Skepta is launching his own record label which aims to “nurture and invest in the next generation of young creative talent and executives across multiple fields”.
The grime MC’s Big Smoke Corporation will be creating Big Smoke Records over the coming months.
The Big Smoke Corporation was unveiled in collaboration with partners Puma and Channel 4 earlier this year, with Skepta (whose real name is Joseph Adenuga) is also to working with Puma “to share his deep knowledge of culture, music, art and style to the sporting franchise” as part of the new endeavour.
“During my career I’ve seen many brands and corporations capitalise on the cultural currency of the music and creative industries without adequately supporting artists or the those working within these industries,” Skepta said.
Skepta performs during the 2022 Governors Ball Music Festival at Citi Field on June 10, 2022 in New York City. CREDIT: Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Governors Ball).
“This is a unique opportunity for brands and corporations to collaboratively tap into the influence of the industry and culture whilst ensuring they are authentically and adequately supporting creatives and artists.”
In March, Skepta announced a brief foray into the world of art, co-curating an auction as part of Sotheby’s’ Contemporary Curated series, in which he also sold his debut painting, titled Mama Goes to Market. The painting sold for £81,900 ($93,840).
The Mercury prize-winner hasn’t had much by way of music released recently, with just a handful of singles and his All In EP released last year. And now we wait and wonder what will come first: music from him or his soon-to-be launched label.
