Downtown Music Network Dinner
Johannesburg, South Africa – 14 April 2023 SHEER Publishing, a subsidiary of Downtown Music Services group welcomed some of the best in the music industry for an evening of idea generation, business networking and collaboration. The evening was an intimate industry gathering, bringing together some of the latest and greatest talents in the music industry in South Africa and globally. Thando Makhunga, who was appointed as Sheer Publishing’s Managing Director in 2022, hosted the event. Previously, Makhunga worked at Kagiso Media and Primedia in leadership roles before becoming station manager at Gauteng’s leading commercial station 947. Her experience in the music and entertainment industry is extensive. She has earned the coveted seat at the table that provides direction for creatives in the country because of her exemplary track record and expertise. In 2023 she became the first black female Vice Chairperson of the Music Publishers Association of South Africa. (MPA SA), which speaks positively to the growing diversity in the publishing industry.
During the evening, Makhunga welcomed an array of esteemed guests, including Neill Solomon, a multi-award-winning composer, songwriter and musician, and the popular sensation Nomfundo Moh. The guest of honour was Netherlands’ based Pieter van Rijn, the President of Downtown Music. Van Rijn furthered upon Makhunga’s introduction and painted a picture of the direction that SHEER Publishing will continue in as part of the Downtown global network supported by its leading technology capabilities. Van Rijn introduced Downtown Music’s world-class suite of services which will soon be available to African creators, labels, and music businesses.
“I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to host such an incredible gathering of industry leaders and artists at Sheer Publishing’s industry evening,” Thando Makhunga said. “I am passionate about providing a platform for African music creators to showcase their talent and to support their growth and development. With the backing of Downtown Music, we are well-positioned to continue to expand our reach and impact in the industry. I look forward to building on our successes and to delivering even more value to our clients and partners in the months and years ahead.”
The event was a resounding success, with guests enjoying an evening of revelry and networking with like-minded industry professionals. SHEER Publishing remains committed to supporting the music industry in South Africa and beyond.
