Exciting developments in music! News reaching InyaRwanda confirms that Ariel Wayz is among the first artists to create high-quality tracks under her newly signed partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG). This historic agreement was finalized on August 12, 2025.
During a week-long stay in Kenya, Ariel Wayz's manager, Eloi, shared with InyaRwanda that UMG is leveraging its network to connect the singer with industry-leading producers from Kenya and East Africa. These professionals are renowned for their expertise in creating trending and world-class music productions.
Eloi stated, “These are the first songs they’re producing for us following our partnership with Universal Music. The agreement includes collaboration with top producers in Kenya and the East African region, positioning us for greater success.”
The collaboration doesn’t stop there. Ariel Wayz is also preparing music videos for tracks from her debut album, "Hear to Stay,” as most of the hits have so far been released only in audio format.
Ariel Wayz and her manager last visited Kenya in 2023 for preliminary discussions with Universal Music. Their efforts paid off in 2025 with the signing of this groundbreaking partnership.
In an official statement, Universal Music Group expressed its enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to announce our agreement with the talented artist Ariel Wayz, bringing her into the Universal Music Group family. She has been warmly welcomed, and we can’t wait to share her work with the world!”
This deal marks the first time the 25-year-old artist joins a prominent international music label, a monumental step for her career.
Ariel Wayz started her music journey in 2020, supported by close friends and family. Her big break came in 2021 with the release of "Away,” a hit collaboration with Juno Kizigenza. The song earned her recognition as one of Rwanda's most promising female artists.
Her album, "Hear to Stay,” continues to dominate charts in Rwanda, further cementing her status in the music scene. She was also one of the featured performers at the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival 2025.
Universal Music Group, headquartered in Santa Monica, California, stands as one of the world's three largest music companies, along with Sony Music and Warner Music. The label’s star-studded roster includes global icons like Taylor Swift, Drake, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, Post Malone, Ariana Grande, BTS, and more.
In recent years, UMG has been heavily investing in the African music scene. The company operates numerous branches in Africa, including UMG Nigeria, UMG South Africa, and its latest addition, UMG East Africa. This is the branch now collaborating with Ariel Wayz on her ambitious projects.
Ariel Wayz’s partnership with Universal Music heralds a new phase for Rwandan music, especially for female artists striving for international recognition. It’s a pivotal opportunity to spotlight Rwandan talent on the global stage and access competitive markets.
Consistently proving her potential, Ariel Wayz is ready to conquer the international music scene. Fans eagerly await her expertly crafted songs created under Universal Music’s direction. 
Ariel Wayz has arrived in Kenya to work on new songs with the guidance of Universal Music, beginning an exciting new chapter in her musical journey.
While in Kenya, Ariel Wayz is combining her unique talent with the expertise of top East African producers, a collaboration facilitated by Universal Music’s extensive resources.