Ano Shumba

Nigerian Afrobeats artist, Joeboy, has released his single ‘Taxi Driver’ ahaed of his third studio album Viva Lavida set for release on 28 March.

The Zimbabwe Musicians Union (ZIMU) has strongly opposed the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA)’s recent decision to impose a $150 licensing fee on artists performing cover songs. ZIMU argues that the directive contradicts international industry standards and Zimbabwean copyright law, placing an unfair financial burden on musicians.

The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) has warned Kenyans against remitting royalties to the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), stating that the organisation lacks the legal mandate to collect such payments.

Urban Music Awards (UMA) is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a major international expansion, launching in more than 20 countries, with South Africa selected as the first to host the prestigious event.

The South African arts industry is mourning the passing of former National Arts Council (NAC) of South Africa CEO, Rosemary Mangope, who died on 14 April at the age of 65, following a battle with cancer.

Preparations for the Intra-African Trade Fair 2025 (IATF2025) are progressing smoothly, with organisers confirming that the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme will be one of the event’s key highlights.

The eSwatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) is making significant strides in finalising licensing agreements with broadcasters ahead of the commencement of royalty collection on 1 April 2025.

Zimbabwean songstress Feli Nandi continues to charm fans with her latest release, ‘Muranda’. The title, which means “servant” in Shona, sets the tone for a song soaked in themes of love and devotion. In this heartfelt ballad, Feli expresses her willingness to surrender to love, as reflected in the moving lyrics “ndiite muranda wako”, which translates to “make me your servant.”

A Nairobi Magistrates’ Court has issued a temporary order freezing and restricting the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) revenue collection account held at a local bank.

Recorded music revenues in Sub-Saharan Africa grew by 22.6% in 2024, surpassing US$100 million for the first time and reaching US$110 million, according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the organisation representing the global recording industry.