Ghana-focused music streaming platform GMX launched

Hosting a library of local genres ranging from folk to contemporary pop, GMX boasts key features such as early access to releases, behind-the-scenes content and interviews, enhanced by an AI-powered recommendation engine and social media integration for easy discovery and sharing. The platform is available on iOS and Android and offers both free and premium subscription options.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, GMX CEO Ato Tandoh noted that the DSP aims to “provide an experience that helps people connect more deeply with the music they love, while also introducing them to new sounds, artists, and parts of our history they might not have found otherwise. As we grow, we’ll continue partnering with artists, labels, and brands to bring even more exclusive content to our users.”

GMX, in cooperation with Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, has also reportedly secured partnerships to source content from national outlets and combat piracy.

Ghana’s vice president and flagbearer of the ruling NPP party in the upcoming elections Mahamudu Bawumia, also present at the event, noted that GMX embodies Ghanaian heritage while serving as a backbone for the country’s artists.

“With our music, we are building a legacy that requires tools and platforms to ensure our artists and contributors to this vibrant industry receive their due recognition, compensation, and rightful place on the global stage,” he said. “In this digital age, where the value of the global economy lies in digitalisation, it is essential for the Ghanaian music industry to leverage such tools to monetise its talents.”

Bawumia had recently shared plans for a local digital streaming platform, touting it as a first for Ghana. “We are ready to launch the first local streaming platform for Ghanaian musicians and film producers,” he said, citing the need for a more equitable alternative to foreign DSPs like Spotify, which, he argued, offer limited revenue for local creatives. He also underscored that a local DSP could “help maximise opportunities and enable creatives to access and manage their revenue.” It is unclear if Bawumia was referring to GMX at the time. 

Speaking to Music In Africa, Ghanaian media veteran Antoine Mensah says Aftown Music, which he co-founded in October 2016, is Ghana’s first DSP. Aftown is also expected to expand into Francophone Africa soon. 

Popular DSPs such as Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, and YouTube all have a presence in Ghana.