Sony Music Publishing Nigeria partners with DMCE

The move, driven by a mutual objective of fostering a more robust and effective music ecosystem, arrives a year after SMP announced new operations in Lagos, Nigeria, with industry expert Godwin Tom as managing director.

SMP is one of the leading global music publishers and home to the world’s greatest songwriters, with a roster comprising top African pop stars like Wizkid, Tems, Sarkodie, Ladipoe and Lojay, among others.

“As a global business, we understand the peculiarity of the different markets SMP operates in and the importance of partners and affiliates,” Tom said. “We also believe in supporting local businesses and growing the ecosystem. This is what makes us such a successful company globally. 

“This partnership is a product of that understanding. We have a lot of respect and appreciation for the local players and businesses who have put in work to build the music industry, particularly in publishing and IP. DMCE is one of such companies, and we are thrilled to partner with them.” 

On his part, DMCE general manager Ezekiel Olayinka added: “SMP, being a renowned global music publishing company with an exceptional catalogue and unwavering dedication to creators, perfectly aligns with our mission to empower the music industry through intellectual property solutions. Our shared vision for a vibrant music ecosystem makes this collaboration a significant leap forward. By combining our expertise with SMP, we eagerly anticipate unlocking new opportunities for artists and songwriters, ultimately enriching the musical landscape for future generations.” 

In a July interview with Music Business Worldwide, veteran Nigerian rapper and SMP head of A&R for Africa Wale ‘Tec’ Davies said the company’s aspirations for Africa revolve around dedicated support and education of SMP songwriters throughout the continent. This includes initiatives such as the company’s maiden songwriting camp in West Africa, which took place in Accra, Ghana, in January as part of a vision to drive growth opportunities for creative communities across Africa. The programme spanned a wide range of activities including sessions with top songwriters, artists and producers, creative/A&R mixers, wellness activities and community outreach workshops aimed at supporting the next generation of songwriters.

“To witness so much talent from across the continent work and form relationships and create amazing music together was a gratifying experience,” Davies, who led the programme, said.