Believe-owned DIY distribution platform TuneCore has launched operations in Africa.
Johannesburg-based Jade Leaf has been hired as Head of TuneCore for Southern Africa and will share responsibility for key countries in East Africa with Lagos-based Chioma Onuchukwu, who has been hired as Head of TuneCore for West Africa.
Both Leaf and Onuchukwu will report to Faryal Khan-Thompson, Vice President, International, TuneCore.
TuneCore says that it saw an increase in music releases globally in 2020, with the likes of Kofi Mole from Ghana and Small Doctor in Nigeria, Spoegwolf in South Africa, Mpho Sebina in Botswana and Fena Gitu in Kenya amongst African artists using the service.
In December, the company confirmed that it has surpassed the milestone of paying $2 billion in total to independent artists since it was founded 15 years ago.
TuneCore expanded into India as well as Russia and Brazil last year and this year added LATAM, Southeast Asia and now Africa.
Based in Nigeria, Onuchukwu will oversee countries in West Africa including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia. She will also look after Tanzania and Ethiopia in East Africa.
Leaf’s territory encompasses Southern Africa, including South Africa, where she will be based, as well as Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Lesotho.
Leaf will also manage TuneCore operations in East African countries Kenya and Uganda.
Before joining TuneCore, Onuchukwu was Marketing Manager at Nigeria-based music streaming platform uduX. There, she worked directly with popular African artists such as Davido, Yemi Alade, Patoranking, Kizz Daniel and more.
Previously, Leaf worked at Africa’s largest Pay TV operator Multichoice as the Marketing Manager for Youth & Music Channels, where she led brand re-imaging and marketing efforts for Music TV giant Channel O.
Before that, she worked at Sony Music Entertainment Africa, focusing on African artists and content, as well as numerous marketing campaigns & projects for local and international artists.
“I am elated to be joining a renowned, independent music distribution powerhouse.”
Chioma Onuchukwu
Onuchukwu said: “I am elated to be joining a renowned, independent music distribution powerhouse, especially in an incredible era for music creators in Africa at a time when we are gaining global recognition and increasing momentum.
“I look forward to collaborating with and supporting local artists.”
“I am incredibly excited to join the team in a time where the global conversation is around independence and ownership.”
Jade Leaf
Leaf added: “I am incredibly excited to join the team in a time where the global conversation is around independence and ownership.
“TuneCore opens up a world of potential for independent artists at every level of their careers.
“Africa is home to a diverse range of artists who are seeking a reliable distribution service who understands their local needs and can ultimately give them the opportunity to turn their art into commercial success.”
“By hiring Jade and Chioma to lead our efforts, TuneCore is well positioned to maximize opportunities for independent artists across the continent.”
Faryal Khan-Thompson, TuneCore
Khan-Thompson said: “Africa is an extremely exciting music market with a lot of potential for growth.
“By hiring Jade and Chioma to lead our efforts, TuneCore is well positioned to maximize opportunities for independent artists across the continent.
“Both Chioma and Jade bring a wealth of experience and genuine interest in helping artists make their dreams come true. I couldn’t be more thrilled to have two incredible women representing the TuneCore brand in the continent”
