1LaNe Concludes 2025 With Defining Wins Across Songwriting, Publishing, Distribution

By Folake Ajao

Independent African music company 1LaNe (1 Lift artists ’N’ empower) closes out 2025 with a year marked by significant progress across songwriting, publishing and music distribution.

Founded in 2022 by A&R executive Olalekan Uthman, the company continued to strengthen its role within Africa’s music ecosystem through focused artist development and strategic execution.

A major highlight of the year came through international recognition for 1LaNe artist and songwriter Zichy, who received Grammy nomination recognition for his contribution as a co writer on “Gimme Dat” by Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid.

The milestone reflects the steady growth of Zichy’s career and stands as one of the company’s most notable global achievements of the year.

Throughout 2025, Zichy delivered an extensive run of songwriting credits across high profile African and international releases. His work appeared on records by Wizkid, Olamide, Tyla, Davido, Zlatan, Bella Shmurda, Mayorkun, Guchi, Dice Ailes, BOJ, DJ Nektunez and Mr Eazi.

These contributions included “Kai” by Olamide and Wizkid, “Lighter” by A7S, David Guetta and Wizkid, “Blessings on Blessings” by Mayorkun featuring Davido, “Hip Hop Messiah” by Zlatan featuring Davido, “No Jønze” by Patoranking, “Apala Fusion” and “Fuji Fusion” by Bella Shmurda, “Dynamite” by Tyla and Wizkid, multiple records with Guchi, and closed out the year with “Baddi Ah” by DJ Nektunez featuring Tiwa Savage, Ciza and Shoday.

Bardbanks also recorded a strong year, contributing to key projects by Davido, Adekunle Gold, Magixx and L.A.X. His 2025 credits included “Be There Still” by Davido, “Unlimited” by Magixx, “Dr. Love” by L.A.X featuring Young Jonn, as well as multiple tracks with Adekunle Gold including “Coco Money,” “Believe,” “Only God Can Save Me” and “Obimo.” His consistent placements across major releases further expanded 1LaNe’s footprint.

On the distribution front, 1LaNe continued to scale following the launch of its distribution arm in March 2024. In 2025, the company distributed hundreds of releases, including “Bad Girl” by DJ Hacord and Skales and “Lagos Crazy” by DJ Phil featuring Yababuluku Boyz and Smada. The company also remained committed to regional representation by distributing music from Eastern Nigerian artists such as Preto, Evado and Aguero Banks.

Further platform recognition came when DJ Hacord was named Apple Music Africa Now DJ Mix curator for August 2025, reflecting the company’s growing presence on global streaming platforms and its ongoing work supporting DJ culture.

As it moves into the next year, 1LaNe is focused on expanding its publishing operations, strengthening its distribution network and building partnerships that support artists, songwriters and DJs across Africa and the diaspora.

The company remains open to strategic collaborations with artists, songwriters, producers, DJs, and industry partners whose vision aligns with its long-term goals.

Partnership inquiries may be directed through 1LaNe’s official channels.