There’s no doubt that we are in the golden age of African music: The industry is experiencing an unprecedented era of recognition around the world. 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?
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.
More about Aidin: https://aidincaye.com
Watch State of the Arts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nXAJnKOj64
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.
Read Ansell’s blog https://sisgwenjazz.wordpress.com.
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.
Further readings for those who want to learn more
Report “Taking Music Online in South Africa”: https://iksafrica.com/reports/Digital-Futures-Two-Taking-Music-Online-in-South-Africa.pdf
Report “Live Streaming in South Africa”: https://iksafrica.com/reports/Digital-Futures-online.pdf
Why African Artists Are Not Enjoying the Full Benefits of Streaming Services: https://techcabal.com/2021/03/26/data-why-african-artistes-are-not-enjoying-the-full-benefits-of-streaming-services/
AI Music generation - Coming for a Gig Near You? https://sisgwenjazz.wordpress.com/2023/03/28/ai-music-generation-coming-for-a-gig-near-you/
The Kiffness: https://www.thekiffness.com