The appointment forms part of ONErpm’s expansion efforts in Africa. The distributor is among the fastest-growing independent music companies in the world. It occupies a unique space between a traditional record label and distribution company, and leverages proprietary technology, marketing, analytics, and localised support to deliver business solutions to more than 100 000 artists, music labels and creators worldwide.
Okirike boasts extensive experience in marketing and the music industry. He joins ONErpm following his role at Boomplay Ghana as content executive, where he led a team responsible for creating, publishing and promoting digital media content on the Boomplay Music app.
Prior to Boomplay, he held the role of music editor at NotJustOk, where he was responsible for covering the Ghanaian industry for the online music platform.
Okirike is an experienced journalist and serves as a contributing writer for several digital publications in West Africa and beyond, such as OkayAfrica and Complex.
He will report directly to ONErpm director of African operations Osagie Osarenz, who was instrumental in launching the company’s first African office in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2020, and led the establishment of five new ONErpm offices in Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa last year.
In his new position, Okirike will work across marketing, distribution and A&R, supporting ONErpm’s roster of artists in Ghana.
“I’m honoured to be representing ONErpm in the West African region, and I see it as a golden opportunity to add value, create opportunities and build structure in the African music ecosystem locally and globally,” Okirike said.
In line with ONErpm’s commitment to building a global business in key emerging markets, ONErpm’s Africa team has already partnered with new talent Ghana including Wendy Shay, Kelvyn Boy, DopeNation, and E.L, among others.