Africa is filled with creative talents, and following the tremendous success of African music in 2023, this year is expected to showcase exciting voices. From soulful singers to groundbreaking artists, these talents are set to capture audiences and redefine Africa’s music scene.
Spotify, the world’s leading streaming platform, has recognised this potential, revealing a list of rising stars from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) poised to leave their mark on local and global music scenes in 2024.
These fresh artists incorporate familiar sounds with innovative twists, creating a mix of potential that could reshape the musical landscape. Hailing from Nigeria and Ghana, they bring forth a rich tapestry of styles, cultures, and perspectives.
NIGERIA
1. Qing Madi
Meet Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, also known as Qing Madi, a 17-year-old Nigerian pop sensation.
At 16, she made a name for herself with the viral hit ‘See Finish‘, which highlighted her raw talent. The Nigerian Afropop singer, a Spotify EQUAL Africa artist, gained popularity with her hit track ‘Ole‘ and its remix starring BNXN.
Her self-titled EP, featuring popular pieces like ‘Vision‘ and ‘American Love,’ demonstrated her variety and depth as an artist. We anticipate that Qing Madi will bloom in 2024.
2. Guchi
Let’s have a look at Guchi, real name Ugochi Lydia Onuoha, a brilliant Nigerian Afropop singer who is creating waves in the music industry. Her music has made her extremely popular in Nigeria, and she is regarded as one of the country’s leading young female performers.
The Nigerian singer and composer gained popularity with hits like ‘All Over You‘ and ‘Feeling Good‘, which feature Bayanni. Her voice is simple yet resembles that of Afrobeats artists like Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage. She is certainly an artist to watch.
3. SGaWD
SGaWD, also known as Seddy, is a Nigerian rapper who is making waves in the industry. The singer has played in Alte, R&B, and hip-hop the last few years, but her experimentation with Jersey Club, Mara/Street Music, and Rap last year with tracks like ‘Boytoy‘ and ‘Dump All Your Worries On The Dance Floor‘ puts SGawD on a pedestal this year as one to watch when it comes to fusion and cross-continent export.
4. YKB
YKB (Yusuf Oluwo Gbolaga) has become a chart-topping sensation in Nigerian music. His Afropop sound and rising talent are showcased in tracks such as ‘San Siro‘ and ‘This Must Be Love‘ with King Promise.
YKB has won over fans in the Nigerian music scene with his unique style, including cult followings and captivating covers. This is only the beginning for YKB, so expect more infectious energy and smash songs.
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GHANA
1. O’Kenneth
O’Kenneth is a shining star in Ghana’s music industry. This hip-hop and drill singer, renowned for his deep tenor vocals and lyricism, is a key figure in the Asakaa Movement.
While his track ‘LONELY ROAD‘ with Xlimkid ripped over the last quarter of 2023, his various features throughout the year demonstrated his unquestionable potential. So get ready for 2024; O’Kenneth is on the verge of a meteoric ascension.
2. AratheJay
Ghanaian music is seeing a soulful boom with the entrance of Kelvin Black, alias AratheJay. This rising talent combines traditional African sounds with current beats, telling elaborate stories with his singing.
Tracks like ‘Sankofa‘ remix and ‘PRACTICE‘ display his introspective lyrics, which resonate emotionally with audiences.
AratheJay not only seamlessly transitions between rap and hip-hop, but he also injects exciting new energy into the Ghanaian music landscape.
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