Seabelo Modibe, the BOMU Awards Coordinator and Director of Total Music Group, has challenged Botswana’s artists to embrace the business side of the music industry by digitising their work and subscribing to industry organisations that protect their interests.
Speaking ahead of this year’s BOMU Awards, Modibe said many local musicians continue to “do half of the business” by creating music without ensuring it is available on digital platforms where it can be tracked, verified and monetised. According to him, artists who fail to put their music online miss opportunities to earn revenue and establish a credible catalogue of their work.
“If all of you have got 50 songs that you have written, it is a good way for people to come and put them online,” he said, adding that digital platforms help verify ownership and make it easier to address disputes over originality and plagiarism.
Modibe also raised concern over the low number of artists registered with unions and collective management organisations. He said many musicians are not subscribed to structures designed to safeguard their rights and collect royalties on their behalf, leaving them vulnerable to financial losses.
He revealed that industry stakeholders are planning a music conference aimed at educating artists on copyright, royalties, digital distribution and other aspects of the music business. “Artists must do the entire job,” Modibe stressed, arguing that talent alone is no longer enough in an increasingly competitive industry.
His remarks come at a time when Botswana’s music sector continues to search for sustainable ways of helping creatives earn a living from their work beyond live performances and awards recognition.
