Donel, 18-year-old star of The Voice UK, has signed a major U.S. record deal with Warner Records and also a publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing. Donel signed both deals over Zoom, signaling an exciting new chapter in his young career.
Donel captivated the nation when he first appeared on The Voice UK at just 16-years-old. Coached by Will.i.am, he received a hand written letter from Prince Harry, inviting him to perform for Queen Elizabeth II’s 92nd birthday at The Royal Albert Hall. Introduced by Prince Harry on stage as ‘a star of the future,’ Donel went on to write & release debut single ‘Bang Like A Drum’ through Polydor Records.
He then spent the next 18 months developing his artistry, songwriting and social media following (clocking up over a million combined social followers, and 16m+ likes on TikTok).
Raised in Zimbabwe, Donel blends afrobeat with modern pop & R&B, weaving his native ‘Ndebele’ into his lyrics. He has written and collaborated with MNEK, Guilty Beatz, Pip Kembo, 2FVDED, Alan Sampson, Rymez, Daecolm, Dr Vades, The Writers Block, Dantae Johnson & many more.
Sending his toplines over Instagram to any artist that would listen, he caught the attention of both Major Lazer & Nigerian singer/songwriter, Mr Eazi, who included Donel’s latest single ‘Wish You Well’ in his African incubator program emPAWA.
After meeting Donel in a London session, Max Gousse, Founder & CEO, Artistry Records (Beyoncé, Saweetie) was so blown away by his talent he offered to sign both his publishing and record deal there and then. The partnership was born, and JV deals were soon signed through Max to both Warner Records & Sony/ATV out of the US.
