Jon Muq Launched Shake It Africa Record Label

The Austin-based songwriter established a new platform to connect African artists with global live music audiences.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Reggae

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stylized musical instrument bridge connecting to a melodic curve, representing cultural connection. — Songwriter Jon Muq has launched the record label Shake It Africa to provide production resources and global performance platforms for emerging African artists. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Kampala-born musician Jon Muq established Shake It Africa, a record label and production company focused on developing African artists. The venture facilitates cultural exchange through music and recurring live entertainment experiences in Austin and the Netherlands.

Why it matters

The label aims to bridge the gap between emerging African talent and global listeners while providing the necessary production resources to elevate artists' creative standards. By managing both the creative development and live logistics, the company provides a comprehensive support structure for international performance.

The label's inaugural Muntu Bantu project features a 10-song collection showcasing multiple African musicians. This release is complemented by the debut single Shake Shake Dance For Me.

The players

Jon Muq

He is a vocalist and songwriter from Kampala, Uganda, who now operates a label out of Austin.

The details

Shake It Africa utilizes a combination of Instagram marketing, targeted advertisements, and direct community outreach to manage its monthly performance schedule. The organization builds local partnerships in host cities prior to artist arrivals to ensure consistent event logistics.

Jon Muq moved from Kampala, Uganda, to Austin in March 2018.
Muq released his own debut album through Easy Eye Sound in 2024.
The label launch was noted in reports published in September 2026.

Industry Dynamics

This venture highlights a shift toward decentralized management and direct-to-audience models in the music industry. It reflects a growing industry focus on bridging regional creative talent with global touring infrastructure.

Local residents in Austin can attend the label's monthly live events to discover new international music. These performances provide a direct avenue for fans to experience African artists who may have limited regional exposure.

The takeaway

This label provides a structured path for independent artists to access international performance venues through coordinated logistics. Aspiring musicians can note the effectiveness of building community relationships locally before planning large-scale event tours.