The actor also announced the first act who has signed to his label, a French-Cameroonian artist James BKS.

• Jul 4, 2018

AceShowbiz - Idris Elba has launched his own record label and unveiled his first signing as a music executive.

The "Thor" actor, who often moonlights as a DJ when not on set, announced he is founding his label, 7Wallace Music on Tuesday, July 3.

Idris also announced the first act signed to 7Wallace, which takes its name from an address he once lived at in London, as French-Cameroonian artist James BKS.

Praising his new signing, the 45-year-old told Billboard: "James is a rare find. His hip-hop sensibilities transfer to the other music he makes, he's a nice person to work with and is gonna be a strong artist in the future. It's a huge move for 7Wallace, a small indie label."

James, who has worked as a producer with Diddy and Talib Kweli, releases his debut single, "Kwlele", on 13 July. The musician was inspired to explore his Cameroonian heritage after meeting his biological father, legendary Afro-jazz saxophonist Manu Dibango.

"I want people to get to know my journey," James added in a statement. "The song is the musical answer to my inner questions. Finally I can be proud of my roots and say this music is fully me."

Idris took up DJing in his youth, and in addition to playing club nights has appeared at Glastonbury and as an opening act for Madonna. He has also featured on records by acts Jay-Z, Mr Hudson and Macklemore.

The actor has released two of his own albums, the last of which was inspired by his role as TV detective John Luther and debuted in 2015.