Idris Elba Launches New Record Label & Elba Foundation

Idris Elba, the acclaimed British actor, producer, and DJ has announced the launch of his new venture, Sound Intl, a record label dedicated to promoting house music talent from around the world. Inspired by his uncle’s legendary 1980s sound system from London, Sound Intl aims to celebrate the diversity of house music and its deep roots in freedom and unity. The label, as Elba describes, is open-minded and eclectic, much like his uncle’s original sound system, which brought together people from all walks of life through a shared love of music.

Elba’s ambitious goal for Sound Intl is to sign records from every country, allowing the label to tell stories that often go unheard and give artists from various backgrounds a platform to share their work. The first release from the label is set to drop this Friday, signaling the beginning of what Elba promises to be a “never ending house” journey—where the possibilities of house music are explored without boundaries.

In tandem with the launch of his record label, Idris Elba is furthering his efforts to give back to young people through the Idris Elba Foundation, which focuses on supporting emerging talent in creative industries such as filmmaking and DJing. This initiative is close to Elba’s heart, as he credits the Prince’s Trust—a UK-based charity that helped him pursue his acting career—with giving him the opportunity that changed his life. He is now paying it forward through his Creative Futures initiative, which aims to inspire young people from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue their dreams in the creative arts.

Elba’s Foundation is partnered with both the Prince’s Trust and the Elba Hope Foundation, providing support and mentorship to young individuals in Manchester who are looking to break into creative fields. “My story could be your story,” Elba says, encouraging young people to take advantage of the resources offered through Creative Futures to help them achieve their career aspirations.

Idris Elba’s dual ventures—Sound Intl and the Idris Elba Foundation—represent his ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, breaking barriers, and celebrating the diverse voices in music and film. His passion for creating opportunities for the next generation is clear, and through these initiatives, Elba is set to make a lasting impact on the global creative scene.