music

In a recent interview with the American talk show host Sherri Shepherd, Senegalese-American singer Akon ignited a firestorm of debate when he asserted his instrumental role in the evolution of Afrobeats—a genre that has captivated audiences worldwide since its emergence in West Africa. Akon, known for his catchy hits and distinctive style, claimed that his early collaborations with Nigerian artists, including legends like Wizkid, PSquare, and D'banj, during the late 2000s helped pave the way for the vibrant sounds that now…

LONDON, UK (AX) — In an exciting development for the music industry, Forbes has officially recognized Nasra Artan, a Somali-Norwegian executive at the forefront of international A&R at Sony Music Publishing, by including her in their prestigious 2025 30 Under 30 Europe list within the Entertainment category. This distinction highlights her transformative impact on the global music landscape, particularly through remarkable cross-cultural collaborations and innovative artist development strategies. At just 27 years of…

The tragic loss of Sungura musician Tatenda Pinjisi has ignited a firestorm of indignation regarding Zimbabwe’s ailing healthcare system. This intense response was sparked by a heartbreaking video that captured his desperate pleas for a simple painkiller, all while medical staff resorted to using cellphone flashlights to navigate through the darkness of a power outage. Pinjisi's untimely demise at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital followed a harrowing car accident near the Norton Tollgate as he made his way to Kadoma for a…

Imagine stepping into a room in Minneapolis, where the air is thick with anticipation and cultural melodies. A group of Somali musicians, bonded by shared heritage, encircles a trove of instruments. Among them is Ahmed Ismail Yusuf, their passionate leader. They play tunes steeped in emotions as deep as the Indian Ocean, a rhythm echoing the nostalgic cafes of Mogadishu. This is "Somali blues," a sound as soulful as it is historic. "The lyrics are just showing you what it means," Ahmed muses, his voice a tapestry…

In recent years, African music has taken the world by storm, resonating with diverse audiences and adding vibrancy to playlists across the globe. As these melodious waves reach the ears of millions, platforms like Spotify have become pivotal in spotlighting African talent. Consequently, artists from this richly diverse continent are reaping tangible rewards, holding checks from the Swedish music giant thanks to their unique contributions. Despite this success, Africa…

In a significant move to honor the historical legacy and contributions of marginalized groups, a new inscription in the lxam language has been etched into the façade of Rhodes House at Oxford University. This endeavor acknowledges the tribulations and relentless labor of those whose hardships ultimately contributed to Cecil Rhodes’ immense wealth. The lxam inscription was skillfully crafted by Fergus Wessel, a stone mason hailing from the UK, whose work is steeped in the traditions of the English Arts and Crafts movement.…

The Nigerian music landscape has been graced with numerous talents, but few have soared as high as Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems. Recently, she claimed the prestigious Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance during the 67th annual ceremony. Her triumph marks a significant milestone, as she outperformed a formidable lineup that included renowned artists such as Burna Boy, Asake, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and the dynamic collaboration of Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay. This accomplishment is a testament not…

In an unexpected turn of events, the acclaimed Nigerian artist Tems, recognized globally for her Grammy-winning talents, has opted to cancel her highly anticipated “Born in the Wild” tour performance in Rwanda. This decision, grounded in complex geopolitical realities, spotlights the nuanced interplay between art and international conflict. Tems was set to grace the stage at the BK Arena in Kigali on March 22, 2025, a date that many fans had circled in red ink on their calendars. The excitement surrounding her performance…

There's growing concern in Somali society about how online displays of bravado might teeter dangerously close to hate speech, stirring up long-standing clan rivalries. In Somalia, "The Big Tribal Game" isn't just a pastime—it's practically a cultural phenomenon. This so-called game draws in massive audiences without linking its participants to any form of clan violence. Everywhere you look, thousands of phones light up with this spectacle, not just in Somalia, but across the globe. The typical participants? Enthusiastic…

South African sensation Tyla has made waves at the MTV Europe Music Awards, securing not just one, but three prestigious titles: Best Afrobeat, Best African Act, and Best R&B. This is a monumental achievement, as she’s now the first African artist to snag three MTV EMA awards in a single evening. What a phenomenal feat! Dressed to impress, Tyla paid homage to the legendary Aaliyah by donning a striking replica of the iconic Roberto Cavalli dress the late star wore during the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards. A heartfelt…