TuneCore report: Streaming surges 91% in West and East Africa

TuneCore Accelerator helps independent artists expand their fan base, offering promotional programmes that focus on driving music discovery, building audiences, and enhancing fan engagement. On the continent, the company has supported artists from various genres, such as Nathaniel Bassey from Nigeria, Okello Max from Kenya and Spoegwolf from South Africa.

According to the report, in the first half of 2024, TuneCore Accelerator facilitated over 3 billion track discoveries, leading to nearly 10 billion new streams. TuneCore claims that over 250 000 independent artists have now signed up to its accelerator, with about 85 000 tracks chosen for various audience-development programmes.

Those in the early ‘Start’ and ‘Amplify’ segments of the programme saw earnings increase fivefold and threefold, respectively, compared to last year. 

The report also notes positive results for artists’ back catalogues. Tracks included in the programme saw an average increase of 338% in streams.

“With the constant evolution of the industry, independent artists, especially early-career musicians, need more than just distribution,” TuneCore CEO Andreea Gleeson said. “They require access to marketing programmes that can help their music reach the right audiences. TuneCore Accelerator gives artists unparalleled access to promotional opportunities that enhance streaming growth, support fanbase expansion, and ultimately increase earnings.”

“Our focus as TuneCore is establishing ourselves as a true artist development platform,” TuneCore head of Africa Andile Mbete told Music In Africa. “We aim to help our artists earn more by ensuring that they find their audience and deliver the best music they can through our various tools and resources like TuneCore Accelerator.

“From an African perspective, we have worked hard to create as many platforms as possible for our artists through our digital and social channels and the creation of bespoke events and development programmes like creator camps, masterclasses, and listening sessions for the local media industry and fans.”

Meanwhile, in June, TuneCore revealed that its artists had earned over $4bn since 2006, a milestone it says cements its position as the “premier platform for independent artists looking to build their careers.”