In the vibrant African music scene, beyond the dominance of Amapiano and Afrobeats, a plethora of diverse and exciting genres are being explored by emerging artists. From R&B to EDM, Lekompo to Asakaa, Dancehall to Fuji, Gqom, and more, the continent is a treasure trove of musical innovation waiting to be discovered.
Here are 11 emerging artists who are pushing the boundaries and showcasing the rich diversity of music across sub-Saharan Africa:
1. Kaestyle: Hailing from Nigeria, Kaestyle is a talented recording artist and music producer known for his smooth vocals and R&B influences. His latest release, “Egberi,” is a fusion of highlife and drill, highlighting his versatility and creativity.
2. Kold AF: This emerging artist is celebrated for her unique blend of soul, dancehall, and R&B. Her recent projects, including the EP “Kold Szn” and the collaborative EP “Kollide” with French producer BGRZ, have garnered critical acclaim.
3. Sigag Lauren: A Nigerian EDM producer, DJ, singer, and songwriter, Sigag Lauren is praised for his innovative production style and genre-blending abilities. His infectious beats and captivating soundscapes have captivated audiences worldwide.
4. Kah-lo: Known for her Grammy-nominated work with DJ Riton on “Rinse and Repeat,” Kah-lo is a standout dance music artist. Her debut album, “Pain and Pleasure,” showcases her unique style and musical prowess.
5. Lemon Adisa: A captivating performer, Lemon Adisa skillfully blends fuji music with pop, R&B, and hip-hop to create a dynamic fusion. Her recent EP, “Yeebo,” is a testament to her musical versatility.
6. Kharishma: Dominating the Lekompo music charts, Kharishma is a rising star known for her unique vocal style and chart-topping hits like “Matome” and “Sekoloto.”
7. Mr Thela: A Gqom DJ and producer, Mr Thela’s independently released albums have solidified his position in the Gqom music scene. His success with albums like “Make Cape Town Great Again” has earned him critical acclaim.
8. Filah Lah Lah: A talented R&B artist, Filah Lah Lah’s soulful sounds and compassionate songwriting have garnered her a loyal following. Her recent release, “Call Me,” is a testament to her musical prowess.
9. Lwah Ndlunkulu: Infusing traditional elements into her music, Lwah Ndlunkulu seamlessly blends Maskandi and Afropop to create a unique sound. Her hits like “Paris” and “Ngiyeza” showcase her talent and creativity.
10. DESIREE: A leading producer in the EDM space, DESIREE is known for her enthralling sets and infectious beats. Her track “Psilocybin” has become a dancefloor favorite, solidifying her reputation in the music industry.
11. Jay Bhad: A Ghanaian artist making waves in the Asakaa genre, Jay Bhad’s fusion of drill instrumentation and hiplife melodies has garnered him widespread acclaim. His raw talent is evident in hits like “Condemn” and “Y3 Y3 Dom.”
As the world embraces the sounds of Afrobeats and Amapiano, these emerging artists are paving the way for a global appreciation of African music beyond the mainstream genres. Explore the diverse and exciting world of African music and discover the next wave of musical innovation.
