Vanessa Mdee on how to make it in the African music industry

Tanzanian music sensation Vanessa Mdee, popularly known as V, has been making waves in the African music industry. With a career that started as a MTV VJ and led her to become a successful musician, Vanessa is breaking boundaries and setting new standards in the music business. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Vanessa shared her insights on the challenges and opportunities facing African musicians, particularly in penetrating non-native markets and ensuring the sustainability of their brands. Vanessa emphasized the need for better infrastructure to support artists in monetizing their music and maximizing their potential. She highlighted the importance of distribution and commercial partnerships to generate revenue from music shows and digital platforms. Vanessa also discussed the emergence of innovative platforms like Binary, which are revolutionizing the way artists monetize their fan base through targeted advertising. By leveraging her brand and social media presence, Vanessa has found new avenues to connect with her audience and drive commercial success. One of the key themes in Vanessa's interview was the importance of creating a unique sound and niche in the music industry. Despite the homogeneity of music styles within record labels in Tanzania, Vanessa has stayed true to her influences of R&B, hip-hop, and African jazz. She emphasized the need for authenticity and creativity in music production, even if it comes with higher costs. Vanessa's eclectic mix of musical influences has set her apart in the industry and garnered international acclaim. Vanessa also addressed the perception of celebrity and success among the younger generation. She urged aspiring artists to focus on building a strong brand and working hard to achieve their goals, rather than chasing superficial fame and social media likes. Vanessa's dedication to her craft and commitment to her brand have set her apart as a role model for young people aspiring to succeed in the entertainment industry. Finally, Vanessa spoke about the African Entertainment Awards in the USA, where she was nominated. She emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating African talent on a global stage, despite the challenges and limitations faced by artists outside Africa. Vanessa expressed her gratitude for platforms that showcase African artists and provide them with opportunities to shine on an international level. Overall, Vanessa Mdee's journey in the music industry serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists across the continent, proving that passion, talent, and hard work are key ingredients to success in the competitive world of music.