Universal Music Group’s East Africa division has signed Nairobi-based singer and songwriter Juanita Tunu, a rising artist whose sound blends contemporary Afro-pop with subtle rock influences and bilingual vocals in English and Swahili.
The signing marks a new phase in Tunu’s career as she joins Universal Music Group East Africa, which will support the development and global distribution of her music.
Tunu first began gaining attention through Sol Generation Records’ YouTube Artist Development Program, where she developed her sound and began building an audience.
The program helped shape her artistic identity and provided early exposure as she worked to establish herself in Kenya’s growing pop music scene.
According to Chinasa, Managing Director of Universal Music Group East Africa, the label sees strong potential in the young artist.“Juanita is an exciting new voice with real star potential, distinctive, compelling, and culturally grounded,” Chinasa said.
“She represents the next generation of Kenyan artists shaping the future of African pop, and we’re proud to welcome her to UMG East Africa as we work together to take her music to the world.”
Tunu said the signing represents an important milestone after years of developing her craft.
“I’m grateful for every step that brought me here, from building through Sol Generation’s program to now signing with UMG East Africa,” she said.
“This partnership is the platform I’ve been working toward, and I’m ready to show the world what I’m about.”
Known for songwriting rooted in personal emotion and themes of love, growth, and self-expression, Tunu is currently working on new music as she prepares for a major year of releases and performances.
Universal Music Group East Africa said the partnership will help expand the singer’s reach to audiences across Africa and globally as part of the label’s continued investment in emerging talent from the region.