TuneCore Appoints Akhila Shankar As Head Of South Asia Operations

TuneCore, the leading development partner for self-releasing artists—owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies—has named Akhila Shankar as the company’s new Head of TuneCore, South Asia. Shankar will report to Tash Shah, TuneCore’s Vice President, International, as well as Vivek Raina, Managing Director, Believe India.

Shah commented, “The South Asian music industry consists of one of the most diverse and robust pools of talented independent artists in the world; one that TuneCore is constantly working to provide with resources, support, and guidance so that local South Asian artists can grow their careers both regionally and globally. With Akhila at the helm of TuneCore’s operations in South Asia, I’m confident that we’ll continue to grow as a company and witness the success of our many brilliant artists from India and beyond.”

As Head of TuneCore, South Asia, Shankar—based in Mumbai—will be responsible for growing and managing the company’s artist roster in the region and providing support through localization efforts, partnership opportunities, and the development of innovative marketing campaigns on behalf of TuneCore and its artists.

Shankar commented, “In South Asia, there’s been a shift away from traditionally film-dominated music consumption towards independent artist fandom, while the growth of music streaming services and technologies have eliminated many of the barriers to entry that once existed. TuneCore's mission to serve local artists in their early stage plays a crucial role in empowering them to take their music to the world. I am excited to build on the solid foundation TuneCore has built in the region as we grow in India and expand into newer markets across South Asia."

Previously, Shankar served as Director, International at leading subscription podcasting and audio company Luminary, where she led the company’s expansion and subscription growth in international markets, increasing Luminary’s native footprint from 11 to 60 global markets. Prior to her time at Luminary, Shankar spent 7+ years at India’s leading audio streaming service JioSaavn, serving as the company’s Director, Brand, Communications, and Marketing, where she secured 100+ strategic marketing partnerships across multiple languages and genres, and led the team that propelled the brand’s astronomical growth between 2014 and 2021, including through the JioMusic and Saavn merger. She also co-hosts The Indian Music Charts Podcast, India’s #1 music commentary podcast on Apple.

Shankar’s appointment follows the departure of former Head of TuneCore, South Asia, Heena Kriplani who is leaving the company to relocate overseas. Kriplani commented, “Building TuneCore South Asia from the ground up has been a tremendously fulfilling journey. As I hand the reins to Akhila, I am confident that she will continue to support TuneCore’s vision of empowering self-releasing artists to grow their careers, on their own terms.”

Vivek Raina, Managing Director, Believe India commented, “We’re happy to have Akhila take on Heena's mantle. With her wealth of industry experience and insights, I am confident that she will lead TuneCore India to new heights and significantly contribute to Believe's leadership team in India."