South African music submission platform Plugm8 launches

The platform enables artists and labels to submit music through a centralised system while allowing radio compilers to retain full editorial control over what they listen to, review or broadcast. It does not offer guarantees of airplay or paid placement, positioning itself instead as a submission and feedback tool.

Plugm8 has already onboarded several commercial radio stations, indicating early uptake within the broadcasting sector. The platform is now live across South Africa and is expected to expand internationally.

Plugm8 was co-founded by former radio music compiler Jodie Ova and artist Lea Heart, who developed the platform after experiencing music submissions from both sides of the industry.

Ova said a lack of clarity was a key issue in traditional submission processes.

“Artists often submit music via emails or third parties and never know if their track was actually heard or even considered,” she said. “At the same time, radio compilers are overwhelmed by unstructured submissions coming from everywhere, with no simple or consistent way to manage them.”

She added that Plugm8 was designed to address these challenges by creating a single, organised space for submissions.

“Artists know exactly where and how to submit their music, and radio compilers can view everything in one place, on their own terms. It removes noise and confusion on both sides and replaces it with a fair, respectful process that works for how the industry actually operates.”

According to Ova, the platform separates access from decision-making in order to protect editorial independence.

“Artists and labels get a clear way to submit their music, while radio compilers retain full editorial independence over what they listen to, review, or play. The platform exists to support discovery, not influence decisions,” she said.

She explained that, rather than guaranteeing outcomes, the platform focuses on feedback.

“Instead of silence, artists receive a simple playlist, shelve, or reject response. A rejection shouldn’t feel like the end, a shelve can be a sign of potential, and a playlist is a moment of celebration.”

The founders say their combined experience in radio and as independent artists influenced the platform’s design. Ova noted that this perspective shaped Plugm8’s emphasis on practicality and transparency.

“Between us, we’ve experienced the industry from very different but equally important angles,” she said. “That shared perspective pushed us to build something practical and honest, a platform that acknowledges the realities on both sides.”

As female founders, Ova and Heart also see the platform as an example of women-led innovation in music and technology.

“We hope Plugm8 signals to young women that there is space for them to build, lead, and innovate in music and tech,” Ova said.

Plugm8 is currently available to artists, labels and radio stations across South Africa, with plans for wider international rollout.