Universal Music India has entered into a global distribution partnership with first.wav, a fast-growing music company focused on supporting India’s independent artists. Under the exclusive agreement, Universal Music India will distribute music from first.wav’s roster of artists across global platforms, strengthening the international reach of emerging Indian independent music talent.

According to a Universal Music press release, the collaboration is aimed at expanding opportunities for independent Indian artists by combining first.wav’s artist-focused ecosystem with Universal Music India’s global distribution network and industry expertise. The move comes at a time when India’s indie music scene is witnessing rapid growth, with artists increasingly building audiences beyond regional and national boundaries.

The partnership is expected to give first.wav’s artists wider visibility through global music platforms while also opening access to new markets, audiences, and strategic support systems. first.wav already operates a growing digital ecosystem that includes playlist networks with more than 400,000 followers and social media communities exceeding 300,000 followers collectively.

Founded by singer-songwriter and A&R professional Raghav Meattle, first.wav positions itself as a company built “by artists, for artists,” offering support across artist management, distribution, and marketing. Over the years, the company has worked with a growing list of artists including gini, Divyam Sodhi, Bharath, Khwaab, Samad Khan, and actor-musician Kunal Kemmu, helping them scale their music presence and audience engagement.

Speaking about the collaboration, Raghav Meattle, Founder of first.wav, said the Indian independent music industry is currently at a defining stage of evolution. “Our goal is to build the environment that allows artists to focus on what they do best — create. Whether it’s through management, marketing, or distribution, we’re creating an ecosystem that supports artists at every stage of their journey. This partnership is just the next step towards shaping the future of Indian indie music,” he said.

Sanujeet Bhujabal, Managing Director, Universal Music India and South Asia, said artistry remains central to the company’s culture and long-term vision. He added that the partnership with first.wav aligns naturally with Universal Music India’s focus on empowering artists across different segments of the Indian music landscape.

“Partnering with an artist-forward music company like first.wav — with its rich ecosystem that supports artists from across the indie community — is a natural fit,” Bhujabal said.

The partnership marks another significant step in the ongoing expansion of India’s independent music ecosystem, as global labels and local artist-focused companies increasingly collaborate to build stronger infrastructure, discover new talent, and create scalable opportunities for Indian musicians worldwide.