MZANSI musicians are set to benefit from a massive new deal.
Artists will get a chance to have bigger global opportunities now that Downtown Music Publishing Africa has officially become part of Virgin Music Group.
Downtown Music Publishing Africa operates under Downtown Music Holdings, meaning the African arm now forms part of the wider Virgin Music Group structure, a company based in Los Angeles, USA.
Virgin Music Group has signed Hollywood artists such as David Bowie, Janet Jackson, George Michael and The Spice Girls.
In a statement released to make the announcement, they said for the African division, the transition is set to strengthen its mission of helping local music travel globally and also ensure that artists will be paid properly.
This means top artists signed to Downtown Music Publishing Africa, such as Cassper Nyovest, KO, Puleng March and Brenda Mtambo, as well as rising stars like Lwah Ndlunkulu and Lucas Raps, will benefit from increased global exposure.
As part of the transition, former Downtown CEO Pieter van Rijn has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Virgin Music Group.
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He will oversee global operations, technology and strategic integration across the combined businesses.
Pieter said the collaboration strengthens the global reach available to independent creators.
"This combination enhances the choice, service and global reach available to the independent community. I'm grateful to Justin and Andrew for their vision in building Downtown, and to Nat and JT for their trust as we enter this next chapter. Our focus is clear - strengthen what makes both companies special and deliver even greater value to the entrepreneurs we serve," he said.
Virgin Music Group co-CEO Nat Pastor said they have faith in Pieter and know he will drive the project to success.
"Pieter's appointment signals our intent to bring these businesses together thoughtfully and strategically. This is about making both Virgin Music Group and Downtown even better - preserving their distinct strengths while increasing the investment, technology and global resources available to independent entrepreneurs. Pieter's experience and leadership make him the right person to help guide us forward," Nat said.
Downtown founder Justin Kalifowitz is stepping away from the company he established nearly two decades ago, while former chairman Andrew Bergman will transition into a senior advisory role.
