The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) has unveiled the recipients of its 2023 Music Creation Support Fund (MCSF).

The fund, amounting to R2.5 million, seeks to help associate and full members of SAMRO to reignite their creativity and create new musical works to earn an income. Each of the 100 successful applicants will receive R25 000 micro-grants, which will contribute towards the creation and composition of new and original musical works. The MCSF grant has resulted in a cumulative allocation of R7 million, providing vital support to 300 exceptional SAMRO members since 2021.

“The music creation fund is critical in empowering SAMRO members by providing them with the financial support they need to create and share their music with the rest of the world,” SAMRO said. “Investing in our members and their creative projects contributes to the music industry’s overall growth and enrichment.

“As we conclude the third instalment of this ground-breaking endeavour, we remain dedicated to promoting a dynamic music landscape and the extraordinary talent of our members. The MCSF has laid the groundwork for a future filled with musical innovation, passion, and unbounded creativity.”

This year SAMRO received a significant increase of 34% in applications compared to 2022. The CMO said the increase in submissions clearly indicated the growing demand for financial assistance in pursuing new music creation. 

“A dedicated committee of independent adjudicators meticulously assessed the applications to ensure a fair evaluation process. After thorough deliberation, the committee confidently selected 100 SAMRO members who now have an extraordinary opportunity to turn their musical dreams into reality.”

According to SAMRO, 17% of the MCSF recipients were female members in 2022. However, this percentage significantly increased in 2023 due to the organisation’s concerted efforts to address gender disparity in the music industry. This year, 36% of SAMRO female members will benefit from the fund.

Click here(link is external) to view this year’s 100 MCSF recipients.