The leading development partner for self-releasing artists TuneCore, owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies, has named Andile Mbete as Head of TuneCore, Southern Africa. Mbete will report to Faryal Khan-Thompson, Vice President, International, TuneCore.
Khan-Thompson commented, “As TuneCore continues to expand around the world, we’re committed to ensuring that our artists have localized teams who understand the diverse, unique landscape of each regional music market. Africa is one of the fastest growing music markets in the world, and with the help of Andile’s industry knowledge and expertise, we’re thrilled to be able to more effectively support African artists and highlight the incredible talent coming from the region.”
As Head of TuneCore, Southern Africa, Mbete, based in Johannesburg, will focus on managing and building the company’s artist roster in the region and supporting local artists through partnership opportunities and marketing initiatives.
Mbete says, “It is a truly exciting time to be in the music industry and to be a part of a company like TuneCore that firmly believes in empowering self-releasing musicians to take full control of their music and careers. As the world takes greater notice of the talents and sounds from the African continent, I am excited to have a hand in contributing to the growth and expansion of Africa’s art and cultural heritage through music.”
Previously, Mbete worked as International Label Manager for Sony Music’s Columbia and Epic Records, where he managed a team responsible for the ideation and implementation of marketing and content strategies for both local and international artists. In addition to his music industry experience, Mbete brings a wealth of brand marketing and consumer research knowledge from his roles as Digital Brand Manager at South African retailer Markham 1873, and Content Director at creative advertising agency Black River FC.
Mbete’s appointment is the latest of TuneCore’s recent expansion efforts across Africa, including the company’s partnership with African music festival Afrochella for the “Rising Star DJ Challenge,” a competition where one talented independent DJ from the continent will win the opportunity to grace the stage at next week’s festival in Ghana. After reviewing more than one hundred entries and tallying votes from music lovers and DJ fans around the world, TuneCore and Afrochella selected the following top three DJs to compete during the final contest round, next Tuesday, December 27th at the Afrochella Music Museum at BBNZ:
- DJ Damifresh: Representing Nigeria, Damifresh is an up and coming DJ from Lagos.
- DJ Wendy Rose: A DJ and singer who has rich roots from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- Ethan Thomas: Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Ethan is a DJ and producer with origins in Ghana.
For more information on how to attend the Rising Star DJ challenge at the Afrochella Music Museum, please visit https://afrochella.com/risingtalent.
