Get Guardian on GoogleAfrobeats sensation and entrepreneur, Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, widely known as Mr Eazi, is elevating his entrepreneurial aspirations with an ambitious initiative to acquire African music catalogues through his venture, emPawa Africa.
The singer shared this exciting news on Monday, September 15, via his official X (formerly Twitter) profile, inviting rights holders to connect with him. He wrote, “by the way, I’m buying catalogues, so, if you own an African music catalogue (with proof) and have three years of earnings history, and you’re open to selling a piece, contact @emPawaAfrica.”
This move aligns with a burgeoning trend in the global music industry, where major companies are actively acquiring catalogues — an artiste’s repertoire — as long-term revenue investments. Artistes typically receive a substantial upfront payment, while the acquiring companies benefit from the future royalties.
Through emPawa Africa, Mr Eazi is particularly focused on established music catalogs that have a proven value. This strategy not only aims to keep African intellectual property within the continent but also positions emPawa as a pivotal player in the rapidly evolving music economy.
Renowned for discovering and nurturing talents like Joeboy, emPawa Africa is signaling a transformative new chapter—one that could redefine the valuation and monetization of African music on a global scale. This initiative comes on the heels of the company’s recent appointment of Miller Williams as Head of Publishing, a role dedicated to growing the catalogue and expanding internationally.
A music catalogue comprises the rights an artiste (or rights holder) has over their recorded works—including songs, recordings, and compositions. It may encompass rights to recordings, publishing, royalties, licensing, synchronisation (for movies, ads), streaming, and physical sales.
On a global scale, there has been a remarkable uptick in companies, private equity funds, and tech platforms purchasing music catalogues—from big stars to lesser-known artistes. These catalogs are increasingly recognised as valuable assets within the industry.
Pix: Mr Eazi
