It’s June 1, 2020 a historic day in Zimbabwe’s culture and creative industry as the first production from the southern African country, ‘Cook Off’ starts showing on Netflix.
But adding to that, more sweet news is coming in as Sony/ATV Music Publishing South Africa announced it has named Munyaradzi Chanetsa A&R Manager, Africa.
Munya will be responsible for finding new talent throughout the continent, promoting songwriters’ copyright and careers, and connecting them to larger opportunities around the world. He will also work closely with colleagues to pitch new and existing repertoire into the marketplace.
“I have worked with Munya previously and I have no doubt we have a person here who brings with him dedication, passion and experience, which is key as we expand our publishing business across the continent. We are excited to work with him to achieve our goals,” said Managing Director of Sony/ATV South Africa, Rowlin Naicker.
Munyaradzi is a prominent music executive in South Africa and throughout the continent. With his A&R and licensing experience spanning over ten years, he has engaged mobile and online platforms, independent record labels, artists and music publishers. He has also been a featured presenter on music copyright at leading forums in South Africa, Angola, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
“He is a creative talent with vast experience and a perfect fit for our company and its creative ambitions. With Munya’s position in the creative community both in South Africa and across the African continent he will be a great addition to our global team,” said Sony/ATV President, International, Guy Henderson.
He joins Sony/ATV SA from CAPASSO (Composers, Authors, Publishers Association of SA) where he served as Head of Licensing. Prior to that, Munyaradzi was Head of Operations at Content Connect Africa whilst also assuming the role of Managing Director of Content Connect Ghana and Content Connect International. Earlier in his career, he was Head of Marketing & Promotions for Putumayo World Music in South Africa, which is based in New York.
“I am joining a great team of talented people who share my passion, and I just cannot wait to see what we can all achieve together,” said an elated Chanetsa.
“My first point of action is educating the creative industry about Publishing and highlight its importance and how to earn revenue through using their song writing or producing capabilities. The lack of education is what has hindered the growth of this industry on a continental scale. During the pandemic I plan on launching virtual workshops as well as song writing camps very soon,” revealed Munya.
Meanwhile, local music producer and Chanetsa’s long time colleague in the industry, Alex Goho congratulated the lad and called on Zimbabwean creatives to use him as launch pad to greater heights.
“This an opportunity that should not be taken lightly. It’s a development that must be seriously considered as a stepping stone towards getting Zimbabwean music onto the global stage,” said Goho.
“This is an answered prayer. God has put a soldier in the right position so that our bussing acts inspired by world icons on the pop scene will have an opportunity of rubbing shoulders with the gurus of African music as well as world music,” he added.
