Latest news with #AshmedHourRecords


The Citizen
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Judy J joins Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records as first official signing
Judy J says she agreed to join Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records because she trusts the producer. Judy says she agreed to joining Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records because she trusts in the producer. Picture: Supplied DJ and music producer Judy J is the first artist on Oscar Mbo's record company, Ashmed Hour Records. 'Honestly, it's overwhelming because yes, I've been pushing and trying to get out there, but honestly, what's happening now I did not expect too soon,' Judy J told The Citizen at the launch of Ashmed Hour Records. Real name Judy Mahlatji, the 23-year-old's career has been on an upward trajectory in the last few years with DJing performances in Mzansi and abroad. She performed in the UK at the Balcony Mix Africa event in London. She made her debut at Spring Fiesta's main stage in 2023 and has played sets at popular events, including We House Sundays. Furthermore, she was also on the line-up for DJ Fresh and Euphonik's Oh Ship cruise. ALSO READ: Usimamane 'so blessed and grateful' after being embraced by industry and global sneaker brand Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records Judy says she agreed to join Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records because she trusts the producer. 'Oscar Mbo is someone that I've known for quite some time. Even the people that I've been working with, they also know him, and they felt like handing me over to him was the safe thing to do.' 'It's a very big platform for me, I feel like I have a lot of eyes… I have people that I mustn't disappoint because it's no longer about me alone,' shared Judy about being part of Ashmed Hour Records. Judy's first single under the new record label came out on Friday, titled Love Theory. The song draws inspiration from gospel as it samples Kirk Franklin's song of the same name. Ashmed Hour Records has a partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) South Africa, which will see UMG provide Ashmed Hour Records with access to global marketing, resources and a broader network, paving the way for the newly launched label to expand its influence beyond South Africa's borders. 'Ashmed Hour Records has always been about pushing the boundaries while staying true to our roots. Partnering with Universal Music gives us the platform to share our message and music with the world,' said Oscar Mbo. NOW READ: 'I want people to dance, to feel free': Mörda Bongz ahead of his Mandela Day performance with Soweto Gospel Choir

TimesLIVE
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Oscar Mbo's Ashmed Hour Records joins forces with Universal Music
Universal Music Group (UMG) South Africa has officially welcomed Ashmed Hour Records to its label family in a move set to shake up the local music industry. Founded by acclaimed DJ and producer Oscar Mbo, Ashmed Hour Records has built a reputation as a powerhouse in the deep house and Afro-infused music space. The label, known for its soulful and innovative sound, now enters a new era through its partnership with the global music giant. The collaboration signals UMG's continued commitment to nurturing and showcasing visionary South African talent on the international stage. It also represents a significant step forward for house music, as it continues to evolve and claim global recognition. The debut release under this new alliance is a track titled Love Theory, a soulful collaboration between Oscar and rising star Judy Jay. The single pays homage to gospel legend Kirk Franklin, sampling his iconic hit of the same name, while infusing it with smooth house rhythms and uplifting spiritual undertones. Mpumalanga born Oscar, widely regarded as a cultural tastemaker and force in the local and international music scenes, told TshisaLIVE he sees this partnership as a chance to elevate not only his label but the genre as a whole. 'Ashmed Hour Records has always been about pushing the boundaries while staying true to our roots, partnering with Universal Music gives us the platform to share our message and music with the world,' he said. UMG is set to provide the label with access to global marketing, resources and a broader network, paving the way for Ashmed Hour Records to expand its influence beyond South Africa's borders.