Macedonian electronic music brand Cafe De Anatolia has officially signed a global publishing administration agreement with Sony Music Publishing, the world’s leading music publishing company.
This milestone partnership marks a historic moment for the Macedonian music industry, elevating not only Cafe De Anatolia but also the profile of Eastern European electronic music on the global stage.
A Major Step for Organic House and Balkan Talent
The news was confirmed by Sony Music Publishing MENA, which welcomed Cafe De Anatolia via its official social media with the message: “Welcome Home.” This symbolic greeting highlights the brand’s integration into Sony’s global publishing family.
The MENA region—Middle East and North Africa—is a crucial market for Cafe De Anatolia, where its music resonates deeply with regional audiences thanks to its fusion of ethnic sounds, deep rhythms, and organic elements.
Pioneers of the Organic House Movement
Cafe De Anatolia has gained international acclaim as one of the founding forces behind the Organic House genre—an innovative blend of world music, downtempo beats, and ambient textures. Their unique sonic identity has revolutionized the global electronic music scene.
The label is the first from North Macedonia and Eastern Europe to be nominated for “Hype Label of the Year” by Beatport, the world’s leading electronic music platform.
Global Reach, Local Roots
Founded in 2017 by Monika Ilieva, Zoran Iliev (Billy Esteban), and Nikola Iliev (Nickarth/Rialians On Earth), Cafe De Anatolia now manages a powerful network of over 50 sub-labels and a roster of more than 4,000 artists and songwriters from around the world.
The label boasts the largest Spotify network in the Organic House genre, millions of monthly streams, and a combined YouTube audience exceeding 1 billion views.
Its co-founders—Rialians On Earth and Billy Esteban—are currently the most-streamed Macedonian artists worldwide, with a massive global following across Spotify, Apple Music, and other digital platforms.
Sony Music Publishing on the Partnership
In an official statement, Nikola Iliev, Zoran Iliev, and Monika Ilieva expressed their excitement:
“We are proud to sign with Sony Music Publishing. This marks a major step in our mission to grow globally and share our unique sound with the world.”
Dounia Chaaban, Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing MENA, added:
“We are thrilled to welcome Cafe De Anatolia to the SMP MENA family. Our shared vision is to build cultural bridges through music and connect regional talent with global audiences.”
Daniel Nelson, SVP International at Sony Music Publishing, echoed the sentiment:
“This partnership opens new doors in world music and aligns perfectly with Sony Music Publishing’s global vision.”