Humanitarian, TV host, model, and beauty queen Leila Lopes is using her spectrum of talents to launch brand new record label, The Uprise. Having earned the title of Miss Universe in 2011, the Angolan native is aiming to unite nations through the universal language of music. Ushering elements of Brazilian (Baile) Funk and Kuduro, and American Hip Hop into the UK’s world of grime and trap, the London-based record label already boasts a roster of diverse artists equipped to challenge the paradigm of mainstream music.
Leila Lopes says: “The idea behind the music is make uplifting, unique, meaningful music in this era where so much sounds the same. It’s also to try and connect people from all different cultures and backgrounds because we understand music is universal.”
The label’s first signings include polymath performer Grace Rhodes who merges pop sensibilities with diasporic production, and underground star Andi McErnest. Producers extraordinaire MikesPro and Zeeko complete a roster of burgeoning talent drawing on influences from across the globe.
Having studied for a degree in business management at the University of Suffolk in Ipswich, Lopes is lending her business acumen to provide this launch pad for emerging artists. This record label is truly The Uprise by name, The Uprise by nature.