In an electrifying display of passion, stamina, and unyielding creativity, A&R Duty in collaboration with HitSound have shattered records and expectations alike. They have turned the impossible into a soul-stirring melody, creating a new Guinness World Record for the longest recording marathon with multiple artists for an incredible 75 hours.
This triumph is not only a testament to relentless dedication but also solidifies A&R Duty’s place as the first independent A&R company globally to A&R an astounding 50 songs within the span of our 75-hour marathon. HitSound has also seized the spotlight, becoming the world’s first music producer to produce and record over 50 songs within the pulsating beats of time weaving through these 75 hours. Remember these names, remember this day — history has been scripted.
But the ripples of this incredible venture flow beyond our studio spaces. They echo through the heart of Afrobeat and shape a dynamic force in the global music market space. A&R Duty now proudly stands as the first independent A&R company in Africa to enlist professional prowess in pursuit of groundbreaking sonic adventures.
From Lagos to Los Angeles, from Accra to Amsterdam, a new wave of Afrobeat is on the rise. Each chord struck, each lyric spun into gold during this marathon has contributed to a rich tapestry of music that will shape not only the Afrobeat genre but also the texture of global musical artistry.
We invite you to revel in this triumph and look forward to continually lighting the blaze that fuels the industry. As we venture into fresh trails and uncharted melodies, A&R Duty continually stands as the guiding flame. Because passion never rests and ambition has no finish line.
For more information on A&R Duty’s serenading saga across 75 hours, or to schedule interviews and additional press inquiries, please contact:
Damilare Farotimi
Talent Relation Officer,A&R Duty
07069317052
Drey@aandrduty.com
A&R Duty, the trailblazing independent A&R platform in Africa, proudly announces its partnership with the remarkable music producer, Joshua Abba Jeremiah, famously known as “Hit sound,” for an audacious Guinness World Record attempt. Together, they will embark on the journey to break the record for the Longest Recording Marathon, an electrifying challenge that will span an incredible 72 hours and feature over 30 artists. This historic event will kickstart on September 21st and culminate on the 23rd, captivating audiences around the globe.
At A&R Duty, we believe in unlocking the full potential of artists and propelling their careers to new heights. As the first independent A&R platform in Africa to hire professional A&R, we constantly strive to redefine industry standards and empower artists with the knowledge and connections they need to succeed. Our partnership with Hit sound is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation.
Joshua Abba Jeremiah Professionally known as “Hit sound” is a Nigerian Record Producer, Songwriter, Youtuber & Entrepreneur from Kogi state, Nigeria.
He diversifies in various genres, mainly Afro beats, Dancehall, and Afropop music. Growing up in a music-inclined family, Hit sound began a music career in early secondary school before taking the big step of making a successful music production career while making industry moves. With a successful online music production career, Hit sound has immersed a wide fanbase of thousands over the years on YouTube and popular streaming platforms via his consistent release of Type Beats and Instrumentals with a wide daily increase in following and subscribers. Ranking at a top spot in a new wave of Afrobeat marketing and digital production mastery.
Hit sound’s aspirations extend far beyond personal success. His vision is rooted in recognizing and honoring the immense talent of Nigerian music producers, both established and emerging. This Guinness World Record attempt is not simply about breaking a record; it’s about giving recognition and flowers to these talented individuals, showcasing the power and influence of music in transcending boundaries and fostering collaboration within the industry.
During this record-breaking attempt, Hit sound will orchestrate a continuous recording session, pushing the limits of endurance, creativity, and collaboration. With each artist bringing their unique style to the table, this marathon will not only make musical history but also create an unparalleled sense of unity and camaraderie among musicians.
The current Guinness World Record for the Longest Recording Marathon with multiple artists stands at an impressive 40 hours and 19 minutes. Hit sound Producer aims to surpass this milestone, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft and amplifying the voices of music producers in Nigeria and beyond.
We invite music enthusiasts and supporters of the arts to join Hit sound and A&R Duty on this extraordinary journey. Witness the breaking of barriers, the making of history, and the creation of music that resonates with the soul. As Hit sound embarks on this epic recording session, stay tuned for updates on this ground-breaking endeavor, and be part of the movement shaping the future of the music industry.
For media inquiries and more information, please contact:
Farotimi Damilare
Talent Relation officer
support@aandrduty.com
Codest Boi stands out as a beacon of creativity and resilience in the vibrant landscape of Nigeria’s ever-evolving music scene. The Lagos-based artist has recently dropped his first offering of the year 2023, All My Love . it’s less than likely that he plans on letting his foot off the gas pedal.
Prior to his break into the music industry, CodestBoi had already started his music career in the year 2012. He nurtured his love for music all through his years in Ghana, up until he got into mainstream afrobeats.
His artistic journey began In March of 2018 when he released his first official singles titled “Jaye” and “Gradually” Just a few months after this launch he put out his hit single known as “Laye mi”, featuring Teni entertainer which earned him significant recognition in the music industry. Influenced by music mavericks like Wizkid. Drake, Shakka, Justin Bieber, Bryson Tiller, Wande
Coal, and Fela.
He draws inspiration from the greats of the Afrobeats, seamlessly blending their influences into his style, and what truly sets Codest Boi apart is his unwavering commitment to diversity and vulnerability in his music Personal growth played a pivotal role in the creation of this new upcoming project. Codest Boi explained, “A certain level of growth brings out a certain level of vulnerability. You begin to touch on things you usually would stay away from or try to suppress, and I did that with this album.” As
he enters a new era, listeners can expect a fresh set of sounds that may be uncommon for him. He acknowledges the unpredictability of his musical evolution, stating, “To be completely honest, I have no idea how my music will evolve and what direction it’ll go in the future, but to me, that’s the best part about it. The unknown is exciting. I have so many different styles, and honestly don’t know if I’ll end up leaning more in one direction than the other.”
If this is your first exposure to the rising artist, then you’re in luck because this is the perfect place to start., Codest Boi is undoubtedly an artist to keep on your watch.
At A&R Duty, we take pride in conducting exclusive interviews with independent bands, musicians, and artists from around the world. Our conversations dive deep into their upcoming releases, planned tour dates, and other fascinating topics that showcase their uniqueness and make them stand out from the crowd!
To be featured here and interviewed, submit here.
Get ready to dive into the extraordinary world of Firstklaz, the rising artist and songwriter who has been making waves with his infectious song “I Like Girls.” This visionary talent has captured the hearts of music lovers around the globe. In this exclusive interview, we have the privilege of delving into Firstklaz’s creative process, exploring his experiences in the entertainment capital, and uncovering his grand vision for the future. Brace yourself for a captivating conversation that will leave you inspired and eager to learn more about the mind behind the music. Prepare to be enchanted as we uncover the triumphs, challenges, and brilliant future that lies ahead for Firstklaz. Let’s get started!
Andrea: Hi Firstklaz, we’d love to know more about you and your preferences when it comes to the perfect night out. Can you share with us your ideal evening and the kind of company that would make it truly special?
Firstklaz: Absolutely! As an artist who values my personal space and finds comfort in quieter settings, my ideal night out reflects my innate introverted nature. Picture this: a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting, accompanied by a captivating art gallery or a serene acoustic performance. Surrounded by a select group of close friends or perhaps someone who understands my introversion, we would engage in deep conversations, appreciating the artistry and the beauty of the moment.
Whether it’s sharing laughter and stories amidst the company of like-minded souls or simply basking in the peaceful ambiance of a cozy reading nook, my ideal night out is all about nurturing meaningful connections and finding solace in the things that truly resonate with my introverted soul.
In summary, my perfect evening embraces the warmth of intimate settings, intellectual conversations, and a true appreciation for the arts. It’s all about creating unforgettable memories with individuals who understand and respect my introverted nature, allowing me to fully embrace the beauty of an ideal night out that aligns with who I am at my core. Thank you for the fantastic question!
Yeah, that’s good that’s interesting.
Andrea: Okay, so on days when you must go out because I mean it’s not something we can entirely rule out but on days when you just must go out, who would you like to go with you? Who would you take with you?
Firstklaz: Yeah, I have a friend whose name is web-plug.
Andrea: Web plug?
Firstklaz: Yeah, I like going out with him because he’s outspoken. Those kinds of people create opportunities for you. There are things I can’t say myself as an artist because it might come off as trying to brag, so I like going out with him because he says them on my behalf
Response (Andrea): I like that. I’m with you on that. I’m with you on that, everyone likes an intellectual speaker, and having that kind of person as a friend is a plus, a huge plus, and a breath of fresh air, I can’t lie.
Firstklaz: Yes, I’ve listened to your song, your music is so thrilling, and it catches my attention and the attention of the whole of A&R Duty, I can say that for sure.
Response (Andrea): Thank you.
Andrea: Who do you make music for?
Firstklaz: Everybody. yeah, my music is not boxed like it’s not limited to a particular set of people. I don’t like limiting myself because I feel like as humans, we can do anything we can imagine so I don’t like putting myself in a box. I try to do something everybody can enjoy.
Andrea: Firstklaz, networking plays an integral role in the art world, and we’d love to know more about your approach to it. How do you go about networking, and how does it fit into your artistic journey?
Firstklaz: That’s a great question. When it comes to networking, I believe it’s an essential part of the art world and a vital tool for any artist seeking to make their mark in the industry. For me, networking involves a multifaceted approach that encompasses both physical and digital outreach.
In terms of physical networking, I attend art events, exhibitions, and other gatherings within my community. These events provide an opportunity for me to meet other artists, art collectors, and industry professionals. By engaging with them and building meaningful relationships, I can expand my knowledge of the art world, gain valuable insights about exhibition opportunities, and build my reputation as an artist.
When it comes to digital networking, social media platforms are an excellent means for me to showcase my artwork, connect with other artists and industry professionals, and engage with a wider audience. Posting regularly, using relevant hashtags, and interacting with followers are essential aspects of digital networking for me.
Networking is not just about finding new opportunities, but it’s also about building lasting relationships. When you focus on building genuine connections, it becomes more than just a means to an end and instead becomes a fulfilling experience that helps you grow both professionally and personally.
Andrea: Your latest single “I like girls”. It has stunned our speakers and it has kept them awake a lot. I love it. Like I said before, I love it and I’d like to ask what the vision behind the track was. And tell us who was involved in the creation of that song.
Firstklaz: Okay the vision for that song is… most times when I pick up my phone, I’m on Twitter especially.
When I scroll through, I see people trying to insult women and say nasty stuff about them. Most people saying those things have sisters, we have significant others, we have so many special women in our lives, so I don’t know if they really like the fact people say stuff about their sisters and all that. women are very special; I think they deserve better
And in the creation of that song; The producer, hit sound was the producer that made the beats, crazy and he sent it to me then I just like created a song and I told him the song was going to blow up.
Response (Andrea): And it did. That’s interesting, it’s good to know and I like the fact that you put women in front of your music. you made something for them, gave them a place, gave them a voice, gave them confidence, it’s good to have people stand up for women. it’s good it’s good, I like that.
Andrea: So how are things with you and how has the reaction been since you released the music “I like girls” what has been the reaction of people?
Firstklaz: It’s been crazy I really had to log out of my Instagram from my phone now when I’m talking to you because I mean like my phone right now, notifications from different places so I just don’t want anything to distract this special interview, so I had to log off my Instagram. It’s been crazy people really love this song.
Response (Andrea): Interesting, interesting.
Andrea: Okay, moving on, do you have a particular project coming out soon?
Firstklaz: Yeah, okay I’m the type of guy that I might decide to drop something today, tomorrow I’ll stop feeling it then the next day after tomorrow I’ll come up with different stuff altogether. So, I’ve recorded more than seven projects. As I said earlier, I’m a very boring guy so music is the only thing I do, most of the time. like I have other stuff, but music is what I give like my hundred. yeah, so I record a lot.
I have a project that’s supposed to come out soon, “invalid”, or “format”. like a pack of three songs. oops; oops is a song on its own. Invalid, this is a song on its own, format is a song on its own. Oops, I’ve recorded it, I’ve done everything, I even shot the video for oops but like I said I’m this type of person now that will do something, and I’ll change my mind so that’s the only thing holding that project for now and I have a short feel for it.
I’m saying it here for the first time. This is the first time I’m announcing the project.
Response (Andrea): Oh, great Thanks for sharing that with us Well, we’ll be very happy to listen to those songs and see what you have for us we’ll be delighted to. so please try and release it soon for us, we’re starving.
Andrea: Yeah, lyrically we really like your storytelling and you really let us into your current mindset which is good do you feel that writing is becoming easier for you? like over time do you think writing has become easier for you?
Firstklaz: Yeah I think so and I have always wanted to write movies and books so that’s one of the things I’ve learned a lot of like from the lyrics I learned a lot from movies like those people writing movies script writers and those people writing book authors and all that I learned a lot from their steps everything like how they break things down so I think that is helping me in my songwriting.
Andrea: That’s impressive really, very impressive. Okay, we’ve basically gone over all the questions I’ve had scheduled for you do you have any questions you would like to ask?
Firstklaz: Uh not at all. yeah, and I would like to say big ups to you guys. You are doing a great job because we artists, Artists like me need to go through a lot to get ahead so people like you make our work easier.
Response (Andrea): “Appreciate the love! ❤️👏”
Response (Firstklaz): Yeah, keep supporting Afrobeat. It would be the next great thing. It would be the new R&B.
Response (Andrea): It will. well, the plan is to grow together and with talents like you I’m sure the sky is the stepping stone. so big ups keep it up we are very impressed with everything you’ve done and what you plan on doing moving on and we do hope to keep the relationship it’s been a great time having you on it’s been very interesting, very fun I like where you communicate I like your vision and of course, I love your song so thank you very much and like I said I do hope to hear from you soon I do hope to see more stuff from you soon yeah keep up the good work keep on mastering your crafts. The sky is just your starting point. Thank you.
Andrea: Okay one more question, what do you have planned for the rest of the year?
Firstklaz: Every year, I set a milestone I want to achieve for myself. And this year, I said I want to get like 500k followers on Instagram, and on every platform earlier this year I was at 4,000 followers and this is just June and I’ve gotten to like 25k so I still believe I can get there so and I have a lot of stuff coming to a lot of work like I really want to do this I don’t want to like I said earlier I don’t want to be boxed doing stuff for this set of people I want to do global stuff I want to like I’m really going to take afrobeat global like what I said earlier. Afrobeat is going to be like the next R&B. So, like before December I know a lot of things are going to happen and a lot of things will change.
Andrea: Definitely. You are in Lagos?
Firstklaz: Yes, I’m in Lagos.
Andrea: How has the vibe been since you got here?
Firstklaz: It’s been crazy!!! Lagos is not for the weak.
Andrea: So, what have you been up to since you got here?
Firstklaz: I have been recording. Working on more projects.
Andrea: Interesting, interesting. Okay, that’s good. That’s good. I guess we will wrap it up now. Thank you, thank you for having me. Thank you for giving us your time. I’ll leave you to enjoy the rest of your day. Enjoy your holiday. Thank you so much.
Firstklaz: Thanks for having me
Listen up further on his Spotify.
See more via the IG page.
Interviewed by “Andrew Ebosetaleh Andrea”
Getting the attention of an A&R can be difficult, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances of being seen by one. An A&R is responsible for signing new artists and developing careers. Not only does this person see potential in your work, but he or she can also provide feedback on how your music will fit best in the high-profile industry it was created for.
In today’s music industry, branding can play more of a role in an artist’s success than the music they create. Artists are not merely selling their music; they’re selling an image, an experience, and a message which defines them.
An artist is defined by their brand. People will remember the name of an established musician or artist much more than a person with no brands at all. You need to build your brand to get A&R (artists and repertoire) attention. This post will help you do just that!
A&R reps take more interest in an artist with a strong fan base. Expand your fan base by:
Having an established brand can give you an edge over other brands and producers. The more momentum and excitement you can build around your brand, the more likely an A&R will take notice.
Building relationships and networking in the music industry is always helpful. Boost your chances of getting noticed by making connections. Get out and connect with people, regardless of their status. Try to meet other artists, producers, DJs, publicists, booking agents, label staff, fans, and anyone else in the music scene. These connections could lead to opportunities. But you must be professional and approach them in a way that makes you seem like a businessperson.
Music discovery websites make it easier to capture new fans, discover new music, and more. Many connect you with the right people and services to help you advance your career in the music industry… They serve a valuable role in assisting independent musicians with industries for promotion, sales, and engagement. But which sites are best? Here’s a list of my top 4 favourite music discovery websites: SubmitHub, Pitchfork, Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and ReverbNation
Marketing and promotional strategies are essential in increasing outreach and getting your music heard. An effective marketing campaign will help you increase exposure, establish credibility, and open new opportunities. There are several excellent ways to promote your music and reach new audiences. Do some research on public relations and marketing strategies for musicians. Here is a description of the five most effective strategies you can use:
The best way to build and maintain a large, successful music career is to surround yourself with people who are just as passionate about your music as you are. You may not believe it at first, but there are many pieces to the puzzle when it comes to building this foundation. There’s management (with representation), publicists, agents, and attorneys. Each of these groups has relationships with label A&R reps — meaning if you’ve already got someone representing you — then all these people have some sort of pull in the form of following-up phone calls, emails, and future discussions/parties that could help move your career forward.
It’s a big news week for A&Rs in the African entertainment landscape.
The last decade has seen the African music industry undergo some cultural shift moments, evolution, and explosion internationally. By chance, think of development in lyricism, sound engineering, A&Ring, songwriting, and collaboration.
With many accolades to some major key players and decision makers – Like A&Rs who continue to keep their nose to the grindstone, working closely with labels and independent artists to provide the kind of work execution to showcase their artistry to the world. Closing strategic partnership deals with major international labels, international repertoire, publishing deals, and many more.
There is still so much more potential within the African music scene and the community that has grown around it and A&R duty are first of its kind in building a marketplace connecting all aspiring artists with producers, songwriters, and industry decision-makers. Will also be responsible for developing superstar talents in creating a music catalog and the business side of it.
A&R Duty is an independent creative-based company founded in November 2021. Providing creative support and services to both inspiring musicians, A&R executives, and industry networks in each of the music market ecosystems and exploring new collaborations, and opening a wealth of opportunities for music creatives.
Based in Nigeria but with global outreach, A&R duty will work closely with labels, music distribution companies, Music journalists, and music executives to serve as a trend spotter, and talent developer responsible for breaking new artists to the music business markets.
“THE COMPANY WILL POSITION ITSELF AS A TOP-OF-LINE AGENCY JOINING FORCES WITH CREATIVES AND EXECUTIVES, LOOKING TO CONNECT THE DOTS AMONG A&RS ACROSS THE AFRICAN MUSIC LANDSCAPE, PRODUCERS, SONGWRITERS ALIKE SUCCEED ON A GLOBAL SCALE”. According to Babatunde Makinde Williams, Co-founder and Director of A&R for A&R duty.
Over the few years, A&R Duty has previously worked closely with different independent labels and a variety of artist projects in the Nigerian music scene with proven stacked records, under the umbrella of a parent company “Gidioti Limited” all while supporting up-and-coming artists and involving in talent development programs and mentorship.
The company’s rosters have featured the likes of Los Angeles CA, based Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter Jackiesboy, Cynthia Morgan, Kiss Daniel, Dapo Tuburna, Chinko Ekun, Shaydee, Psalm E, Wale Turner, Dj Neptune, Dj Jimmy Jatt and many more.
Added Omotola Slasha, Head of Marketing For A&R duty, Our Modus operandi at A&R duty is special delivery, the company which will also operate as a community and marketplace for diverse cultures, languages, and creative collaboration amongst other interesting business and creative opportunities the company has to offer. Working alongside A&Rs in their drive to empower artists across the African music continents.
Looking forward to expanding our repertoire with new talent and opportunities whilst continuing to drive our artist-centric culture forward.
To read more about where the future of Artists and repertoire in the African music industry is headed through A&R duty and to sign up either as an A&R or Music artist visit here – http://www.aandrduty.com
Connect with A&R Duty on social media: @aandrduty
As the undisputed leader of A&R (Artists & Repertoire) in Nigeria, A&R Duty is an A&R services company with a difference. Where other companies claim to be one thing and turn out to be something else, making promises they can’t keep, we are honest and respectable people who believe in quality and value for money. We are true professionals who put YOU first.
A&R is a music industry task that has been around in Nigeria but still remains unknown to a large number of Nigerians. What exactly is the role of an A&R? With the gradual takeover of social media in Nigeria and the need for new music and songs, A&R becomes even more relevant within the Nigerian Music Industry.
A&R is a term used in the music industry that stands for Artists and Repertoire. A&R people are responsible for scouting new talent, signing acts, running established artists’ signings, and that ey often coming up with creative new ideas to keep the musicians popular. Sometimes A&R personnel get involved in an act starting from recording part of their demo recordings to producing their debut albums.
An A&R representative plays a pivotal role in the industry. An effective and professional A&R rep can find, pinpoint, and develop new artists while shunning those with insufficient talent from ever-releasing an album. Naturally, due to their importance in the business, some A&R reps earn large salaries in the seven figures, while others make small fortunes for themselves. No matter what the salary, these individuals must keep up with new music trends, listen to hundreds of albums each month, work long hours, go to many concerts, and scout anywhere they think they might find the next big name.
A&R DUTY is the only Independent A&R firm that signs and empower A&R Officer/Managers to join forces and respond to artists.
We are a team of A&R and music experts who conceptualize and execute bespoke artist development services to support our clients’ artists’ general careers, including their singleartistsum releases and tours. We design and develop artist strategies, target fan bases, and generate public awareness.
A&R DUTY offers A&R services that are unparalleled. The service it offers includes:- Signing and educating A&R. Signing, training, and empowering artists for you to maximize your brand succesartistsng term.- Acquiring and developing new talents or independent artists with their fan pages from grassroartistsajor online commercially successful artists. We also provide music production services to most of the signed acts we handle depending on the genre of music they are related to.- Managing your offline activities.- Promote your brand through quality digital marketing.- Sales and marketing strategies.
We can’t deny that Music is an integral part of us and has the capability to shape our lives.
If you’re looking for A&R Services in Nigeria, then our A&R department can help. We work with A&R and artists to produce music that gets airplay and helps gain fans. Our Music Selection Team (MSL) and A&R Department can also assist in finding producers, engineers, and even PR companies and shiz like that.
A&R Duty is a rating system that rates artists and their music on four different disciplines: Relatability, Delivery, Replay Value, and Mixing. We have created this company to help bring artist development to the forefront of the modern music business and bring about a positive change in the way artists push their music.
At A&R DUTY, we know that the most effective method of identifying hits is to find songs method resonate with our audience. We design innovative A&R services and techniques that are proven to get us closer to pinpointing these songs. Our dedicated teams of music experts and specialists help us uncover this untapped potential in your tracks and ensure that they are positioned to hit with listeners around the world. The audience must be able to relate to a song. The kind of lyrics you have on your music determines the audience that will listen to your song. There is a correlation between lyrics and audience. A bad lyric can make listeners become bored but a good lyric gives listeners something to relate to and appreciate.
It’s one thing to have a track, or even an album that you feel represents you well. But it’s another thing altogether to know how the music will be received by the listeners. The best way to do this is to get the perspective of someone in your target audience, and A&R services can provide that type of insight. An A&R representative can listen to your music and offer their thoughts on how popular it will be, what genre it would fit into, or many other things depending on the specifics of your project. Once you know this information, you can adjust based on their feedback and give your project the exposure it needs to succeed in the long run.
Are you looking to take your brand to the United States or across the world? Are you hoping to get a contract signed in Nigeria? Are you struggling with trying to find local music? Then you’ve come to the right place. If you’re facing these issues and many others, then A&R DUTY is the answer to your problems. Our team of dedicated professionals has 20+ years of experience in the music and entertainment industry. We know how to help you build your foundation and secure your future.