Marisa Monte is going global…

The 53-year-old Brazilian star, the elegant singer, songwriter, producer and instrumentalist known for her distinctive vocals and ability to span multiple genres of Brazilian music, has signed a global administration agreement with Universal Music Publishing Group.

The deal encompasses Monte’s impressive catalog of songs on Monte Songs, spanning an almost four-decade career, including hits like “Ainda Bem,” “Depois,” “Beija Eu,” “Amor I Love You,” “Não Vá Embora,” “Já Sei Namorar,” “Velha Infância,” “Passe em Casa” and “Não é Fácil.”

Long regarded as one of Brazil’s leading female acts, Monte is also a much-admired artist globally who has worked with the likes of David Byrne, Phillip Glass, Arnaldo Antunes and Carlinhos Brown. The latter once described her voice as “one of the most perfect in the world. It’s like the wind: soft, gentle and caressing, but it messes with everything in its path.”

Monte’s deal with Universal comes at a time when the company is led by women, a fact that she celebrated.

“I am very happy for this partnership between my catalog as a composer and a company with a female soul. Universal Music Publishing is globally chaired by a woman. UMPG Latin is led by a strong, female president who is surrounded by a capable and talented team,” said Monte in a statement. “Care, delicacy, empathy and all the feminine intelligence at the service of music. Long live the balance and the union of forces!”

Alexandra Lioutikoff, President Latin America and US Latin for UMPG, said: “Marisa Monte is […] a songwriter, artist and producer whose songs are celebrated by fans of all ages, making her a true icon in art and culture. We’re very proud to welcome her to our family and our team is eager to deliver creative opportunities to spread her music all over the world, as she deserves.”