Double Deal for SA’s Tellaman
Thelumusa Samuel Owen, better known as Tellaman, is ready to grace the international space with two international deals. Tellaman is currently signed with Universal (South Africa), but managed to secure two more deals from the US and the UK.
The first deal is from the US based Motown Records, which is a subsidiary of the Universal Music Group. It is known for its rich history in its unique take on soul with acts like The Supremes (including Diana Ross), Jackson Five (including Michael Jackson), Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and The Temptations. Recently the label has been mixing its soulful sound with some trap such as Migos with their Culture II album.
The second deal coming from Virgin Records, which is a UK based label founded by famous billionaire Richard Branson and is also a subsidiary of the Universal Music Group. It is known for its dominance in the pop culture/sound with acts such as Aaliyah, Janet Jackson, the multifaceted Lenny Kravitz, Simple Mindz and Spice Girls.
This will give him a chance of stamping his authority on an international level, particularly in the US and the UK. In South Africa, Tellaman is known for his ultra smooth voice and sound, which can transcend into both hip hop as well as RnB.
“They will help us in distributing and marketing his single and album in their markets, as a partner of Universal. We are really excited about the deal,” says Universal’s Kevin Grenfell.
The Durban born singer grew up in a church environment, singing in the church choir. He was a signee of Soul Candi and got featured in the Soul Candi Sessions 15 in tape which won him national accolades. He went on to release Nsikelelo, with the most recognizable track being Drinks and Music featuring Okmaloomkoolkat, which truly had an international standard and was way ahead of it’s time.
However, he made serious head waves in 2016 with a feature on DJ Speedsta’s chart topping Mayo, with arguably the most unforgettable and soothing chorus in hip hop that year. He propelled to new heights with a banger called Whipped, featuring Shekinah and Nasty C, which had everybody in and out of their feels.
“I can’t believe it. Thank you guys so much for your support. I really appreciate it. Shout out to Shekinah and Nasty C and everyone who has been following my projects,” he speaks humbly.
This is a big deal for the humble singer, which will propel him to new heights. As South Africans, we wish nothing but the best for him as he deserves everything and more.
Check out his new single Practice on https://music.apple.com/za/album/practice-single/1488044595
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Written by Tevin NKS
Edited by Tevin NKS