In a major industry move, Sony Music Publishing has announced the signing of Nigerian singer-songwriter Odeal to a worldwide publishing agreement.
The deal, announced December 8, 2025, arrives on the heels of Odeal’s critically acclaimed album The Fall That Saved Me and cements his status as one of the most exciting new voices in global music.
The 25-year-old artist, born Hillary Dennis Udanoh in Germany and raised across Spain, the UK, and Nigeria, has had a meteoric rise. His career reached a new level with the viral TikTok success of the Afro-fusion track “Soh-Soh,” which served as a launchpad for a remarkable awards season. In 2025 alone, Odeal won two MOBO Awards (Best Newcomer and Best R&B Act), received a BET Award nomination, and was named Billboard’s African Rookie of the Year.
“My vision has always been to make music that touches people around the world,” Odeal commented on the new partnership. “So choosing partners who truly believe in that vision is important to me”. Sony Music Publishing’s senior director, Shauni Caballero, praised the signing as “more than a business move,” calling it “the natural next step in a relationship built on passion, respect and a shared vision”.
The deal represents significant global backing for Odeal’s unique sound—a blend of Afrobeats, alternative R&B, and soul that has attracted praise from stars like Justin Bieber and SZA.
It follows his signing to the Atlanta-based label LVRN (Love Renaissance) in late 2024 and positions him for an even bigger international stage in the year ahead.
