British actor Idris Elba executes the ultimate professional crossover via his establishment of 7Wallace Music, a newly conceived record label that will see French artist James BKS emerge as the imprint’s inaugural signee.

7Wallace Music evidences Elba’s increased interest in the ins and outs of hip hop music production, and Elba’s introduction of James BKS as the 7Wallace Music’s first artist only further illustrates Elba’s storied focus on the hip hop genre. “James is a rare find,” Elba said, “his hip-hop sensibilities transfer to the other music he makes, he’s a nice person to work with and is [going to be] a strong artist in the future. It’s a huge move for 7Wallace, a small indie label.”

James BKS’ single, “Kwlele” will be released on July 13, with features from Dibango and Allan Kingdom. A fusion of hip hop, pop, and African musical elements, “Kwlele” is an artistic nod to the Kwele ethnic group of Gabon, Republic of Congo, and Cameroon.

The single functions as an additional tribute to James BKS’ own roots, as James BKS’ family is from Cameroon. “I want people to get to know my journey,” James said. “The song is the musical answer to my inner questions. Finally I can be proud of my roots and say this music is fully me.”

H/T: Billboard

Tags: 7Wallace Music, idris elba, James BKS

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