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Boomplay

Boomplay is Africa’s largest homegrown streaming service with 90+ million monthly active users. If you’re targeting African markets or making Afrobeats, Amapiano, or African-influenced music, Boomplay is essential.

Artist Portal: Available through the Boomplay app

Claiming your profile

Requirements

  • Music live on Boomplay (distributed through LabelGrid)
  • Boomplay account

How to claim

  1. Download the Boomplay app
  2. Create an account
  3. Search for your artist profile
  4. Apply for verification through the app
  5. Provide verification documents
  6. Wait for approval

Key features

FeatureDescription
African Genre FocusAfrobeats, Amapiano, Highlife, Gospel, and more
Billboard IntegrationStreams count toward Billboard charts
Artist MonetizationEarn from streams and downloads
Live StreamsConnect with fans in real-time
DRM ProtectionPrevents piracy

Why Boomplay matters

Market dominance

Boomplay is the dominant streaming platform in:

  • Nigeria - Africa’s largest music market
  • Kenya - East African hub
  • Ghana - Strong Afrobeats scene
  • Tanzania - Growing user base
  • Other African markets - Expanding rapidly

Billboard recognition

Boomplay streams count toward:

  • Billboard Hot 100
  • Billboard Global 200
  • Other Billboard charts

This makes Boomplay critical for charting success with African audiences.

Growing global influence

  • African music is gaining global popularity
  • Boomplay is the gateway to African listeners
  • Cross-cultural appeal is increasing

Monetization

Earn from your music on Boomplay:

Revenue sources

  • Streaming royalties - Earn per stream
  • Downloads - Users can purchase downloads
  • Premium subscriptions - Higher per-stream rates

Payout process

  • Monthly reporting through LabelGrid
  • Payments follow standard distribution schedule
  • Transparent stream counts and earnings

Live streaming

Boomplay offers live streaming features:

  • Connect with fans in real-time
  • Perform live sessions
  • Announce new releases
  • Build community

Genre focus

Boomplay specializes in:

  • Afrobeats - The platform’s core genre
  • Amapiano - South African house music
  • Highlife - Classic West African style
  • Gospel - Strong religious music community
  • Afropop - Contemporary African pop
  • Reggae/Dancehall - Caribbean influences

Regional strategy

If you’re an African artist

  • Prioritize Boomplay for local reach
  • Optimize metadata for African audiences
  • Engage with local playlists
  • Use live features to connect with fans

If you’re targeting African markets

  • Ensure your music is on Boomplay
  • Research genre classifications
  • Consider collaborations with African artists
  • Monitor your Boomplay analytics

Tips for success

  1. Optimize for mobile - Most Boomplay users are on mobile
  2. Engage locally - Understand African music culture
  3. Use live features - Build direct fan relationships
  4. Monitor Billboard impact - Track chart eligibility
  5. Consider regional releases - Time releases for African markets

Need help?