Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA)

The Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA) is the main body representing the South African recording industry. Originally called the Association of South African Music Industry (ASAMI), the name RISA was adopted in 2000 in recognition of the organisation’s role in ensuring the South African recording industry has developed in the strongest on the African continent and one respected worldwide. Its mission is to promote the value of recorded music, safeguard the rights of record producers and expand the commercial uses of recorded music. RISA’s main focus of work is three-fold.

The organization has over the past two decade staged South Africa’s premiere music awards event, the annual South African Music Awards (SAMAs). RISA is also responsible for overseeing and funding the national anti-piracy enforcement unit. In 2007 RISA also established the South African Music Performance Rights Association.

At its Joburg office, RISA’s daily work also includes many key aspects of the industry, among them the certification of sales achievements (gold for 20 000 and platinum for 40 000), representing the industry internationally, providing information and research, establishing and applying ethics and standards, and lobbying for key issues affecting the industry. RISA is a member of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents the recording industry worldwide.