Sony Music expands African footprint with Lusafrica, Africa Nostra acquisition

Founded in 1988 by José Da Silva and now led by his daughter Élodie Da Silva, Lusafrica is best known for introducing Cape Verdean icon Cesária Évora, the “barefoot diva”, to global audiences. Évora rose to international prominence later in life, earning a Grammy, four Kora Awards, and two Victoires de la Musique, with her discography certified gold in France.

In 2000, Lusafrica launched Africa Nostra, a publishing house whose catalogue overlaps with nearly three-quarters of Lusafrica’s recorded works. Together, the two hold over 4 000 titles, with Sony Music describing them as “holding a central position in the spread of Lusophone and African music worldwide”.

“Since it was founded in 1988, Lusafrica has played a key role in spreading African, Latin and Portuguese music around the world, not least through the incredible career of Cesária Évora,” José Da Silva said. “Today’s handover marks the end of a cycle, but also the continuity of a musical heritage that is close to my heart.

“Almost 40 years after the creation of Lusafrica, I decided to hand over our label to Sony Music France, a long-standing partner with whom we share a strong history. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was an obvious one. Over time, I felt that I no longer had the energy to support Lusafrica as I would have liked. However, I’m convinced that it was the best decision: Sony Music France and Sony Music Publishing have the resources and know-how to continue this adventure, and above all, they know our catalogue and our musical identity thanks to over 20 years of collaboration.”

The acquisition follows Rob Stringer, chairman of Sony Music Group and CEO of Sony Music Entertainment, confirming the company’s expansion strategy, which includes over 60 investments and $2.5 billion spent on creative ventures and catalogues globally in the past year. Sony is expanding aggressively in high-growth territories including Africa, Latin America, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.

Sony Music France managing director Marie-Anne Robert said: “We are thrilled to welcome Lusafrica into our Sony Music family. We are committed to preserving and developing the legacy built by Lusafrica, by establishing bridges between markets and generations, for the benefit of artists and fans.

“Our expertise in developing international audiences will allow listeners worldwide to discover or rediscover this essential world music catalog. We will continue to honour José Da Silva’s vision and support the artists in reaching new heights.”

Sony Music Publishing France managing director Antoine Dathanat added: “We are extremely enthusiastic about working with Africa Nostra’s repertoire. Its editorial catalogue is rich and diverse, featuring iconic titles with an international footprint.

“These works hold tremendous potential for covers and reinterpretations, especially among the younger generation. By integrating Africa Nostra, we enhance our ability to bring these musical treasures to an international audience eager to discover or rediscover timeless classics.”

Sony Music notes that the Lusafrica and Africa Nostra catalogues have particularly strong audiences in France, the United States, and Latin America. The acquisition includes the complete discography of Cesária Évora, including classics such as Petit Pays, Sodade, and Bésame Mucho, as well as the full catalogue of Polo Montañez, whose hit Un Montón de Estrellas earned him a Latin Grammy nomination in 2003 and continues to receive global airplay.

Originally rooted in Cape Verdean music, Lusafrica later expanded its roster to include African musicians like Bonga and Boubacar Traoré, and Latin American talents including Montañez. His work has been widely covered, including by Pedro Alonso, actor from the hit series Casa de Papel.

Sony Music says the acquisition “opens new opportunities to expand their reach and resonance with fans in new markets” and reaffirms its commitment to honouring and growing the legacy of Lusafrica’s culturally rich catalogue.