CKay Announces Departure from Warner Music South Africa, Signals New Era for Afrobeats Star

Global Afrobeats scene, Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Chukwuka Ekweani, popularly known as CKay, has amicably parted ways with Warner Music South Africa. The announcement, made on April 18, 2025, marks the end of a pivotal chapter in the artist’s meteoric rise and sets the stage for an exciting new phase in his career.

CKay, whose infectious hit “Love Nwantiti” became a global phenomenon, expressed gratitude for his time with Warner Music South Africa, describing the decision as mutual and forward looking. “Every journey has a beginning and an end, and my journey with Warner Music South Africa was a very important one which I’m grateful for,” he said in a statement. “Now it’s time for me to explore new energy and new horizons.”

The partnership with Warner Music South Africa, which began after CKay clarified his exit from Chocolate City in 2021, was instrumental in amplifying his international presence. During this period, CKay released two critically acclaimed albums, Sad Romance and Emotions, and delivered chart-topping singles like “Emiliana” and “By Now.” His music, blending Afrobeats with pop and R&B sensibilities, has garnered over 2 billion streams worldwide, cementing his status as one of Africa’s most influential artists.

“Love Nwantiti,” in particular, became a cultural juggernaut, dominating global charts, inspiring viral TikTok challenges, and earning CKay a legion of fans across continents. The song’s success underscored the growing global appetite for Afrobeats, with CKay at the forefront of the genre’s mainstream crossover.

As he embarks on this new chapter, CKay is poised to release music under his own imprint, a move that signals greater creative control and artistic independence. Industry insiders anticipate that his upcoming projects will continue to push the boundaries of Afrobeats, blending innovative sounds with his signature emotive storytelling. Warner Music South Africa issued a statement praising CKay’s contributions to the label and the genre at large. “We are immensely proud of the work we’ve accomplished together and wish CKay continued success in his future endeavors,” the statement read.

CKay’s departure comes at a time when Afrobeats is experiencing unprecedented global recognition, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems also making waves on the international stage. His next steps will be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike, as he continues to shape the sound of modern African music. For now, CKay’s message to his fans is one of optimism and ambition. “This is just the beginning of something new,” he teased on social media, hinting at fresh music.