Downtown Music Publishing Africa Launched

Sheer Publishing Africa is entering a bold new chapter! They have re-introducing themselves to the world as Downtown Music Publishing Africa (DMP Africa). After nearly 30 years as one of Africa’s leading independent music publishers, this was announced on the 27th of May 2025.

The rebrand is more than just a name change. It represents a strategic alignment with Downtown Music Publishing’s global mission — serving creators in over 145 countries. With this shift, global expertise is now deeply rooted in the African music industry.

Managing Director Thando Makhunga describes it as a transformational moment for music rights management on the continent.

Founded in 1996, Sheer Publishing Africa has supported a wide range of music genres including Amapiano, Afro-Jazz, Kwaito, and Hip-Hop. Over the years, it has built an acclaimed catalogue of local and international compositions.

This legacy continues under the Downtown banner, now with broader access to resources and international opportunities for African creators.

Downtown Music Publishing Africa (DMP Africa) Offers Expanded Services and Global Reach

As part of the Downtown network, DMP Africa will now leverage world-class infrastructure, including advanced technology, royalty administration, and client services. This positions the company to make a greater cultural and commercial impact across Africa and beyond.

According to Makhunga, the new identity blends Downtown’s global expertise with the nuances of Africa’s unique music landscape. The company is expanding its scope to serve creators with transparent, tailored, and future-focused solutions.

DMP Africa’s global reach is already evident through its growing roster of international collaborations. The company currently services publishers and clients such as:

• Warner Chappell
• Concord
• Sintonia (Angola)
• Vuga Music (Nigeria/U.S.)
• Murmure Publishing (France)
• Bucks Music Group (UK)
• Saregama (India), one of South Asia’s oldest music companies

These partnerships reflect DMP Africa’s ability to meet the complex needs of global rights holders operating within Africa.

DMP Africa is launching an expanded suite of services — including Neighbouring Rights Administration, which will unlock new revenue streams for performers and rights holders across the continent.

In a first for the African publishing landscape, DMP Africa will adopt Curve, Downtown’s global royalty accounting platform. This system ensures real-time, transparent access to earnings, delivering greater value to creators.

The company is also moving away from outdated contract structures, opting instead for customised agreements tailored to each creator’s vision and career goals.

More than just a publisher, DMP Africa is positioning itself as a trusted creative partner for artists, catalogues, and music businesses. This evolution marks a shift toward a more dynamic and inclusive model of rights management.

Makhunga explains that the rebrand redefines what it means to be a music publishing partner in Africa — where local talent is increasingly shaping the global soundscape.

This repositioning reinforces Downtown Music’s commitment to innovation, transparency, and equity across the global music ecosystem.

Emily Stephenson, President of Downtown Music Publishing, describes Africa as one of the most vibrant creative regions in the world. DMP Africa represents a long-term investment in infrastructure, relationships, and sustainable growth.

Pieter van Rijn, CEO of Downtown Music, adds that the rebrand marks an important milestone in the company’s African journey. By combining global access with local expertise, Downtown aims to ensure African talent is recognised and rewarded on a global scale.

Despite the rebrand, the same passionate local team remains in place — offering the same creator-first service, deep expertise, and commitment to the African music ecosystem.

“We’ve always stood with the songwriter, the producer, the record label — with a focus on independence and creative freedom. Now, with global partners beside us, we’re ready to go even further. For our creators. For our culture. For our future.” concludes Makhunga.

Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on Running Wolf’s Rant.