Defected Records Welcomes Kid Fonque as Head of A&R
Defected Records is excited to announce the addition of Kid Fonque, also known as Allan Nicoll, as Head of A&R. The South African DJ and producer is a veteran in the electronic music industry, having held the position of Label Manager at the legendary Soul Candi Records. He is also a pioneer of South African and Mzansi house music, having launched Stay True Sounds in 2016 with fellow producer Jullian Gomes.
Stay True Sounds has played a vital role in launching the careers of many South African artists, such as China Charmeleon, Dwson, Jazzuelle, Chronical Deep, Fka Mash, and more. The label has been instrumental in showcasing the talent of South African artists to the rest of the world.
In addition to his work with Stay True Sounds, Kid Fonque is also well-known for his “Selective Styles” show on 5FM, which aired each Sunday. The show, which highlighted the best in underground house and electronic music, had a dedicated following and was a staple for fans of the genre. Although the show has come to a close on 5FM, fans can still tune in from the Defected Records basement every Sunday from their YouTube channel and Kid Fonque’s Mixcloud and Soundcloud.
As part of Kid Fonque’s move from South Africa to London, Stay True Sounds will be added to Defected Records’ catalogue of sub-labels. This will ensure that the creator stays closely involved with the project, while also having the opportunity to make numerous trips back home each year to continue sourcing and promoting South African talent in Europe.
Defected Records is a leading independent record label and production company based in London, which has been producing and promoting exceptional house music to a global audience for many years. With the addition of Kid Fonque and Stay True Sounds to the Defected team, the company is looking forward to continued growth and success in the industry.
Simon Dunmore, the founder and former CEO of Defected Records, said, “I have been impressed with Allan since his days at Soul Candi. His progress as Stay True Sounds label owner and Selective Styles radio presenter dovetail perfectly into Defected’s existing structure. Moving from South Africa to relocate in London shows real commitment, and I am excited by the prospect of working alongside him.”
Wez Saunders, the current CEO of Defected Records, added, “Kid Fonque’s extensive experience and passion for electronic music make him the perfect addition to our team. We are excited to see what the future holds for Defected Records with him on board.”
Overall, Defected Records is thrilled to welcome Kid Fonque to the team and is excited to see the impact his vast experience, knowledge, and passion will have on the label and its artists in the future, as well as to continue to hear his Selective Styles show.
