Universal Music Group East Africa (UMG EA) has announced the signing of Rwandan artist Ariel Wayz. The dynamic musician, known for her unique sound and impactful presence, is set to take her career to new heights under the global music imprint.
Ariel Wayz has been rapidly gaining recognition for her exceptional talent, captivating voice, and ability to blend various musical genres, making her one of the most exciting artists to watch in the region. Now, with UMG EA’s support, she is poised to broaden her reach and solidify her place as a major force in the African music industry.
“It still feels surreal. I am excited for what’s coming,” Ariel Wayz said. “This is a huge step in my journey, and I’m thrilled to be able to share my music with the world.”
With the new partnership, Ariel Wayz promises her fans a multitude of exciting projects and collaborations dotting the rest of the year.
“Expect a lot of projects. A lot of collaborations,” Ariel promised, hinting that this upcoming creative phase will showcase her versatility and innovative approach to music.
When asked why Universal Music Group East Africa is the perfect fit for this phase of her career, Ariel reflected on the gravity of this moment saying it is a dream that came at the right time. “It feels right because I have been building towards a step where I start pushing my music beyond my country. With UMG EA, I feel like I can accomplish that.”
Universal Music Group East Africa, known for its dedication to nurturing and elevating African talent, is the ideal platform to amplify Ariel’s global aspirations. The signing marks a new chapter for the young artist, who is ready to make a lasting impact on the African music scene and beyond.
Born Uwayezu Arielle on September 9, 2000, in Rubavu, Rwanda, Ariel Wayz is a rising star in the East African music scene. Raised in a family of musicians, with her mother singing in Orchestre Ingeri during the 1990s, Ariel’s passion for music began early. She honed her craft at the Nyundo School of Music, earning a scholarship in 2015.
She first gained widespread recognition in 2021 with her hit single ‘Away’ featuring Juno Kizigenza, which became a radio sensation. Known for her versatility, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and contemporary hip hop, Ariel’s music resonates with a diverse audience.
Her discography includes standout tracks like ‘You Should Know’, ‘Good Luck’, ‘Demo’ (feat. Sagamba, Soldier Kid, Bruce the 1st & Kivumbi King), ‘Shayo’, and ‘Wowe Gusa’.
Ariel has released multiple EPs, including Love & Lust (2021) and Touch the Sky, while her debut album Hear to Stay (2025) marks a significant milestone in her career. With a powerful voice and emotionally resonant lyrics, Ariel continues to enthral music fans in Rwanda and Beyond, creating an impressive record as one of finest artists of her generation.
Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries.
Featuring the most comprehensive catalog of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world.
Committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. Universal Music Group is a Vivendi company.
