Tag: Music news

Africa’s music industry experienced the highest growth globally in 2024, with revenues in Sub-Saharan Africa soaring by 22.6% and surpassing $100 million for the first time, according to the International Federation of Phonographic Industry (IFPI).

The IFPI’s Global Music Report 2025, released in London by CEO Victoria Oakley, highlighted the significant impact of streaming services in driving this growth. South Africa remains the dominant market in the region, accounting for 75% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s total revenue.

Globally, recorded music revenues reached $29.6 billion, a 4.8% increase. Subscription streaming was the primary driver, with a 9.5% rise in revenue and a 10.6% increase in subscribers, reaching 752 million worldwide. Streaming revenues exceeded $20 billion for the first time, representing 69% of total recorded music revenue.

Key findings include:

• Streaming Dominance: Subscription streaming revenues grew by 9.5%, while ad-supported streaming saw a more modest 1.2% increase.
• Physical Format Decline: Physical format revenues decreased by 3.1%, though vinyl sales continued to grow for the 18th consecutive year, rising by 4.6%.
• Performance Rights Growth: Performance rights revenues increased by 5.9%, reaching $2.9 billion.
  Regional Growth: Every region experienced revenue growth. The Middle East & North Africa (MENA) led with a 22.8% increase, followed closely by Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America (22.5%).
• Major Market Performance: The US, the world’s largest market, saw a 2.2% increase. Europe remained the second-largest region, with growth in the UK, France, and Germany. Asia, the third-largest region, saw a 1.3% increase, impacted by a decline in physical format sales. China experienced a 9.6% increase.
• Latin America’s Surge: Latin America’s strong 22.5% growth was fueled by streaming, which accounted for 87.8% of the region’s revenues. Brazil was the fastest-growing top ten market, with a 21.7% increase.
  MENA’s Streaming Focus: The MENA region’s 22.8% growth was almost entirely driven by streaming, which represented 99.5% of its total revenue.

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Quincy Jones, the iconic music producer celebrated for his work with artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at the age of 91.

Jones’ groundbreaking career spanned over seven decades, earning him 28 Grammy Awards and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. His production of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Jones was a visionary entrepreneur, founding a successful television and film production company. His influence extended to various creative fields, including film scoring and television production.

Jones’ legacy as a groundbreaking artist and cultural icon will continue to inspire generations to come.

Khweva Theatre Group is set to revolutionize the theater industry with their latest production, “Mpaka,” by introducing Kenya’s first-ever rotating stage. The highly anticipated musical, running from November 1st to 3rd at Jain Bhavan in Loresho, promises an immersive theatrical experience, setting a new standard in the country’s performing arts scene.
Incorporating this cutting-edge technology is set to advance the theater sector in Kenya by allowing seamless transitions between scenes, enhancing both the visual and emotional storytelling of “Mpaka.”
Speaking ahead of the premiere, Francis Karanja, the Managing Director of the Khweva Theatre Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the show, stating, “While we’ve produced numerous plays, ‘Mpaka’ stands out as a game-changer. I’m thrilled to witness the impact of integrating advanced technology into our theater landscape, as this will undoubtedly contribute to the evolution of the sector.”
He added, “‘Mpaka’ is not just a musical; it is a reflection of how Kenyan theater is keeping pace with global trends, pushing the boundaries of creativity and production. Featuring a talented cast, live music, and now, groundbreaking stage design, ‘Mpaka’ is set to be the must-see event of the year.”
“Mpaka,” the 10th production by Khweva this year, tells the story of two contrasting worlds, the overworld and the underworld, that are in a perpetual cycle of war. Our story begins when Zawadi, a child of authority, curiously wanders across the border. This leads her down an unexpected path of discovery but inevitably sets off a series of dire consequences. The musical is directed by Vicky Maimba, which marks her debut as a creative director. Previously, Maimba served as assistant director for Khweva’s production, “Kiri,” held last year. The play also features a talented cast featuring some renowned figures in the performing arts scene such as Riki, one of six of Wanavokali, Matthew Ngotho, Emma Cheruto, a famous Kenyan artist.
About Khweva
Khweva is a creative hub pulling together artists of diverse talents with the aim of spreading awareness on societal issues, as well as general entertainment, through the performing arts and other productions. We focus on providing practical skilling and technical assistance to artists and providing world-class plays, musicals, short films, and other artistic performances. Our platform offers a nurturing environment where creativity thrives, enabling artists to hone their craft in various disciplines, from theater to film, while making a meaningful impact.
For more information on Khweva, please contact:
0797433009

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