both at home and, notably, across Europe, and with this launch of one of the most iconic labels in all of music, it can only help accelerate this phenomenon. Hip-hop has a new home in North Africa!”
