Denis Opudo
Safaricom, a Kenyan telecommunication company has launched a music app called Songa. The move will generate more revenue for the company. Safaricom paid music artists 1.4 billion in 2017. The payout resulted from the use of Skiza tunes by mobile subscribers. Nevertheless, Safaricom launched only Android version. However, the Apple version is under development.
According to Safaricom management, the app will act as an additional source of revenue for artists who also gain from Skiza tunes. Currently, the app has 2.5 million songs from over 400, 000 local and international artists. The revenue generated from the app will be divided between artists, Safaricom, and the app developers.
The app will also allow its users to download and listen to music when offline. Songa app will compete against Spotify and Tidal. These platforms have taken the lion’s share of East Africa’s music. Moreover, Mdundo and Boomplay have also conquered a wide base in the region.
Safaricom has partnered with Sony Music Entertainment and they have Usher and Beyonce in the catalog. Moreover, it recently signed an agreement to give Warner Music Group catalog in the region. Besides, Safaricom also sealed deals with Africha and Africoli.
Subscription Plans for Songa App
Songa will offer 14 days trial period to its clients. After that, the subscribers can pay Ksh.25 daily, Ksh.150 weekly and Ksh.499 monthly. For now, customers will only pay using airtime.
