SlikourOnLife rolls out Summer of Visuals funding model for artists

The initiative follows the rollout of SOL Distro, SlikourOnLife’s artist empowerment platform, and aims to test a model that integrates music, media, and technology to strengthen independent creative production on the continent.

Under the Summer of Visuals pilot, selected artists receive financial support to produce music videos and visual content without being required to repay the investment or surrender ownership rights. The project seeks to encourage fairer and more sustainable participation in Africa’s creative economy by prioritising artistic autonomy and economic inclusion.

Founder Siya “Slikour” Metane said the initiative builds on lessons learned from both inside and outside the music industry. “Our goal is to change the music business with everything we have learned outside the music business and everything we need to unlearn inside it. That is the only way we will make an impact,” he said.

Participating artists in the pilot include Blaklez, Jay Jody, Dusse Wavy, Roii, Touchline, Given Kanu, and DJ Stresser.

Speaking to Music In Africa, Metane said: “We are currently piloting the initiative with brands, but artists will need to have a subscription on our platform and demonstrate growth and engagement through their data.”

According to SOL Distro, the programme also represents a new approach to music–media collaboration by funding visuals directly and promoting creative storytelling. By merging funding access with production support, the model allows artists to create high-quality visual work that aligns with their artistic vision and narrative control.

SOL Distro, a project of SlikourOnLife, offers African artists services such as music distribution, creative production, brand collaboration, analytics, and funding access. The platform allows artists to retain 100% of their royalties and creative rights, while receiving professional support to build sustainable careers.

Through Summer of Visuals, SOL Distro continues its broader mission to empower African creators and develop systems that promote ownership, collaboration, and long-term growth in the continent’s music industry.

Click here for more information about SOL Distro.