Warner Music Group has appointed a new head of business development for Asia Pacific.
this The senior executive appointed to the position is a Hong Kong national Phil Choi. Choi has held senior positions at the Africa-based music streaming service for the past six years sensationrecently as managing Director. Choi announced his new role via a social media post last week.
MBW understands he will report to headquarters in New York Alan CoyResponsible for business development of WMG recorded music.
Choi’s former employer, Boomplay, was owned by Cross-networkIt is a joint venture between mobile phone manufacturer Transsion Holdings Group and Chinese internet giant NetEase (owner of streaming service NetEase Cloud Music).
The service was originally launched in Nigeria in 2015 by a company called TECNO Mobile and now also has offices in Ghana, Kenya and Tanzania. The platform has 90 million Monthly active users and a catalog of 110 tracks.
The streaming service has previously struck licensing deals with Universal Music Group and independent record label Merlin, among others.
“I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we have been on in shaping the African music industry,” Choi said when he announced his departure from Boomplay in late October.
He added: “African music now has its place and Boomplay will continue to thrive because it has all of you – fantastic teams, committed partners and groundbreaking artists.”
In a resignation letter posted on LinkedIn, Choi thanked the partners, employees and artists the platform has worked with over the years.
Choi said: “To our partners: thank you for believing in our mission. Your unwavering support has made Boomplay a pioneer in African music. Together we have not only built a platform but launched a global Support the movement for African music. Your commitment helps amplify African sounds, rhythms and stories – I hope you will continue to stand with Boomplay as it scales greater heights.
He added: “To our employees across our regional offices, you are the heart of Boomplay. From growing our catalog from zero to 110 million to 90 million monthly active users, we have achieved some Goals that were thought impossible. Watching each of you perform at your best every day is an absolute blessing and I have no doubt that you will continue to bring this platform and Africa to life thanks to your dedication and talent. Music brings new horizons.
“To the artists who work with Boomplay, thank you for trusting us to be a part of your journey. Watching your artistry develop and grow with Boomplay has been one of the greatest rewards of my career. Your music drives our mission, I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished together.global music business