
Idris Elba and Jody Gerson (Photo Credit: Taylor Hornecker)
Movie and TV star Idris Elba has extended his exclusive global publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG).
Elba in music:
Elba’s single “Boasty” topped the UK Indie Chart and hit No. 5 on the R&B Chart.
He has collaborated with Vybz Kartel, Skepta, Toddla T, and more.
He wrote original music for the prominent video game, Cyberpunk 2077.
Elba also runs his own labels, 7Wallace and Sound International.
He’s performed all over the world, including at Coachella, Glastonbury, and SXSW London.
His newest release is “More Mentors,” a collaboration with fellow actor and musician Connor Price.
What they said:
Elba: “Excited to be working with David Gray, Pete Simmons, Lincoln Elias, and the team at UMPG. Writing brings me real joy — and having great people around only elevates the process.”
UMPG UK Head of A&R Pete Simmons: “People might think Idris is an actor who sometimes makes music, but in reality, he’s a songwriter who sometimes acts.”
David Gray, Managing Director of UMPG UK and Head of Global A&R: “Idris is the rare writer and musician that moves easily between genres and can create great songs in every possible way.”
Idris Elba
Pete Simmons
David Gray
Connor Price
7Wallace
Sound International
Coachella
Glastonbury
SXSW London
Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG)
Music Business Deals
Artist-Publisher Loyalty
Global Publishing Expansion
Expanding Artist IP Beyond Music
Artist Management Signings
Music Publishing
Artist Signings
Record Labels
United Kingdom
United States
London, GB
👋 Disclosures & Transparency Block
- This article was written with information sourced from Music Business Worldwide.
- We covered it because UMPG is a subsidiary of UMG, one of the three major labels.













