What are the challenges in taking South African music digital?

Synopsis

There’s no doubt that we are in the golden age of African music. From the enthralling croons of west Africa’s Afrobeats to the wavy jazz tunes in the south, the industry is experiencing an unprecedented era of recognition around the world. The genius of African musicians is amplified thanks to technology, through digital platforms like Spotify or Boomplay, and even social media apps springboarding local artists into global fame. Revenues from streaming music in Africa alone is set to generate close to US$500M by 2025, according to the World Bank. Some of the most streamed artists and songs hail from South Africa, particularly in the rising Amapiano genre. But despite the seeming success, South African artists faced a hard time during the pandemic, and continue to face numerous challenges. Can music platforms and policy makers work together to ensure a fairer system for creatives?

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Guests

Aidin Caye is a DJ and producer based in Johannesburg. His film, The State of the Arts, produced at the peak of pandemic lockdowns in South Africa, documented the dire experiences of musicians and other industry creatives.

Gwen Ansell is a researcher with the Gordon Institute of Business Science and was a one-time visiting professor at the Center for Jazz Studies, Columbia University. Ansell is a prolific journalist and media trainer, and is the author of several books, including Soweto Blues.

Andre Le Roux is the Managing Director of IKS Cultural Consulting. He formerly led the South African Musician Rights Organisation (SAMRO) Foundation. He has been a prominent voice in the industry, advocating for better fee collection systems and for better pay for musicians.