Mumbai: Universal Music has inked a joint venture with producer RedOne, and his record label 2101 Records. The international Grammy winning hit maker was recently honored as Billboard Producer Of The Year and BMI Songwriter of The Year.

The venture is with Universal Music International and each Artist signing to 2101/Universal will be strategically placed with the label within the UMG Group that offers the best fit.

RedOne’s first signing to 2101 is singer, songwriter, performer, dancer and superstar in waiting Mohombi. RedOne and Mohombi are currently jetting between studios in the songwriting centers of excellence to record Mohombi’s debut album. The first single from which will be “Bumpy Ride”, scheduled to release on 4 October, 2010.

Mohombi will be distributed by Island Records in the UK and Cherry Tree / Interscope in the US. RedOne will A&R, Executive Producer and Produce all artists signed to 2101 Records.

“We are incredibly fortunate to be launching with an Artist like Mohombi, who has so much potential. He is a powerhouse talent … writing, singing, performing, and dancing. Mohombi lifts my spirits and I believe he will elevate the world with his music. DANCE ON :-),” says RedOne.

Born to a Swedish mother and Congolese father, 23-year-old Mohombi, draws on his diverse cultural heritage to create a musical style that is as unique and distinctive as it is universal. Combining African influences with a Global pop sensibility, Mohombi’s sound is destined for worldwide success. The hugely infectious, ‘Bumpy Ride’, which is set to be 2010’s mega summer’s scorcher, is a testament to this.