Ano Shumba

Universal Music Group (UMG) has formally rejected an unsolicited takeover proposal from billionaire investor Bill Ackman and his investment firm, Pershing Square Capital Management, saying the offer significantly undervalued the company and was not in the interests of its stakeholders.

The Ndlovu Youth Choir will return to Johannesburg in July for a series of performances at Montecasino’s Teatro before making its debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland later this year.

The South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) has launched a campaign encouraging members to update their personal information, citing concerns that outdated records could prevent thousands of members from accessing important communications and retirement benefits.

Warner Music Group has agreed to acquire AI attribution company Sureel AI, a move aimed at strengthening its ability to track and manage the use of music and other intellectual property in artificial intelligence systems.

South African Afro-house artist and producer Prince Kaybee has signed with international electronic music label PLAYY. Records and is set to release a new single, ‘Heno Babayo’, on 26 June.

The nominees for this year’s entertainment and music awards were announced online on 18 June, with artists, media personalities and industry professionals from across Africa recognised in a wide range of categories.

Nigerian Afrobeats artist Asake performed songs from his latest album, M$NEY, live for the first time during a special concert at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 21 June.

A report commissioned by the BPI has found that rightsholders across the creative industries had entered into 274 commercial agreements related to artificial intelligence (AI) by early 2026, highlighting the growing role of AI licensing in the sector.

South African singer Zee Nxumalo has been included in the latest Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list, recognising her growing influence in the music and entertainment industries.

South African amapiano star Kabza De Small lead the nominations for the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMAs), with nominees across 25 categories announced online on 25 June ahead of the awards ceremony at the Sun City Superbowl in North West Province on 15 August.