Nigerian Afropop singer Ayra Starr has released a new single titled ‘Where Do We Go’, marking her first release of the year. The track, issued through Mavin Records, was produced by ILY​A and blends Afropop rhythms with upbeat percussion and bass-driven instrumentation. The song explores themes surrounding romantic relationships, with Ayra Starr delivering vocals over an up-tempo production. ‘Where Do We Go’ follows the release of ‘Who’s Dat Girl’, a collaboration with Nigerian artist Rema that was released in October last year. Ayra Starr, who has received two nominations at the Grammy Awards and multiple honours at the MOBO Awards, has seen significant global growth in recent years. Her music catalogue has accumulated more than seven billion streams across platforms and over one billion views on YouTube. Among her widely recognised releases is Rush, which has surpassed 500 million streams on Spotify. The milestone made her the first African female artist to have two songs exceed 500 million streams on the platform. She also received a nomination in the Best African Music Performance category at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards for the single Gimme Dat featuring Wizkid. In the same period, she won two MOBO Awards and was named Best African Music Act, becoming the first female artist in 16 years to win the category. She also received the Best International Act award at the BET Awards..

Apple Music has named Nigerian Afrobeats artist Shoday as the latest cover star of its Africa Rising programme, highlighting emerging artists from across the continent. The announcement places the singer on the cover of the Africa Rising playlist, a platform created by Apple Music to promote developing African talent to global audiences. Shoday, who hails from Ogun State and was raised in Lagos, has gained attention in Nigeria’s music scene through singles such as ‘Dey 4 You’ and ‘Caution’. The latter helped introduce the artist to a wider audience after appearing on streaming charts, including Apple Music’s Top 100 in Nigeria and the Shazam charts. “It’s an honour being the cover star of Africa Rising, I feel blessed,” Shoday said. “A big thank you to everyone supporting my music, and a big thank you to the Apple Music team for seeing me fit to cover the prestigious Africa Rising playlist.” The recognition comes shortly after the release of his debut album, Hybrid, which arrived earlier this month. The project combines street-influenced Afrobeats with melodic and introspective elements. The album follows a series of recent releases that gained traction on streaming platforms, including ‘Nakupenda’ and ‘Hey Jago’. His January 2026 single ‘Paparazzi’, featuring FOLA, reached number one on Apple Music’s Lagos chart and ranked highly on the Apple Music Nigeria Top Songs chart. Another track, ‘Casablanca’ featuring Ayo Maff, was included in Apple Music’s Best Songs of 2024 list. Shoday’s recent activities have also included a debut tour in the United Kingdom in 2025, with performances in London, Manchester and Birmingham. As part of the Africa Rising feature, the artist will appear on the playlist and in an episode of Africa Now Radio hosted by Nandi Madida, where he discusses his musical journey and creative development.

South African amapiano producer and DJ Stokie has released a new single titled ‘Amazwe’, featuring Zain SA, DJ Nana and Neo Soul. The track brings together several South African artists in a collaboration that blends vocal performances with amapiano production. The title ‘Amazwe’, which translates to “nations”, reflects themes of identity, gratitude and life experiences. Musically, the single combines soulful vocals with the percussive rhythms commonly associated with amapiano, a genre that originated in South Africa and has gained international recognition in recent years. The song is led by vocal contributions from Zain SA, while DJ Nana and Neo Soul contribute to the production. DJ Stokie, known for his work within the amapiano scene, has previously collaborated with a range of artists in the genre. His releases have often combined dance-oriented rhythms with melodic and vocal elements. ‘Amazwe’ has been released on major digital streaming platforms and is the latest addition to DJ Stokie’s catalogue of amapiano recordings. The single follows his previous projects, including the album Shandu Ka Ndaba.

British music rights management organisation PRS for Music has confirmed that its chief executive, Andrea Czapary Martin, will step down from her role at the end of 2026. The organisation announced on 5 March that the decision was made in agreement with the PRS Members’ Council to allow for an orderly leadership transition and ensure continuity for the society and its members. PRS for Music represents the rights of more than 180 000 songwriters, composers and music publishers. Czapary Martin joined PRS for Music in June 2019. Before taking the role, she held senior leadership positions across several data-driven and subscription-based organisations. Her previous roles included serving as president and CEO of three international business units at Reader’s Digest Association, managing director of data services at Royal Mail in the United Kingdom, and President of ADT Canada. During her tenure at PRS for Music, Czapary Martin oversaw the organisation through the COVID-19 pandemic, including the introduction of an Emergency Relief Fund designed to provide financial support to members during lockdown periods. The society also relocated its headquarters to a new office in London Bridge during this period. In 2020, PRS for Music introduced a five-year strategic plan aimed at increasing royalty distributions to £1 billion by 2026, reducing its cost-to-income ratio to below 10 per cent and expanding innovation through technology, data systems and partnerships. The organisation reported that it paid out £1.02 billion (about $1.3 billion) in royalties to songwriters, composers and publishers in 2024, representing an 8.1 per cent year-on-year increase. According to PRS for Music, many of the objectives in the five-year plan were achieved within three years. Commenting on her planned departure, Czapary Martin said: “I am immensely proud of everything PRS for Music has achieved, not least the doubling of revenues and distributions over the last 10 years. These ground-breaking financial results were possible due to the culture of innovation and agility now embedded in everything we do.” She added: “My commitment remains to delivering the best possible outcomes for the songwriters, composers and publishers we have the privilege to represent, and to ensuring a smooth transition to the next phase of leadership.” PRS Members’ Council chair Julian Nott, said: “Andrea’s commitment to the company has never wavered, and that spirit will undoubtedly continue until her departure. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to this organisation and its members.”

American singer, songwriter and producer Charlie Puth has joined artificial intelligence music platform Moises as chief music officer, the company has announced. In the newly created role, Puth will contribute to the company’s creative and product direction, providing input on tools designed for everyday use by musicians. The platform focuses on AI-powered features that allow users to isolate vocals and instruments, detect chords and song structures, and experiment with arrangements during music production and practice. Puth said he had used the platform during his own creative process prior to joining the company. “I’ve been using Moises in my own creative process for years, as have many of my friends,” he said. “It opens up possibilities that used to take hours or expensive studio setups, whether that’s isolating vocals to study technique or experimenting with arrangements in real time. AI, when done right, isn’t here to replace musicians. It’s here to help artists learn, explore, and bring their ideas to life.” According to the company, Puth will collaborate on the development of artist-focused features and help ensure that the platform reflects the workflows used by musicians in practice and production. Geraldo Ramos, chief executive officer of Moises, said the company views artificial intelligence as a tool intended to support creative work rather than replace it. “Musicianship has always evolved alongside technology, and AI represents the next chapter in that story,” Ramos said. “But we believe the future of music creation isn’t about AI generating songs for you. It’s about AI amplifying what makes human creativity irreplaceable: intuition, emotion, and artistic vision. AI should be a brush in the artist’s hand, not a paint-by-numbers kit.” To mark the partnership, Puth and Moises have launched a global remix competition linked to the Super Bowl, where the artist performed the national anthem earlier this year. The initiative, called the Moises Jam Session, invites musicians to remix or cover Puth’s single “Best Yourself Up,” from his forthcoming album Whatever’s Clever! scheduled for release on 27 March. Participants can access the track’s individual stems through the Moises application, including isolated vocals and instrumentals. Puth will select the winning remix and cover versions. Winners and finalists will share $100 000 in cash and prizes, signed merchandise, and a backstage meet-and-greet at Puth’s performance at Madison Square Garden on 29 May. Moises, which uses AI-powered tools to support music learning, rehearsal and production, has gained international recognition. The application was named Apple iPad App of the Year 2024 and was shortlisted as a finalist for the Apple Design Awards 2025. The platform reports more than 70 million users worldwide and is available in 33 languages. Its development team includes engineers and scientists with experience at companies such as Spotify, Pandora and TikTok.

By Siphokazi Ndlovu and Sisi Nkabinde South African maskandi music continues to gain momentum, attracting both long-time followers and a younger generation of listeners. Since November 2025, a number of tracks have performed strongly across streaming platforms and social media, highlighting the genre’s growing reach and renewed visibility in the contemporary music landscape. While new musical styles continue to emerge, maskandi has experienced a notable resurgence, driven by established performers as well as a new wave of artists. The following selection highlights some of the tracks that have drawn attention since late 2025, reflecting the storytelling, guitar-driven sound and cultural identity associated with the genre. The list will be updated throughout the year to include the latest releases. 'Umaqondana' by Feza Feza opens the list with a track that combines emotive lyrics with intricate guitar arrangements. The song’s steady rhythm and expressive vocal delivery have contributed to its growing popularity among listeners. Since late 2025, the track has continued to gain traction across streaming platforms. 'Izintaba Zokhahlamba' by Mphathiwohlelo MC, Shenge Wasehlalankosi and Mjolisi  This collaboration brings together traditional maskandi elements with a contemporary approach. The combination of vocal interplay and layered guitar melodies creates a rich soundscape. The track has resonated with both radio audiences and digital listeners. 'Njengamajuba' by Skweletu Skweletu’s lyrical style and detailed guitar work are central to this release. The track balances the emotional depth associated with maskandi with a polished modern production style, helping it appeal to a broader audience. 'Umanikanikana' by Khuzani Khuzani delivers energetic vocals and lively guitar riffs in this upbeat track. The song’s narrative themes and rhythm have contributed to its increasing popularity since its release, reflecting the continued relevance of maskandi in today’s music scene. 'IVALENTINE' by Skhanga and Shenge Wasehlalankosi 'IVALENTINE' combines classic Maskandi instrumentation with contemporary production. The collaboration between Skhanga and Shenge Wasehlalankosi has attracted significant attention on streaming platforms, demonstrating the genre’s ability to adapt while maintaining its core musical identity. 'Ukhethe Mina' by Ntencane Ntencane presents a song characterised by expressive vocals and melodic guitar lines. The track has resonated with listeners and reinforces the artist’s growing reputation within the modern maskandi movement. 'Dubai' by Mthandeni and MaWhoo Mthandeni collaborates with MaWhoo on this high-energy release that blends traditional maskandi rhythms with modern influences. The track achieved notable streaming success shortly after its release, reaching one million streams within 24 hours. 'ISAZOCHOMELANA' by Inkos’yamagcokana and Boohle This collaboration with Boohle offers a smooth and soulful interpretation of maskandi. Boohle’s vocal performance, combined with the song’s memorable instrumentation, has contributed to its strong reception among listeners. 'Lona Ngowami' by Mjolisi Mjolisi continues to build momentum with this emotionally driven track. The song highlights his distinctive guitar style and narrative songwriting, earning attention across streaming playlists. 'STOP and GO' by uMnotho and JIKIJIKI uMnotho and JIKIJIKI explore a fusion of maskandi roots with contemporary sounds in this release. “STOP and GO” reflects the emergence of new voices within the genre while remaining connected to its cultural foundations.

Applications are now open for artists seeking to perform at the 2026 edition of Visa For Music, scheduled to take place in Rabat from 18 to 21 November. The annual event brings together artists and music professionals for a series of live showcases, networking activities and industry discussions. Organisers are inviting musical groups to apply to perform a 40-minute live set during the festival. Eligibility criteria for artists Applicants must meet the following requirements: Present a 40-minute live performance within one of the following categories: Global folk and fusion Contemporary and urban music Electronic music (DJ and VJ) All members of the group must be over 18 years old. The group must have been active for at least one year and have prior stage experience. Applications must include details of concerts performed in the past year and those scheduled for 2026. Performances must consist of original music delivered live. Organisers also note that: Groups that applied previously but were not selected may apply again. Artists who performed at the festival more than three years ago may reapply, provided they present a new project or group. Participation conditions Selected artists will receive logistical support from the festival, including: Stage setup and necessary equipment for the showcase (excluding specialised instruments such as guitars, basses, unique percussion instruments or grand pianos). Airport transfers and accommodation for up to six group members for one to three nights, depending on their country of residence. A per diem of 500 Moroccan dirhams (about $50) per person on the day of the showcase, capped at 3 000 MAD per group. Artist passes granting group members and their manager access to all festival activities. Promotional support through the festival’s communication channels. However, organisers state that artist fees, travel costs and visa expenses will not be covered. Application requirements Applicants must complete the official form and submit the following materials: A biography of up to 200 words. Group composition, including full names of members and instruments played. Internet links, including two live performance videos. Discography and a list of past and planned concert dates for 2026. Technical rider, including backline and stage plot. Three high-resolution photographs. A press kit. Deadline and additional information Application deadline: 27 March 2026 at 23:00 (GMT+1). Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Organisers advise applicants to assess the financial requirements for participating before submitting an application. Further information can be obtained by contacting the organisers via email at showcase@anya.africa. Disclaimer: Opportunities published on this platform are provided by external organisers. While we aim to share accurate and current calls, Music In Africa is not responsible for the organisation, management or delivery of any related events or programmes.

Applications are open for composers and conductors seeking to participate in the 2026 edition of the Sofia Art and Music Festival (SAMF), scheduled to take place from 29 June to 13 July 2026 in Sofia, Bulgaria. The two-week orchestral programme is organised by Global Arts United in partnership with the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra. The initiative is designed for composers and conductors who wish to develop orchestral works through rehearsals and a public performance. Selected composers will work directly with the orchestra and conductor during the festival period. The programme culminates in a public concert at the Bulgaria Hall. Programme overview Participants selected for the orchestral programme will receive: One full orchestral rehearsal. One dress rehearsal. A public premiere performance of their work. Professional audio and video documentation of the performance. Compositions submitted for the programme may be up to 10 minutes in duration. Composer categories Applicants may submit works in the following categories: Symphony orchestra. Concerto, with optional soloists including piano, cello, violin or clarinet. Other instruments may be considered. Maximum orchestral instrumentation: Woodwinds: 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons. Brass: 4 horns, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones, 1 tuba. Percussion: timpani and three percussion parts. Additional instruments: piano (or celesta), harp and strings. Programme fee The participation fee for composers is €4 395 (about $5 100). The fee covers: Accommodation with breakfast. Rehearsals and lessons. Lectures and masterclasses. Cultural activities during the festival. A concert performance of the selected work. Audio and video documentation. Scholarships Merit-based and need-based scholarships of up to €1 500 are available to selected participants. Application requirements Applicants must submit the following materials: Personal information and curriculum vitae details. One large-ensemble score (for eight or more players). MIDI audio is optional. One additional score. Two references. A public link to portfolio materials. Deadlines Application deadline: 15 March 2026. Final scores due: 15 May 2026. Final orchestral parts due: 30 May 2026. Applicants will be notified of the outcome within seven to ten business days after submission View the original call here.

Organisers of the Sauti za Busara festival have opened applications for artists to perform at the event’s 24th edition, scheduled to take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar from 11 to 14 March 2027. The annual festival focuses on showcasing diverse music connected to Africa and its diaspora. According to organisers, the final line-up of performers will be announced in October 2026. Application priorities Artists selected for the programme are generally chosen based on several criteria, including: Music with a strong cultural identity linked to Africa. Women artists or groups led by women. Young, new and emerging talent. Music that carries positive and socially relevant messages. Performances delivered entirely live. Application requirements Applicants are required to submit the following materials through the official application form: Links to recent live performance videos (maximum of two clips; only online links accepted). Latest audio releases in MP3 format (maximum of two tracks). Two high-resolution promotional photographs. Stage plan and technical rider. Optional: a link to the artist’s profile on the Music In Africa website. Organisers encourage artists to create or update their profile on the Music In Africa platform, which functions as an electronic press kit and may support visibility for international bookings. Deadline and selection process Application deadline: Midnight (EAT) on 30 June 2026. Selection process: The festival’s selection committee will meet in July 2026 to finalise the programme. Notification: Applicants will be informed of the outcome before September 2026. Incomplete submissions or applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Support for selected artists Artists selected to perform will receive support from the festival, which includes: A performance fee. Per-diems for meals and incidental expenses. Accommodation in Zanzibar. Local transport related to performances. Tanzanian visa costs. Festival passes granting access to all shows during the event. Invitations to networking sessions, press conferences and related activities. Promotion through festival programmes, press releases, website and social media platforms. Visibility for travel sponsors on the festival’s promotional channels. Organisers noted that artists travelling from outside the region are generally expected to secure their own international travel sponsorship, although the festival may provide assistance where possible. View the original call here. Disclaimer: Opportunities published on this platform are provided by external organisers. While we aim to share accurate and current calls, Music In Africa is not responsible for the organisation, management or delivery of any related events or programmes.

Apple has selected South African singer and songwriter Umzulu Phaqa as the latest local act to feature in its Apple Music Up Next initiative. The programme, run by Apple Music, highlights emerging artists from around the world and promotes them through curated playlists and editorial support on the platform. “Being featured on Apple Music’s Up Next is incredibly exciting because it opens the door for the world to experience my sound,” Umzulu Phaqa said. “My music is a fusion of traditional Zulu elements and contemporary sounds, rooted in heritage but always evolving. “My goal is to be a global superstar while staying grounded in my culture, and this moment feels like a powerful step towards that vision.” As part of the Up Next programme, Umzulu Phaqa will be featured on the Up Next playlist on Apple Music, which showcases emerging artists selected by the platform’s editorial teams globally. Previous artists highlighted through the programme include Billie Eilish, Khalid, Burna Boy, Tems and Megan Thee Stallion. Born Sphiwe Moya in rural KwaZulu-Natal, Umzulu Phaqa is known for blending Afro-soul, Afropop, house and hip-hop with lyrical narratives rooted in isiZulu culture. She gained wider attention in 2025 with the release of the single ‘Mam’gobhozi’, which circulated widely online after being released in an unmastered format intended to preserve the message of the song. Later in 2025, she collaborated with MsFit on a joint project titled And The Grammy Goes To!. The 16-minute release features tracks such as ‘GRAMMY’, ‘PUT IT DOWN’ and ‘AMAHIGH VALUE WAT WAT’.

The YouthX Festival will return to Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on 4 October 2025 under the theme Dreams Don’t Sleep. The event, backed by Nedbank, is designed to celebrate youth innovation and creativity across different industries. Central to the festival is the YouthX Awards, which will recognise 10 young South Africans making notable contributions in their fields. One overall winner will be announced on the day. This year’s edition will also feature a 12-hour music line-up with performances by DJ Maphorisa, Focalistic, Mellow & Sleazy, Shekhinah, Shamiso, Sun-El Musician and Nasty C. Other acts include DJ 1D and Omagoqa. Media personalities Primo9Teen and Lula Odiba are set to host. Nedbank’s head of youth segment strategy and client value proposition, John Makgato, said the festival aims to provide a platform for young people to gain visibility and support while pursuing their ambitions. The YouthX Festival has grown over the years into a cultural platform celebrating resilience and youth leadership. Tickets are available through Webtickets, with discounted rates for Nedbank clients. Focalistic to perform at ACCES 2025 Showcase Festival Away from YouthX, Focalistic will also perform at the ACCES Showcase Festival in Pretoria on 1 November. The showcase, taking place at 012 Central, forms part of ACCES 2025, a pan-African music business conference organised by the Music In Africa Foundation. His performance is expected to highlight Pretoria’s influence on amapiano and hip hop, and will bring his catalogue to a stage that attracts both African and international music professionals. Before his performance, Focalistic will take part in a keynote fireside chat at the ACCES Conference on 30 October at the Aula Theatre, University of Pretoria. The session, titled From Pitori to the World: A Conversation with Focalistic, will reflect on his journey from Pretoria to international stages. Registration for the conference is free, while tickets for the Showcase Festival are available via the official ACCES website.

South African house music duo Black Motion will host the next edition of their annual Friends of Black Motion (FOBM) festival at the Lion & Safari Park on 20 September 2025. The event follows the group’s four nominations at the 31st South African Music Awards (SAMA 31), where they are in contention for Best Dance Album, Best Collaboration, Best Produced Album and Best Engineered Album. The group, comprising Roy Thabo Mabogwane and Kabelo Koma, said the nominations were a significant milestone in their career, reflecting their recent rebranding efforts. “We started rebranding three years ago and have now been rewarded with four nominations. This is a nod to our music,” Black Motion said. FOBM has been staged as a platform where established and emerging acts perform side by side. The 2025 edition is expected to feature a mix of well-known names and up-and-coming artists. The setting at the Lion & Safari Park is intended to combine live music with the backdrop of South Africa’s natural landscape. The date change to 20 September was prompted by the duo’s recognition at SAMA 31, with organisers saying the decision was made to celebrate the achievement with their audience. Tickets purchased for the original date will remain valid.

Spotify has lifted some restrictions on its free, ad-supported tier in a move aimed at boosting advertising revenue following recent declines. The streaming service confirmed on 16 September that it is “rolling out updates globally” to allow ad-supported users to search for and stream individual tracks. Until now, free accounts on mobile devices were limited to shuffle play. The change has been welcomed by non-paying users, with many sharing positive reactions on social media. However, some Premium subscribers have expressed concern about the value of their paid plans, questioning the incentive to continue paying for features such as AI-generated playlists and lossless audio. The development comes after Spotify reported a 1% year-on-year drop in advertising revenue during the second quarter of 2025, leading to the departure of several senior executives in the advertising division. The company has previously stated its ambition to generate 20% of overall revenue from advertising. The move also follows a broader decline in the US streaming market. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) recently confirmed that “free streaming” revenue fell in the first half of 2025, marking the first such half-year drop in more than a decade. Spotify’s decision contrasts with past experiments that introduced new restrictions for free users, such as temporary limits on lyrics access in 2024. It also diverges from industry proposals such as Sony Music’s 2023 suggestion that ad-supported listening in established markets could become a paid feature. While the easing of restrictions may strengthen Spotify’s advertising appeal in the short term, the long-term impact on its Premium subscriptions remains uncertain. In some markets, free streaming already comes with limits: in Japan, for example, non-mobile ad-supported listening is capped at 15 hours per month. Spotify has yet to indicate whether further changes will be introduced, but the balance between attracting advertisers and retaining paying customers is likely to be a key issue in the months ahead.

Zimbabwe’s Shoko Festival has announced the final headliners for its 2025 Mash Up Night, which will be held at Harare Gardens on 26 September. South African rapper Reason, also known as Sizwe Alakine, and UK hip hop artist OneDa will join the line-up for the festival’s landmark 15th edition. Reason, a South African Music Awards winner, is currently nominated for Best South African Hip Hop Album of the Year. Having built his reputation as a leading figure in hip hop before shifting into the amapiano genre, his Shoko performance will feature elements of both styles. Manchester-based artist OneDa, recognised by the AIM Independent Music Awards as a BBC Introducing “One to Watch”, will also perform. She is expected to collaborate with Zimbabwean artists Yadis and Enhle during her visit. Shoko Festival director Samm Farai Monro, also known as Comrade Fatso, said the inclusion of the two acts reflected the event’s focus on “building an urban culture legacy” while also creating opportunities for international collaboration. They join a bill that already features Zimbabwean producer Take Fizzo, who will present a retrospective showcase with guest performances by urban grooves pioneers Mafriq, Trinity, MC Chita, Mau Mau, Tererai and Nembo Bwoy. Hip hop artist Sane Wav has also been confirmed. Other highlights of Mash Up Night include a collaboration between Kenyan spoken word artist Mufasa and the Arundel School Music Department’s jazz band, choir and orchestra. Zimbabwean acts Segulm, Briza, Paintafresco, Yadis and Enhle will perform new material developed through the festival’s Mashoko Tapes residency programme. Shoko Festival 2025 will open with Comedy Night on 25 September, headlined by comedian King Kandoro, with support from Kenyan satirist Justine Wanda and Zimbabwean performers Mike Chipere, Munya, and Mbongeni Ignatius Ndlovu, as well as DJ Iroq. The festival will close with Peace In The Hood on 28 September in Chitungwiza. The free event will feature performances by Bagga, Young Fantan, 2024 Zim Hip Hop Best Newcomer Runna Rulez, dancehall artist Madedido and Jnr Spragga. Tickets are available online and at Moto Republik in Harare. Prices range from $10 to $20, while Peace In The Hood remains free of charge.

The Market for African Performing Arts (MASA) is calling on artists from Sub-Saharan Africa to apply for the 14th edition of its event in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, from 11 to 18 April 2026. MASA is one of the biggest performing arts market in Africa and a unique space to discover the latest and most relevant productions in music, dance, theatre, circus, street arts, slam poetry, and storytelling. Requirements Must be an African artist/company or from the African diaspora Performances must be adaptable to indoor or public spaces Present a show less than 3 years old, never before presented at MASA Note: The festival is open exclusively to non-African artists and companies. Eligible performance categories: Music Circus Puppetry Storytelling Dance (urban, contemporary, traditional) Comedy Slam poetry Theatre, Young audience (all disciplines) Street arts Maximum group size per discipline (including crew and manager): Music, dance, circus, puppetry, theatre: Eight people Comedy, slam poetry, storytelling: Three people The application file must include : A short presentation of the creation (max 10 lines). Three high-definition stage photos. A biography of the artist or company with key works highlighted. A teaser video (5 to 7 minutes). A full video recording of the show. A technical sheet specifying : Stage dimensions Lighting setup Number of performers Setup and takedown duration Weight and volume of sets/props Cost of the performance A cast list including : Email and phone number of the group’s contact person Departure city (only one per group) List of all members and their roles Name of the stage manager or technical contact How to apply Applications must be submitted online through the official MASA website here. Results announcement: The list of selected groups will be published no later than 16 December. Email candidatures@masa-ci.org or candidatures.festival@masa-ci.org for more information about this call.

Apple Music has launched its Alpha playlist across Africa, with Nigerian singer Ayra Starr as the debut cover star. The playlist will highlight female artists from across the continent, showcasing their contributions to different genres. Each week, Apple Music will feature a new African female artist. Ayra Starr said the initiative represented “inclusion, a win and more visibility” for women in music. She added that the recognition was significant for artists whose work is often overlooked. She also offered advice to emerging female musicians: “Don’t be ashamed to rebuild, don’t be afraid of failing. Keep reinventing yourself and keep rebranding till you get it right … Don’t be attached to the idea of perfection, it’s an illusion.” Starr’s latest single, ‘Hot Body’, produced by Ragee and the Elements, is the first release to feature on the playlist. Other artists included are Ghanaian R&B and Afro-Fusion singer Gyakie and Nigerian newcomer Salle. Gyakie described Alpha as “an important spotlight on the incredible music women across Africa are already creating,” while Salle said the playlist “offers a platform where we can finally shine on our own terms.”

The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is seeking to appoint a dynamic and experienced Project Coordinator  to support the implementation of the soon to be launched National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA). This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly organised individual to contribute to a large-scale national project that will create meaningful employment in the creative sector. The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the African creative sector, with a primary focus on music. While our foundational work supports a vibrant and sustainable music industry, our mandate has expanded to encompass the wider cultural and creative industries (CCIs). MIAF manages the leading online platform for the African music sector, www.musicinafrica.net, and leverages this expertise to foster growth and connectivity across the creative economy. NEFCISA is a national work placement programme designed to address unemployment and skills gaps in the local creative sector. The facility will identify skills demand, recruit, train, and place a minimum of 1 000 workers into host organisations across South Africa for a period of 10 months. Key responsibilities The Project Coordinator will be an integral part of the project team and will be responsible for the following: Work closely with the project manager in performing the daily management of the project, in line with the approved project plan. Assist in the recruiting, liaison  and provision of support to host organisations and training partners across South Africa. Assisting with the recruitment, screening, and matching of workers to host organisations. Coordinating project activities, including training sessions, workshops, and monitoring visits.  Ensuring the accurate recording of worked time and reconciliation processes through dedicated team members placed in host organisations. Collaborating with marketing, administration and other departments. Conducting field visits to host organisations to monitor progress, verify data, and provide on-the-ground support. Assisting with data collection, reporting, and maintaining accurate records for the Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework. Preparing regular internal reports on project activities, challenges, and successes. Providing administrative and logistical support to the project team. Acting as a key point of contact for project stakeholders, addressing queries and ensuring smooth communication. Requirements A relevant tertiary qualification in Project Management, Arts/Cultural Management, Development Studies, or a related field. Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in project coordination or implementation, preferably within the cultural and creative industries or the development sector. Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including NGOs, businesses, and communities. Experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and report writing is highly advantageous. Demonstrated leadership experience. Skills and competencies: Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written). Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. Willingness to travel nationally. A valid driver’s licence. How to apply Interested candidates should submit their application using this application form here. Please do not email your CV. Applications not submitted through the online form will not be considered.

The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is seeking to appoint a dynamic and experienced Project Officer to support the implementation of the National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA). This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly organised individual to contribute to a large-scale national project that will create meaningful employment in the creative sector, accurate records, and facilitating clear communication between stakeholders. The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the African creative sector, with a primary focus on music. While our foundational work supports a vibrant and sustainable music industry, our mandate has expanded to encompass the wider cultural and creative industries (CCIs). MIAF manages the leading online platform for the African music sector, www.musicinafrica.net, and leverages this expertise to foster growth and connectivity across the creative economy. The National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA) is a national work placement programme designed to address unemployment and skills gaps in the local creative sector. The facility will identify skills demand, recruit, train, and place a minimum of 1 000 workers into host organisations across South Africa for a period of 10 months. Key responsibilities The Project Officer will provide essential administrative and logistical support to the NEFCISA project team. This role is key to ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the project, maintaining accurate records, and facilitating clear communication between stakeholders. Provide administrative and logistical support for project activities, including workshops, training sessions, and meetings. Assist with the data collection and record-keeping for the project's Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework. Help maintain accurate databases for host organisations, workers, and training partners. Serve as a contact point for queries from host organisations and placed workers, escalating issues when necessary. Assist in preparing and distributing internal reports, minutes, and project updates. Support the Project Coordinator and Manager with scheduling, travel arrangements, and document preparation. Requirements and skills A relevant tertiary qualification or diploma in Business Administration, Project Management, Arts and Culture, or a related field. At least 1-2 years of experience in an administrative, coordination, or support role. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). A keen interest in or previous exposure to the cultural and creative industries (CCIs). Experience with data capture and basic reporting Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. Willingness to travel nationally. A valid driver’s licence. How to apply Interested candidates should submit their application using this application form here. Applications that do not comply with the above requirements will not be considered.

Copenhagen-based Togolese musician Alain Dodji Apaloo has won the Danish Music Award (DMA) in the category Danish Blues Release of the Year 2025 for his album Naked. The award citation described the project as “a meeting between West African blues and Mississippi Delta country blues, delivered in a minimalist and authentic style”. Apaloo was among 12 artists nominated across three categories in this year’s Danish Music Awards Blues segment. Following nominations from the Danish blues community, an expert jury selected four finalists in each category, with Apaloo emerging as the winner. His group, the Apipipo Band, was also nominated in the Blues Live Band category. In his acceptance speech, Apaloo expressed gratitude to supporters, band members, his record label Heartcore Records, and Mojo Blues Bar in Copenhagen. “It is a huge honour to receive such a fine prize,” he said. DMA Blues 2025 was organised by TEMPI, JazzDanmark, ROSA and Turbinen, in collaboration with Jysk Blues Netværk. The event was supported by Randers Festuge, the Danish Artist Union and the Danish Musicians’ Union.

The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) have announced the nominees for the Rest of Africa Award ahead of the 31st edition of the ceremony. The category recognises non-South African artists whose music has gained significant traction across the continent. This year’s nominees are Ayra Starr (The Year I Turned 21), Bensoul (The Party & After Party), Wizkid (Morayo), Tems (Born in the Wild), and Fireboy DML (Adedamola). The Rest of Africa Award was established to highlight music that transcends national borders and contributes to a shared African soundscape. Nigerian artists make up the majority of this year’s shortlist. The 2024 award went to Zimbabwean artist Edgar Muzah for his album Son of a Tribe (Royalty Edition), which combined African rhythms with global influences. “The win by Edgar was  more than an award-it was validation that the Rest of Africa Award truly reflects the  vibrancy and innovation of music from across the continent,” SAMAs spokesperson Unati Gwija said. “The interest in this category is  growing, and the domination by Nigerian musicians this year might just be a humdinger of  things to come. “On behalf of RiSA and the SAMA office, we extend heartfelt thanks to the judges, whose  tireless listening and deliberation honour the integrity of this process. Their work ensures  that the Rest of Africa category is celebrated with the respect it deserves,” Below are the 2025 Rest of Africa nominees: Ayra Starr (Nigeria) Bensoul (Kenya) Wizkid (Nigeria) Tems (Nigeria) Fireboy DML (Nigeria)