Skip to main content

Viral Star Elijah Connor Goes Major: Inks Major Label Deal with SRG-ILS/Virgin Music Group - UMG, Announces Debut EP & Memoir

Viral sensation and recording artist Elijah Connor has signed with SRG-ILS/Virgin Music Group-UMG, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in his career. He unveils his debut EP, The Book of Eli, and memoir, Behind The Stare, both set for release in 2025.

-- Elijah Connor Joins SRG-ILS Group/Virgin Music/Universal Music Group

Elijah Connor, the rising star in modern R&B, has officially joined the SRG-ILS Group roster, alongside his label, Purple Rain Entertainment, in partnership with Virgin Music Group, a division of Universal Music Group. This partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying Connor’s position as one of R&B’s most dynamic and exciting new voices.

Backed by the unmatched industry expertise and global reach of SRG-ILS/Virgin Music Group-UMG, Elijah Connor’s musical journey is primed to soar to unprecedented heights.

Through his label, Purple Rain Entertainment, this monumental partnership aims to introduce Connor’s electrifying presence to a global audience, establishing him as a key figure in the genre.

"We are thrilled to work with Elijah and the Purple Rain Entertainment team," said Claude Villani, President of SRG-ILS Group. “Elijah is a uniquely gifted multifaceted singer who is about to breakthrough in a major way. We look forward to introducing him to the world via our partnership with Virgin Music Group (UMG)."

Elijah Connor expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "Partnering with SRG-ILS through my imprint Purple Rain Entertainment is a true honor. Claude Villani’s vision and passion for music make him an unmatched leader. His dedication to preserving the essence of music while elevating it has made SRG the powerhouse it is today. I’m excited to continue building on my musical legacy and sharing this next chapter with the world.”

Upcoming Releases: Behind The Stare and The Book of Eli

In addition to new music, Elijah Connor is set to release his debut memoir, Behind The Stare—a compelling and unexpected revelation. In this electrifying tell-all, Connor pulls back the curtain on the unforgettable viral moment with Sean "Diddy" Combs that skyrocketed him into the spotlight. Offering an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at his journey through fame, music, and personal growth, Behind The Stare is a raw, unfiltered read that promises to captivate, inspire, and expose the untold truths behind the stare. With shocking revelations and personal insights Behind The Stare promises to leave you breathless, the memoir will be available for pre-order starting May 6, 2025, and officially released via Penguin Light Publishing. 

This summer, Elijah Connor is set to release his highly anticipated debut EP, The Book of Eli, on July 18, 2025. In collaboration with Purple Rain Entertainment and SRG-ILS Group/Virgin Music Group - UMG, this nine-track project promises to offer a powerful and transformative R&B experience. The Book of Eli takes listeners on an intimate journey through love, passion, vulnerability, and raw emotion, all delivered with Connor's signature smooth vocals. Redefining modern R&B, this EP is bold, introspective, and sonically refined—each track drawing you deeper into his world. With undeniable charm and magnetic presence, Connor has quickly become one of the genre’s most exciting rising stars. From sultry slow jams and heartfelt love ballads to high-energy tracks, this EP solidifies Elijah Connor as a groundbreaking new force in R&B—an artist set to leave a lasting impact and keep fans coming back for more.

Elijah Connor’s Philanthropic Efforts

Elijah Connor is not only making an impact in music but also in the world of philanthropy. As a new partner and brand ambassador for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, he is supporting the Love Music Stop Cancer campaign, which raises awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. His involvement with the #MusicGives initiative underscores his commitment to using his platform to support important causes.

"I am proud to partner with St. Jude and contribute to the Love Music Stop Cancer campaign," said Connor. "This cause is deeply personal to me—my brother is a cancer survivor, and I’ve seen firsthand the strength and hope it takes to fight. Music has the power to uplift and heal, and I’m honored to use my voice to help raise awareness and support for families facing this battle." 

From Viral Sensation to R&B Powerhouse

Elijah Connor first gained widespread attention during his appearance on the second season of The Four: Battle for Stardom, where his heartfelt performance of Musiq Soulchild’s “Love” won over audiences. However, it was his now-iconic stare-down with Sean “Diddy” Combs that made him a viral sensation, garnering over 900 million impressions and propelling his career into the public spotlight.

Since then, Connor has continued to prove his staying power. His 2024 independently released single, Worth It,produced by Romano and OG Parker (Muni Long, Drake, and Chris Brown), climbed to #23 on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart, where it held its spot for 10 consecutive weeks. The song’s success, paired with its globally viewed music video, solidified Connor’s reputation as a rising R&B star.

"I want people to feel seen and valued," Connor says of “Worth It.” "It’s a song about self-worth and love, and seeing it resonate with so many people has been incredible."

What’s Next for Elijah Connor?

With the support of SRG-ILS/Virgin Music Group/UMG, Elijah Connor’s musical journey is poised for even greater success. As he prepares to release his debut EP, Connor is proving he’s more than just a viral moment—he’s a name to remember.

About Elijah Connor
A Motown native and the son of a preacher, R&B singer Elijah Connor brings a rich musical heritage. As the younger cousin of the legendary music icon Prince, his royal musical lineage is undeniable, yet Connor is carving out his own distinct path. Known for his smooth vocals and electrifying presence, he seamlessly blends classic soul with contemporary R&B, creating his own signature sound that is both fresh and timeless. Rising to worldwide fame after his viral moment on The Four: Battle for Stardom, Connor has since established himself as an accomplished singer, songwriter, actor, and producer. As he continues to push creative boundaries, Elijah Connor’s debut EP and memoir, set for release in 2025, will mark an exciting new chapter in his ever-growing legacy.

Partners - SRG-ILS Group

The SRG-ILS is globally distributed by Virgin Music Group/Universal Music Group. We embrace new technologies and business models to empower artists and labels to fully engage and participate in their careers, their recording, and ownership. Through a spectrum of services, SRG-ILS is redefining the relationship between music creators and the marketplace with clients including Keke Palmer, UB40, Chaka Khan, Lalah Hathaway, Anthony Hamilton and many others. Visit thesrg-ilsgroup.com for more information.

Media Contact:

2R’s Entertainment & Media PR
Ra-Fael@2RsEntandMediaPR.com

Elijah Connor
R&B Singer, Songwriter, and Producer
Instagram: @elijahconnor
YouTube: Elijah Connor Music

Contact Info:
Name: Elijah Connor
Email: Send Email
Organization: 2R’s Entertainment & Media PR
Website: https://thesrg-ilsgroup.com

Release ID: 89157428

If there are any deficiencies, discrepancies, or concerns regarding the information presented in this press release, we kindly request that you promptly inform us by contacting error@releasecontact.com (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our dedicated team is committed to addressing any identified issues within 8 hours to guarantee the delivery of accurate and reliable content to our esteemed readers.

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.