BMI Partners with Sony Music Publishing, Spotify and Native Instruments for Masterclass and Workshop in Ghana

BMI participated in an innovative event in Accra, Ghana on January 9 in partnership with Sony Music Publishing (SMP), Spotify Africa and Native Instruments Production Software. Dubbed the Sony Music Publishing Masterclass & Workshop, the extensive program consisted of a series of in-depth discussions for artists, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals. BMI’s Executive, Creative, Anu Gantumur, conducted a BMI 101, detailing the role BMI plays in the music industry, basics of performing rights and becoming a BMI affiliate. Other speakers included Spotify Africa’s Artist & Label Partnerships manager Victor Okpala, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu, SMP’s Head of Africa A&R Wale Davies, SMP’s Head of International A&R Nasra Artan, GRAMMY-nominated producers GuiltyBeatz and DAMEXDAME, and founder of Translate NC Management and co-organizer Nikita Chauhan. Panels covered several topics such as ‘Creating a Classic,’ ‘Intro to Spotify for Songwriters,’ ‘Women in Music’ and a live production workshop.
On the experience, Gantumur commented, “People have often said that good music transcends barriers. Thus, it’s only right that the industry itself also does so. I’m incredibly proud that BMI continues to build our presence within Africa - a continent that has so much beautiful artistry to offer in many forms alongside the ever-growing Afrobeat sound. Our innovative approach to supporting the development of the global music industry infrastructure is just one of the reasons BMI stands as a well-respected pioneer. Attendees were extremely excited to have a representative be there in person, and I hope this was the first of many chances we get to host similar events.”
In addition to the Masterclass event, SMP put together a 5-day songwriting camp at Black City Studio with BMI affiliates including Ladipoe, Kalmi, Nsikak, Moliy, Ekene, Anoop De Souza, Mxrci, Moelogo, E.Noxz, Show Dem Camp, Tems, and many more.
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