In June 2025, blockchain technology is emerging as a powerful ally for South African musicians seeking fair compensation in a historically exploitative industry. Platforms like Audius, Emanate, and the South African-developed RhythmChain are using decentralized systems to ensure transparent royalty payments, giving artists greater control over their earnings. This development is particularly significant in a country where musicians often struggle with opaque contracts and delayed payments from streaming services and labels.
Blockchain-based platforms operate on a decentralized ledger, recording every stream, download, or sale in a tamper-proof system. This transparency eliminates intermediaries, ensuring artists receive payments directly and instantly. RhythmChain, launched in Durban in 2024, has gained traction among Amapiano and Afro-house artists. “Our platform guarantees that every cent from a stream goes straight to the artist’s wallet within seconds,” says founder Naledi Sibisi in a Forbes Africa feature. By June 2025, RhythmChain reported over 10,000 registered users, including stars like Kelvin Momo and Sfarzo Rtee.
The financial impact is substantial. A Music In Africa study estimates that South African artists lose up to 60% of their streaming revenue to intermediaries like labels and distributors. Blockchain platforms reduce this to under 10%, with Audius charging a flat 5% transaction fee. For emerging artists, this means retaining more income to reinvest in their careers. “I used to wait months for Spotify payouts, and even then, I’d get pennies,” says Bassie, a 2025 Metro FM Music Awards winner. “With Audius, I see every stream and get paid instantly. It’s life-changing.”
Beyond royalties, blockchain offers innovative monetization models. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) allow artists to sell digital collectibles, such as exclusive tracks or virtual concert tickets. In May 2025, Tyla, the iHeartRadio Music Award winner, sold 5,000 NFTs of her single “Water” on RhythmChain, raising R1.5 million in 24 hours. Fans who purchased the NFTs gained access to a virtual meet-and-greet, blending technology with fan engagement. “NFTs let me connect with my supporters in a new way,” Tyla told The Media Online.
Despite its promise, blockchain adoption faces hurdles. High electricity costs in South Africa make crypto transactions expensive, and many artists lack the technical know-how to navigate these platforms. To address this, RhythmChain offers free workshops in townships, teaching musicians how to set up digital wallets. Additionally, concerns about environmental impact persist, though platforms like Emanate use energy-efficient blockchains like Solana to mitigate this.
The South African Music Industry Council (SAMIC) is taking notice, announcing plans in June 2025 to pilot blockchain-based royalty systems for its members. “This technology could level the playing field,” says SAMIC chair Zakes Bantwini. As blockchain gains momentum, it’s clear that South African musicians are poised to reclaim their financial power, one transparent transaction at a time.
Discover more from Vocalist
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
