TuneCore names Andile Mbete as head of Southern Africa operations

The announcement forms part of efforts by the company to expand its imprint on the continent while growing its status as a leading development partner for self-releasing artists.

Mbete, who is based in Johannesburg, will focus on managing and building the company’s artist roster in the region and supporting local artists through partnership opportunities and marketing initiatives.

He will report to Faryal Khan-Thompson, who currently serves as vice-president, international at TuneCore.

“As TuneCore continues to expand around the world, we’re committed to ensuring that our artists have localised teams who understand the diverse, unique landscape of each regional music market,” Khan-Thompson said. “Africa is one of the fastest growing music markets in the world, and with the help of Andile’s industry knowledge and expertise, we’re thrilled to be able to more effectively support African artists and highlight the incredible talent coming from the region.”

Mbete said: “It is a truly exciting time to be in the music industry and to be a part of a company like TuneCore that firmly believes in empowering self-releasing musicians to take full control of their music and careers. As the world takes greater notice of the talents and sounds from the African continent, I am excited to have a hand in contributing to the growth and expansion of Africa’s art and cultural heritage through music.”

Mbete previously worked as an international label manager for Sony Music’s Columbia and Epic Records, where he managed a team responsible for the ideation and implementation of marketing and content strategies for both local and international artists. In addition to his music industry experience, he brings a wealth of brand marketing and consumer research knowledge from his roles as a digital brand manager at South African retailer Markham 1873, and content director at creative advertising agency Black River FC.

Meanwhile, TuneCore recently partnered with African music festival Afrochella on the Rising Star DJ Challenge, a competition where one talented independent DJ from the continent will win the opportunity to grace the stage at next week’s festival in Ghana. After reviewing more than 100 entries and tallying votes from music lovers and DJ fans around the world, TuneCore and Afrochella selected DJ Damifresh (Nigeria), DJ Wendy Rose (DRC) and Ethan Thomas (US/Ghana) to compete during the final contest round the Afrochella Music Museum in Accra on 27 December.