Def Jam India has arrived. On February 22, Universal Music Group (UMG), announced the launch of Def Jam India, its latest move to “further solidify and amplify Indian hip-hop and culture on a global scale.”
The official announcement also named its first two flagship artists: Dino James and Fotty Seven. The former rose to fame with his 2016 debut single, “Loser.” Hailing from Sarni in Madhya Pradesh, India, Dino James was described as a “self-made” rapper who credits Eminem and composer A.R. Rahman as influences.
Fotty Seven is the solo project by Ankit Gudwani, who’s also part of Kaleshi launde, a Delhi-based rap trio whose members also include Badshah and Bali. In 2020, Fotty Seven released his debut EP, Asli Independent, and had a string of hit singles, including “Bhot Tej,” which featured his fellow Kaleshi launde member, Badshah.
Dino James’ “Lost” is underway. Meanwhile, Fotty Seven’s “Banjo,” his debut single via Def Jam India, is out now.
Def Jam India follows the expansion of the storied hip hop label, starting with the establishment of Def Jam South East Asia in 2019, with Joe Flizzow from Malaysia, Daboyway from Thailand, Yung Raja, Fariz Jabba and Alif/Alyph from Singapore, and A. Nayaka from Indonesia as its first six inaugural artists.
