This edition features artist profiles ready for collaboration and licensing: Hilla Peer (Israel) – Pop: A versatile vocalist and songwriter creating professional custom vocals and sync-ready original music tailored for commercials and film. Paula Szczyt (Poland) – Alternative Pop Rock: Blending raw rock energy with soulful blues, she creates emotionally driven tracks perfect for visual media and live performances. SUIT (Argentina) – Pop: An energetic band known for their high-quality productions, including their latest release recorded at the famous Unísono studio. Morgana Magna / Furies (France) – Rock: Delivering powerful, myth-inspired music with the intense, driving energy of classic rock, ideal for recording and media projects.

“Такою як є” by Ukrainian songwriter Fokla Fortel is an indie track with a mid-tempo feel and a multi-layered mood: romantic, uplifting, happy, and melancholic. It features tender female vocals and emotionally mature lyrics about choosing each other and emotional closeness. Fokla’s background in film directing adds vivid imagery and a subtle cinematic aftertaste. This song is original and unpublished and is available for exclusive or non-exclusive publishing deals. Fokla is also open to co-writing and adaptation for the right project. (Status: demo / final version.)

Gauteng moves quickly. New music businesses appear all the time, venues keep experimenting and music creators work at a pace that never seems to slow down. In a place like that, it helps to have someone who understands how all the pieces fit together. That person is Andile Lionel Kobese, the new Music2Deal Provincial Representative for Gauteng. He is familiar with the way people, systems and industries connect because he has spent years working inside them. Lionel studied Applied Communication Management at the University of Fort Hare, where he completed both his Bachelor’s and Honours degrees. His studies covered media, corporate communication, sociology, marketing communication and developmental communication. The focus of this field is understanding how information moves, how communities respond and how organisations function. His early career was shaped inside South Africa’s civic and administrative structures. He worked in elections, courts, local government and SAPS. These roles taught him how to move through complicated systems and understand what people need within them. After this, Lionel spent many years at SAMRO. He started as a Licensing Representative and later became a Regional Sales Manager, covering the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. His work took him to venues, restaurants, shops and events. He spent much of his time speaking directly with the people who use music in their businesses. This included explaining what the law requires, what needs to be licensed and how to stay compliant while respecting the creators behind the music. He has dealt with the administration, the policies and the realities of music rights. The work is not glamorous, but it is what keeps the entire system functioning. Over time, he also ran workshops for SAMRO members. These sessions helped creators understand royalties, radio airplay and how payments are structured. His goal was always to make the complicated parts of the system easier to understand. Lionel also spent time working with key accounts. Large retail groups with in‑house radio stations rely on proper music usage, and he helped companies such as Pick n Pay and Pep understand their licensing needs across several provinces. He guided their teams on how to use music correctly in each region. Later on, he moved into community development and liaison work. This gave him a different set of skills and a deeper understanding of how to communicate across cultures. He gained experience supporting people who often have to navigate systems that do not always work in their favour. At 4Phase Consulting Engineers, Lionel worked within the Upgrading of Informal Settlements Programme (UISP). He supported municipalities such as Great Kei, Buffalo City and Amahlathi. Much of his work involved helping steering committees run smoothly and making sure communities were informed about what was happening around them. He continues this type of work today as a Community Liaison Officer for Vitsha Trading. He serves as a link between development projects and the communities affected by them. He keeps people updated about employment opportunities and construction progress. He has a strong ability to communicate with people at all levels, from community members to administrators, and he brings this skill into every environment he enters. At the same time, he stays connected to the creative world through podcasters and media professionals. These relationships allow him to remain involved with the industry while broadening his network. All of his experiences come together in a way that directly benefits music professionals. He understands their challenges and he understands the systems they have to work through. As the Music2Deal Provincial Representative for Gauteng, Lionel’s focus is to help the local music community use Music2Deal effectively and connect to global opportunities. Connect with him today! Email: andykobese@yahoo.com / lionel@music2deal.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andile.kobese.3 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andile-kobese-671a8a80/

Tshwanelo Masemene AKA Tee Fields is a Sandton‑based music publishing professional who lights up in the places many of us switch off i.e. copyright, contracts, registrations, royalty statements and the long trail of data that ensures creators actually get paid. She works from a firm internal code where accuracy and transparency are the baseline. Educating artists comes naturally to her and the work of music publishing and chasing up copyrights genuinely energises her. As a Music2Deal member and publisher, she’s here to protect works, support creators and keep the business side of music as clean and accountable as it should be. Tshwanelo has studied Intellectual Property Law, Business Administration, Information Technology and Marketing Management, alongside further training in data science and financial independency, giving her a rare blend of legal, business and technical literacy. Professionally, she has spent years inside the mechanics of copyright and publishing, including roles as: - Copyright Capturer and Copyright Supervisor at SAMRO - Administration & Copyright Manager at Mint African Operations - Legal Assistant at Mdakane Attorneys Inc. - Publishing Manager at Aquinas Media Publishing Her work has ranged from registering and modifying works and running royalty distributions for radio and online music, to managing foreign music usage, Content ID, manual claiming and catalog administration. She knows where money gets lost in the system and how to stop that from happening. Through her company Tee Fields Publishing, she focuses on copyright administration, licensing, royalties, artist support and catalog management, turning complex publishing and licensing concepts into language artists can actually understand. Chasing copyrights, cleaning up metadata, checking statements and fixing registrations looks like admin from the outside, but for her, it’s about making sure the system recognises and rewards the people who created the music. She’s open to collaborating with international publishers on African catalogues through sub‑publishing, co‑administration, catalog clean‑ups, royalty tracking and sync clearances, providing foreign publishers with a trusted local partner while ensuring African creators’ rights are properly handled. She’s here because she believes African creators deserve publishing partners who take their rights as seriously as they take their art. Connect with her today Business Tel: 0639773162 WhatsApp: 081 707 5708 Email: info@teefieldspublishing.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshwanelo-m-ba1850108/

This edition highlights four seasoned professionals from the United States, France, Germany, and South Africa: Arron Gonzales (World Movement Enterprise, USA) – Global marketing & Connected TV strategy Xavier Collin (WTPL Music, France) – Music publishing, rights management & artist services Frank Otto (CHAMPIONSOUND, Germany) – Label founder, artist development & music marketing Vumani Ngema (South Africa) – Distribution, publishing & cross-sector entertainment strategy

Nkanyiso Mtshali, known as Brillante, comes from Ntuzuma in KwaZulu‑Natal and has been involved in the arts since he was a child. He started out in school doing traditional dance, drama and poetry, later recording his poem Uyena Lo in 2010 under his real name, which many people still recognise today. His background includes hip hop, poetry, acting, choreography, filmmaking & writing and he has always approached creativity with curiosity rather than ego. He learns quickly, applies what he learns immediately, and stays grounded through the process. His work naturally expanded into branding because he has an unusual ability to look at an idea and see how it can work across different industries, products or platforms. This thinking led to Brillante Brands and the wider Brillante Worldwide identity, which reflect his interest in both creativity and business. He is someone who connects easily with people, networks with intention and creates relationships that become part of his work. Alongside the music and brand direction, he is involved in community and festival work, including the Ink Arts Festival. Today, he also serves as the KwaZulu‑Natal Provincial Representative for Music2Deal, where he uses his industry awareness, his networking skills and his practical mindset to help artists connect with real opportunities and grow their careers in a professional way. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brillanteworldwide Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brillanteworldwide YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brillantebrands4799 WhatsApp: +2768 053 2536 Email: brillantebrandsceo@gmail.com/ nkanyiso.zulu@music2deal.com

If you spend a few minutes speaking with Kagiso Mokgari, better known as DJ Xtee, it becomes clear how much of his story is rooted in Tembisa. He grew up surrounded by church music, street sounds, neighbourhood gatherings and the mix of energy that comes with township life. Music wasn’t something formal in the home, but it was always around him. At school he gravitated towards anything creative. Drama, choir, poetry and music gave him space to experiment and build confidence. Teachers and choir leaders were some of the first people who recognised his talent and encouraged him to take it seriously. Seeing local DJs and musicians in his community also gave him a sense of what was possible. He remembers school performances clearly because that was where he first understood how people responded to him. The way an audience reacted made him feel connected without having to explain anything. Later, when he started making his own beats on production software, he recognised that same feeling and realised music was more than just an interest. Over the years, his environment shaped his sound. Tembisa exposed him to house, hip hop, jazz, gospel and many other styles. That mix still shows up in his music today. He works across deep house, soulful house, tribal, broken beat, electronica and anything that allows him to translate emotion into sound. He describes his style as layered, atmospheric and rooted in African identity, with themes influenced by experiences in his community and work with young people. His technical journey started around 2004 and eventually included learning the keyboard, DJ equipment and music software. Studying IT, sound engineering and business helped him professionalise his work and run Deep Fam Records with structure and clarity. Collaboration has played a big role in his career. He has worked with artists such as Lemogang Mahlangu, Tacboy of the ET Boys in Florida USA and Grammy Nominee Jazz legend of Liquid Soul Chicago, as well as international labels including Piratebrain Records, AudioBites Records and WakeUp Music Group LLC. These projects broadened his audience and helped him grow creatively. Outside the studio, he works with the non‑profit Safe A Boy Child, where he focuses on youth empowerment through art. This work connects back to many of the themes listeners hear in his music. Today, he represents Music2Deal in the North-West Province, where he helps artists access new opportunities, improve their professionalism and connect with both local and international networks. He continues to produce, collaborate and build on the foundation he has created over the years. Looking ahead, he hopes to inspire young people, strengthen his label and play a role in building South African electronic music on a larger scale. X https://x.com/Djxtee Facebook Deepfam Records https://www.facebook.com/deepfamrecords DJ Xtee https://www.facebook.com/Djxtee Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dj_xtee Artist Releases https://wakeupmusicgroup.com/artist-releases/dj-xtee/

As a Brand Ambassador, you’ll: ✅ Represent Music2Deal in your local area ✅ Help recruit music professionals and promote the platform ✅ Assist your Provincial Representative with outreach and engagement ✅ Share updates and opportunities on social media and at local events What’s in it for you? Visibility & Networking: Get featured on Music2Deal and connect with industry professionals worldwide. Exclusive Benefits: Access to promotional tools, training and support from your Provincial Rep and Music2Deal HQ. Growth Opportunities: Build your profile and gain experience that can lead to higher roles within Music2Deal. Requirements: Active in the music industry (artist, producer, manager, promoter etc.) Strong local network and social media presence Willingness to attend music events and promote Music2Deal Ability to work independently and meet agreed targets Interested? Reply with your name, location and a short note about your music background. We’ll connect you with your local Provincial Rep and get you started!

Music2Deal South Africa is expanding its national footprint and we are seeking well-connected, respected music professionals in Western Cape, Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga and Limpopo to act as Provincial Representatives. Ideal candidates are active and influential in their local music scenes, digitally savvy, business-minded and capable of recruiting music professionals, building partnerships and promoting Music2Deal while enjoying commissions, visibility and growth opportunities through our platform and MSOP ownership programme.

Bassline is a long‑standing force in South Africa’s live‑music ecosystem. They run professional training, real‑stage programmes and industry‑exposure platforms that prepare emerging talent for the actual demands of the music business. Bassline's Music Labs are a structured, professional development programme built for artists who want to treat their careers like a business. It’s where you learn the systems behind licensing, branding, stage craft, collaboration and industry navigation. The Labs are designed to build competence and connect you with the people who can actually move your career forward. If you want a seat in South Africa’s most serious music development space, move now. Bassline’s Music Labs applications close 15 February 2026. They’re selecting proactive, Joburg‑based emerging professionals who want real‑world training in event management, concert promotion, stage & backstage operations, marketing, technical production and the live‑music ecosystem. So, if you fit that profile, this is your window - click and apply.

The Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) returns on 22–23 May 2026 at the historic Constitution Hill in Johannesburg. Over the years, ARMC has become a trusted meeting point for artists, managers, producers and music professionals who care about the future of African Music as a meaningful business. The conference brings together a focused group of local and international delegates who are genuinely invested in collaboration, development and sustainable growth. Whether you’re an emerging artist looking for guidance or an industry professional exploring new markets, ARMC creates a space where real conversations can happen. Attendees can expect: Keynotes and discussions led by influential voices across Africa and the world. Workshops and practical sessions that dive into artist development, publishing, digital strategy, rights and new technologies shaping the industry. Showcase performances designed for discovery, where rising artists can perform directly for bookers, A&Rs and decision‑makers. Genre spotlights and cultural conversations that highlight the sounds driving Africa’s next wave. ARMC has become one of the places where careers, collaborations and opportunities start. It’s a platform built on ACCESS — access to knowledge, to industry networks, to visibility and to new pathways for growth. If you want to grow, connect, learn, or simply understand the wider music ecosystem you’re working in, ARMC 2026 is the place to be. Tickets are available now:

We’re expanding our worldwide network of country representatives and are looking for an official, territory-exclusive Music2Deal Representative for Brazil. If you know someone who would be a great fit, please connect us.

“A Winter’s Tale” is a melancholic rock track in English, released in 2025 by Chris Picton. The song blends rock instrumentation with strong, melodic female vocals, creating an emotional love-song atmosphere that feels both powerful and moving. With a mid-tempo pace and a clear, memorable melody, it’s a great fit for scenes that need warmth, nostalgia, or dramatic emotional depth. Use cases: commercial compilation, film, gaming Master track: available

A new internal Music2Deal group is now available: Music Equipment. This members-only space was created by Volkan Gücer and is meant for discussions around music and recording instruments, gear, and related technical topics. For example: you have a synthesizer module that is no longer supported by your software or system? Connect with others who may have the same issue and share experience, solutions, driver files, patch files, workflows, and tips. Volkan is also the founder of MUZIKAL Productions & Entertainment (Cologne), working across music recording and production.

This January Spotlight features four active Needs from Music2Deal members — all open for direct pitches via the platform. Spaghetti Music Publishing (Australia) – Licensing Opportunities Seeking select artists and songwriters to develop international-standard recordings suitable for film, TV, documentaries, and commercial licensing. Producer-led, broadcast-ready masters with clear commercial intent (commissioned/artist-funded productions). Ninenote Music / Aminoto Kosin (Indonesia) – Artists, Songwriters & Producers A new boutique label (Pop) expanding internationally and looking for artists, songwriters, and producers, including connections across multiple territories as they build their roster. Lavina Music Holding / Polina Klim (Ukraine) – Publishing & Direct Distribution Publishing house seeking high-quality music from artists, authors, and rights holders, offering direct publishing and distribution partnerships with major platforms, plus content monitoring and rights support. Volkan Gücer / MUZIKAL PRODUCTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT (Germany) – Hip-Hop/Rap Collaboration A Cologne-based production team seeking a hip-hop/rap solo artist with significant listeners for a single/duet collaboration, supported by a full production pipeline (audio + video). To review all four Needs and pitch directly, visit the full blog feature:

The Music Imbizo returns to Durban from 26–29 August 2026, bringing together musicians, industry professionals, cultural practitioners and decision-makers for four days of learning, networking and collaboration. Now in its 18th year, The Music Imbizo has grown into one of Africa’s most influential platforms for music business, creativity, and cultural exchange. The Music Imbizo is more than a conference — it’s a hub for building relationships and accelerating opportunities. Every year, we open calls for speakers and musicians to ensure fresh voices, new ideas and diverse perspectives. With over 700 speakers from 60+ countries and hundreds of artists showcased since inception, the event continues to shape conversations that matter. What to Expect: Networking That Counts: Meet CEOs, label executives, festival directors, and senior decision-makers in an environment designed for collaboration. Learning & Insight: Panels, workshops, and keynotes on copyright, music marketing, technology, and global trends. Showcasing Talent: Live performances, listening sessions, and competitions for emerging and established artists. Cultural Exchange: Explore how African music influences global trends through discussions, performances, and film screenings. Business Development: Practical tools for monetising music, navigating intellectual property, and building sustainable careers. Theme for 2026 “Toward a Sacred Economy of Sound – Building the Systems for a Conscious Music Industry” As technology reshapes creativity, this year’s theme calls for balance between innovation and ethics, automation and artistry — ensuring music remains sacred in a digital age. Why Attend? The Music Imbizo is Africa’s most important music business gathering, offering unmatched opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or industry leader, this is where ideas turn into action. Apply Now Speakers: Share insights and shape the future of music. Musicians: Showcase your talent and connect with industry decision-makers. Event Details Durban, South Africa 26–29 August 2026 Global delegates, African creativity, real business opportunities.

Archrose Music Publishers, based in Durban, South Africa, is a growing independent player in music publishing and film administration. Founded in 2016, Archrose specialises in music publishing, catalogue management, licensing and digital distribution, helping artists and filmmakers protect their rights and maximise revenue opportunities. Archrose Expertise: • Distribution of music and film content across digital platforms. • Management and protection of music and film rights. • Provision of licensing solutions and catalogue administration. • Supporting creators in navigating copyright and royalty processes. Genres & Activities • Specialisation: Music and Film Distribution, Music Administration and Publishing • Genres: House, Alternative, Gospel & Religious, Pop, Hip-Hop, Dance/Electronica. Industry Footprint: Archrose has achieved music placements with MTN, Netflix & ETV and include recognition from SAMA and Metro FM Awards. Archrose actively participates in industry events such as Ukhozi Business Indaba and Durban Film Mart and engages with creators through initiatives like the Sludge Underground podcast. Other notable achievements include: • Sony Pictures collaboration (April 2025) • Curated music collections (Limited Collection 2025 & 2030) • Gcwalisa 2023 Gold Plaque Collaborations: As a company, Archrose has worked with leading artists such as Ntencane, DJ Maphorisa, Kabza De Small, Sanele Mkhize & Static Que and has partnered with major companies including CCA, Electromode, Sony, Africori, Orchard and MTN. Leadership & Industry Roles: Founder Vumani Ngema brings over a decade of experience in music publishing and supervision. He also serves as a Committee Member for the South African Music Awards (2021–2025) and has previously worked as Music Supervisor at Purenblack Entertainment. His involvement as member at KwaZulu Natal United Music Industry Association (Kumisa) reflects his commitment to industry development. Supported by Nothando Msomi (Marketing Director) and Thobeka Molefe (Legal Consultant), Archrose combines creative, legal and marketing expertise. Future Direction: Archrose aims to expand film distribution on streaming platforms and increase music sales globally, strengthening its role as a trusted partner for creatives. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archrose_admin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vumani-vee-a9801b90/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Archrose_admin

As announced, Music2Deal is now operating under Music2Deal Networks UG (haftungsbeschränkt). You don’t need to do anything — accounts, logins, memberships and platform access remain unchanged. You may simply notice updated legal details (imprint) and that invoices/transaction descriptors now reference Music2Deal Networks UG. If you have questions regarding billing or legal details, please contact us at support@music2deal.com.

In our latest blog article, we spotlight four Music2Deal members actively shaping the international music business through publishing, artist management, legal expertise, and corporate music solutions. This edition features professionals from Ukraine, Portugal, the United States, and Malaysia: Polina Klim (Lavina Music Holding, Ukraine) – Publishing, rights management, digital aggregation Maurizio Clemente (Ritmo Fulcral, Portugal) – Artist management, A&R, electronic music Life D. Griffith (High End Music Partners, USA) – Legal strategy, digital transformation Serene Cheam (Musicpreneur, Malaysia) – Sonic branding, jingles, corporate music services → Read the full blog article:

Happy Holidays from the Music2Deal team! As the year comes to an end, we want to say a big thank you to everyone who is building real connections and sharing real music opportunities on Music2Deal. Your activity is what makes the platform move forward. This year, we passed 18,000+ members, saw growing traffic, and strengthened our international representative network — clear signs that the community is heading in the right direction. Wishing you a peaceful holiday season, a strong start into the new year, and plenty of great deals ahead. Cheers! Mario Christiani, Founder-CEO

Music2Deal is entering its next chapter. From January 1, 2026, the business will operate under Music2Deal Networks UG (haftungsbeschränkt), with the assets and operations transitioning from Music2Deal e.K. For you as a member, the mission stays the same: connect around real music opportunities and turn more contacts into deals. What improves is what’s behind the scenes — clearer structures, stronger scalability, and a more professional foundation for international growth and future partnerships.

The inaugural Worship Praise Unplugged: Funfair and Honors event was held from December 4th to 7th at the Perez Dome in Dzorwulu, Accra. The highlight of the event occurred on December 5th, with a mission to celebrate and honor Gospel music legends who have dedicated over two decades of service to the Church. This year's honorees were Cindy Thompson and Diana Hopeson (formerly Diana Akiwumi), with Diana Hopeson ultimately being recognized as the winner. According to the Events Manager and Head of Operations of Perez Events 360, the program's organizer, attendees were moved to dance and praise throughout the event. He noted that the performers thoroughly captivated the audience. The legends were presented with cash prizes and products from the event's sponsors.

We’re happy to announce and welcome David Potvin as our new exclusive Music2Deal Representative for France. David is the founder of Trepan Records and brings a strong hands-on mindset: in the music business, the right connections can lead to the next collaboration, release, or deal. That’s exactly where Music2Deal fits in — helping artists, producers, labels, and music professionals connect around real music opportunities. As our Rep for France, David will support French members, help onboard new professionals, and strengthen the bridge between the French music scene and our global Music2Deal community.

Each song blends strong rhythmic grooves, catchy hooks, and melodic storytelling, making the music both unique and highly adaptable. Influenced by R’n’B, Soul, and Pop, with touches of Rock, Country, Jazz, and Funk, these tracks cross genres while maintaining a consistent emotional pulse. Refined over nearly four decades, my work captures an authentic energy that resonates with audiences — music that inspires, connects, and stays with you. Perfect for creative professionals looking for sync-ready songs with character and heart.

We are happy to share that another real-world success story has emerged from connections made on Music2Deal. Long-time Music2Deal member and East Africa Representative John Katana connected with ORDIOR founder and CEO Damien Reilly via the platform. From this initial contact, Them Mushrooms went on to sign with ORDIOR, Blue Pie Records and Blue Pie Publishing, opening up a new chapter for the band’s international activities. This is the first part of a short series in which we will share more details about this success story, including a mini-documentary, concrete achievements after the deal and a personal testimonial from John about his Music2Deal experience.