NASHVILLE, TN, USA (February 17, 2022)—Motown Gospel, a division of Capitol CMG/Capitol/Universal Music Group, announces the signing of South African singer, songwriter, and television personality HLE to an exclusive recording agreement. The partnership is the first of its kind, representing the only direct signing of a global artist in the famed label’s 23-year history.

Today’s announcement comes after a whirlwind season of success for HLE, spurred on by her acclaimed Your Kingdom on Earth. The project peaked at the #1 position on Apple Music’s Gospel Albums chart in 7 countries and landed key positioning in the U.S. & Canada across various streaming platforms. Among the many accolades that followed were 3 South African Music Award (SAMA) nominations, including Female Artist of the Year and Best Live Audio Visual Recording, ultimately winning the honor for Best Contemporary Faith Album.

“As a powerful multimedia presence, HLE seamlessly combines creativity and beauty with personal ministry,” share Monica Coates & EJ Gaines, Co-Executive Directors of Motown Gospel. “HLE elegantly transcends culture. We are delighted to partner with her in her vision to reach a global audience.”

“Motown Gospel/Capitol CMG is a true giant of the industry, known for cultivating some of the world’s greatest artists,” exclaims HLE. “I’m excited to become one of them as my music is taken across the globe.”

In addition to her thriving solo career, HLE recently began hosting VIP Invite, an uplifting television series that offers viewers a front-row seat to entertaining and uplifting musical experiences each week. Season 2 of the popular program will premiere this Sunday, February 20th at 17:00 CAT on Mzansi Magic Music DSTV channel 321.

HLE is currently at work on new music. Her debut offering with Motown Gospel/Capitol CMG is expected to come later this year, introducing HLE to the U.S. & Canada gospel marketplaces, while leveraging existing synergies within UMG’s global network.