Discovering new music talent is always a thrilling experience that almost everybody in the music industry can attest to.
For fans of African music on Spotify, 2023 promises an exciting lineup of emerging artists ready to make their mark in the industry.
In recent years, African music has consistently produced talented artists who have captured the world’s attention and driven the popularity of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other sub-genres.
In 2022, artists like Buju, Costa Titch, and Asake made a big impact and appeared on Spotify Wrapped lists.
This year, there is a new crop of rising stars set to make their own breakthrough.
Some have already seen early success on the platform, while others are developing new sounds that could shape the future of popular music.
These artists come from various countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and South Africa, and offer a diverse range of styles, cultures, and perspectives.
According to Spotify data, these are the artists to keep an eye on in 2023.
Kinoti
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This Kenyan singer, songwriter, and producer is a hopeless romantic, blending R&B and Afrosoul in his music.
Misee Billions
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This Kenyan artist, producer, mixer, and engineer is working on his debut mixtape “Champagne na Plantain” and is expected to deliver.
Njeri
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Born in Atlanta, this songstress has solidified her position as a rising R&B star from Nairobi, Kenya.
Her debut studio EP dubbed ‘Dimensions’ and project ‘D.R.U.G.S’ earned her recognition, including a cover on Spotify’s Fresh Finds Africa playlist.
V-BE
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Comprising of Mshairi Spikes and Tuku Kantu, this music duo combines poetry and vocals in their work, inspired by life experiences.
Anjella
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This Tanzanian artist was discovered by Konde Music’s Harmonize and has won fans with tracks like “Kama” and her feature on “All Night.”
Wanavokali
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“Those with Vocals” is what Wanavokali means in Swahili.
The six-member group lived up to their name, winning the inaugural Old Mutual’s Amazing Voice in 2020 and cementing their status with their hit single “Rhumba.”
Fresh off an AFRIMA nomination, they’re poised for even greater success in 2023.
Killy
A Konde Music signee, Killy’s hit single ‘Ni Wewe’ fuses modern bongo sounds and zilizopendwa.
Fans are eagerly awaiting new music from him in 2023.
Phina
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The sensational Melanin Queen herself and soulful vocalist made her mark in the Tanzania music scene after winning the 2018 Bongo Star Search.
Liam Voice
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This Ugandan soulful singer has started the year strong with the release of his first single “Gwe Abilina.”
Axon
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This 25-year-old music producer and artist from Uganda has worked with Lamu, Kohen Jaycee, Selecta Jef, and John Blaq.
He co-produced the hit “Tip” and has an EP out with Kohen Jaycee.
Expect great things from him this year.
These are some of the best upcoming artists who are about to take over the music industry as we know it. They are as unique as the different genres they’re representing and the countries they are representing as well.
2023 is indeed going to be a good year for these artistes!
| Nigeria | South Africa | Ghana |
|---|---|---|
| Khaid Tempoe Poco Lee Bayanni Brume YKB Kaestyle | Pabi Cooper Boontle RSA Uncle Waffles Nkosazana Daughter Young Stunna Jay Jody Blue Tape Khanyisa Lwah Ndlunkulu Will Linley Droomsindroom Officixl RSA | Reggie Mellissa Samsney Snypa Beeztrap Kotm |
