Performing artists from within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are set converge on Bloemfontein to discuss issues impacting them at the Free State International Music conference from 9 to 11 November.
Expected musicians and stakeholders are from Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. They are expected to give input, discuss and make far-reaching decisions regarding the immediate future of the industry and technology’s influence over it. This three-day event is organised by the Free State Music Association (FSMA).
Music piracy is one of the main concerns impacting performing artists worldwide. The RiSA Anti-Piracy unit is tasked with tackling the issue in the country.
It is estimated that record companies and artists themselves lose about R500 million yearly to piracy. This has seen sales of records, CD and DVDs dwindle.
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro), has tightened measures, encouraging performing artists to register with the body for protection of rights and royalties.
Ayanda Roda, spokesperson of FSMA, said a good attendance is expected given how many artists have registered ahead of the closing date on 31 October.
