In a world where Lagos often overshadows other creative cities, Happy Agi, founder of LightUp Record Label, is building something different—an ambitious, talent-first movement grounded in Port Harcourt with aspirations far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Founded in 2024, LightUp Records emerged from Agi’s deep passion for music, his belief in the creative brilliance of young Nigerians, and a desire to dismantle the barriers that have long limited artists from the Niger Delta.
According to Agi, “The label was born out of an urgent need to amplify the voices of underrepresented artists, especially those from Rivers State.”
Rooted in Vision, Driven by Impact
For Agi, launching a record label was more than a business decision—it was a personal mission inspired by the success stories of artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Omah Lay. But more importantly, it was about giving young people the structure and support they need to achieve greatness.
The label’s debut artist, Peedaking, embodies that mission. Discovered during the first edition of the LightUp Port Harcourt Music Festival in March 2024, Peedaking had been on Agi’s radar for some time. After seeing him perform again at the Big Grill Party later that year, Agi was convinced: “His unique music style, voice, and energy on stage stood out. That was the moment I knew he had to be our first artist.”
Who Is Peedaking?
Born Precious Sunday Johnson; Peedaking is a Port Harcourt-based artist whose sound blends Afrobeat, rap, and soulful storytelling. A graduate of Public Administration from Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Peedaking’s music journey began as a freestyle rapper and singer—today, he’s poised to break new ground on the global stage.
His debut single, “Mi Amor,” released under LightUp Records, is already gaining traction across digital platforms. “It’s the first step in supporting his journey. The melody is captivating, the rhythm addictive, and the lyrics deeply relatable,” says Agi.
The LightUp Philosophy: Artist-Centric, Globally Minded
More than just a label, LightUp is a talent incubator. According to Agi, the team has committed to investing ₦500 million over the next two years in talent development, infrastructure, and industry collaborations.
Currently focused on Afrobeats and Afro-fusion, the label prides itself on robust artist development—offering everything from music production to brand building, live performance prep, and long-term career planning. The goal is not just to sign artists, but to nurture stars with staying power.
“We have a world-class management team in place,” Agi says. “We’re not just focused on the present. We’re building structures for the future.”
Expanding the Movement
Though LightUp Records currently operates from its Lagos studio, the brand’s roots remain in Port Harcourt. Plans are already in motion to open a dedicated Port Harcourt branch in 2026, and to sign a second artist by mid-2025.
Global visibility is top priority. With new releases planned for Peedaking—including a second single and full EP—LightUp is ready to launch its sound far beyond Nigeria. Agi is confident that “Peedaking and our next artist will gain international limelight from late 2025 into 2026.”
Collaborations and surprise partnerships are in the pipeline, but for now, Agi is keeping those under wraps: “We want our audience to be pleasantly surprised.”
More Than Music: Building a Legacy
What sets LightUp Records apart isn’t just its business model—it’s the depth of vision. Agi’s childhood love for music evolved into a calling. Today, he balances creative direction with business leadership, supported by an experienced general manager and team.
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring music entrepreneurs, Agi says: “Don’t enter music just for the money. You have to love it. Good music is healing—it refreshes the soul. That’s where it starts.”
The Future Is Bright—and Just Getting Started
With a solid foundation, a clear creative direction, and a rapidly growing audience, LightUp Records is poised to become a major player in Africa’s music industry.
For Agi, it all comes back to purpose: “This is the time for Afrobeats. Other continents have had their time. Now, it’s ours—and we plan to give the world the very best of what Africa has to offer.”
Peedaking’s “Mi Amor” is now streaming on all major platforms.
Follow him:
Instagram: @peedaking_gram
TikTok: @peedaking_
YouTube: Peedaking Official
X: @_peedaking
