African musicians can thrive without record labels - Rocky Dawuni

Three-time Grammy nominee Rocky Dawuni has highlighted the diminishing need for record labels in Africa’s music industry.

Speaking at African Music Week Accra on December 27, 2024, he noted that digital platforms have transformed the music business, allowing artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers.

Dawuni recounted his own experience during the rise of MySpace, which helped him break into the U.S. market.

He emphasized that African musicians can now directly connect with global audiences through online platforms, eliminating the need for record label intermediaries.

He stated, “We just need to be organized, monetize our music, and market directly to listeners.”

The relevance of record labels remains a debated topic, with some citing their limitations and others recognizing their advantages for artists.