Universal Music India has entered into an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records – an independent record label recently launched by Anirudh Ravichander.
The partnership will see Universal Music India and Albuquerque Records release future pop and hip-hop music by Anirudh Ravichander, along with music from artists signed to the label.
According to a press release, the global collaboration will see Universal Music India work closely with Albuquerque Records “to expand the influence of Anirudh’s artistry” with the ambition for the label to “become home to emerging pop and hip-hop artists from the region”.
Anirudh’s track record over the last 15 years has been described by UMG as “enviable and unparalleled”. Since debuting as a composer in 2012 with his global viral hit Why This Kolaveri Di, he has amassed over 13 billion audio streams across more than 770 tracks, making him the No.1 South Indian artist on Spotify in terms of total streams.
He is also regarded as one of the most sought-after composers in the Tamil Original Soundtrack (OST) space, with several global chart-topping tracks including Hukum, Vaathi Coming, Arabic Kuthu, Monica, A23 Theme, Aaja Raja, and Aya Sher.
Universal Music India noted its continued focus on the South Indian market, working across Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Telugu music ecosystems. The company believes the partnership with Anirudh will further strengthen the global reach of music from the region.
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.”
He further added, “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 said, “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, 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.”
The deal marks another strategic move by Universal Music India as it continues to expand its footprint in the Indian music industry.
