Defected Records launches new Afro House label Sondela

Alexandre Trochut

Launched on 5th February Sondela will be curated by A&R Managers Sef Kombo & Louie Dunmore & all profits going to non-profit organisation Bridges For Music.

Another move for Defected’ boss Simon Dunmore, the launch of Sondela will come under the Defected family of labels, alongside Classic Music CompanyGlitterbox Recordings and DFTD & run by his own son Louie Dunmore alongside with Sef Kombo.

“ I am so excited to begin my journey with Sondela Records and to be working alongside Sef Kombo. Aligning with Bridges For Music will help me in my own personal development while providing an excellent opportunity to discover creative talent and dig deep to source new music.”
– Louie Dunmore, A&R at Sondela Records

Together, they will curate the label’s output, with all profits going to Bridges For Music, a non-profit organisation based in South Africa.

Making a positive impact in disadvantaged communities and helping to raise global awareness about local issues through music by by gathering key players of the music industry to support responsible progress in developing countries.

” I’ve been really happy being part of Sondela, I’ve always wanted to be a part of shining the light on the amazing talents from my home continent, bridging the worlds together to new listeners and also to release amazing future classic records. Even at this early stage in my A&R journey, I’ve learnt so much and so keen to learn more at Sondela.”
– Sef Kombo, A&R at Sondela Records

The first Sondela’ single track will be ‘Ezizweni’ and comes from African house artist Hyenah, collaborating with Durban superstar and Afrotainment founder DJ Tira and Afro-Jazz singer Luke Ntombela.

Hyenah has become an advocate of the genre in Europe, hosting Watergate’s RISE residency, one of the few regular African house club nights in Berlin, and showcasing his impeccable knowledge of the genre with a now infamous Boiler Room set.

The second Sondela release, ‘Ancestor’s Calling’ will come from Native Tribe & TTAN on 5th March 2021, with remixes from Enoo Napa and Saint Evo.