Warner Music Group announced on Thursday (October 24) the launch of Warner Music Africa Francophone (WMAFR).
Co-director Yoann Chapalain said in a statement that the new venture “will shine a spotlight on the incredible talent of Francophone Africa.” “Our aim is to bring together diverse sounds and regions, maximize the success of our releases and expand the reach of our music globally.”
The announcement comes at a time when French music is in high demand. Streaming service Spotify said in a blog post in September that “French-language music streaming has surged by 94% since 2019.”
“Every region of the world is embracing the richness and diversity of the French-language music scene,” said Jeremy Ehrlich, head of music content at Spotify. “The number of people listening to French-language music on Spotify is skyrocketing.”
Warner Music Africa Francophone is a collaboration between Warner Music Africa, Warner Music France and distribution company Africoli. WMG previously announced that it would acquire a majority stake in Africoli in 2022.
The company was working with about 7,000 artists at the time. Africoli CEO Yoel Kennan said in 2022, “African music is booming around the world, and some of our artists are right at the center of that explosion.” “Through our partnership, Warner Music has proven that African music is the perfect home” for the future of Africoli and our artists. We look forward to continuing to work with them to help break even more artists on a global scale. ”
WMAFR will be led by Chaparin alongside Marc-Andre Niang. Chaparen also serves as A&R manager for Africoli, while Niang continues as A&R director for Francophone Africa repertoire at WM France.
“It is important that we can create new synergies in the development and structure of the Francophone market in Africa,” Niang said in a statement. “The region is rich in culture and talent, but the ecosystem faces challenges. Our team connects creatives and helps shape an environment that fosters cross-cultural success.”
Simon Robson, WMG’s president of recorded music for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, likened WMAFR to 91 North, a joint venture between Warner Music Canada and Warner Music India that was launched in 2023.
“There are strong cultural trade routes between France and West Africa,” Robson added. “WM Africa Francophone helps support artists in the field.”
