As the sun rises in 2024, a new energy surges through the veins of African music. A vibrant new generation of artists is ready to ignite the world stage, with their vocals ricocheting off sun-drenched beaches, pulsating subterranean clubs, and booming through crackling speakers in crowded cities.
From dazzling Afro-rock goddesses to lyrical storytellers and genre-bending hip-hop pioneers, these 15 personalities represent the future of African music, poised to fascinate audiences and disrupt the status quo.
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The artists highlighted are not just musicians; they are cultural ambassadors, weaving narratives that transcend boundaries. In 2024, their stories will resonate, creating a harmonious bridge between tradition and innovation.” These were the exact words of Zara Mbali, a Music Analyst and Blogger
Odumodublvck
Odumodublvck is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and composer who has gained popularity in the music industry. He is well-known for his genre-bending theatrical performances and has grown in popularity over the last year. He has released several popular songs, including “Picanto” and “Declan Rice,” which have topped local, regional, and international charts. Odumodublvck, with his distinct style and huge fan following, is unquestionably an artist to watch in 2024.
Andrea Fortuin (South Africa)
This 19-year-old vocalist with a voice like melted chocolate has already enthralled audiences in South Africa. Her soulful renditions have gained millions of views online, and her sold-out performance at GrandWest’s Grand Arena demonstrates her star potential. Watch out for her unique music, which combines soulful depth and honest emotion, sure to captivate audiences.
Moliy (Ghana)
Even though he has just recently entered the Ghanaian music scene, Moliy is already making waves. His addictive blend of trap and Afrobeats, along with smooth flows and funny lyrics, has garnered him millions of streams and collaborations with heavyweights such as Darkovibes. Prepare to hear this name on every dance floor in 2024.
Njeri (Kenya)
With a voice that whispers secrets and paints vivid pictures, Njeri is Nairobi’s most recent folk-soul enchantress. Her music weaves personal tapestries of vulnerability and narrative, combining elements of folk, soul, and R&B to create an emotionally charged soundtrack. Prepare to be immersed in her universe, one velvet-toned verse at a time.
Gyakie (Ghana)
Gyakie, an Afro-fusion performer, is making waves with her deep voice and sympathetic songs. Following the success of her breakout track “Forever,” she is positioned to establish herself as a key player in Ghanaian and African music scenes.
Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who has established a name for herself in the music industry. She was found by Don Jazzy, CEO of Mavin Records, and has since released several successful songs, including “Away” and “Sare” 2. Her music combines Afro-pop, R&B, and soul, and she has received recognition for her distinct sound and style 2. With her growing fame and distinct voice, Ayra Starr is an artist to keep an eye on in 2024.
Black Sherif (Ghana): This Ghanaian rapper’s breakout song “Second Sermon” charmed fans with its raw intensity and streetwise storytelling. His ability to combine traditional Ghanaian melodies with modern hip-hop promises fascinating developments in 2024. With his debut album on the way, Black Sherif is poised to establish himself as a key voice in Ghana’s new generation of hip-hop artists.
Omah Lay (Nigeria)
Omah Lay is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer who is making waves in the music industry. He is noted for his distinct sound, which combines Afrobeat, R&B, and soul 3. He has released several successful singles, including “Godly” and “Bad Influence,” which have topped local and regional charts3. Omah Lay is undoubtedly an artist to keep an eye on in 2024, with his distinct sound and huge following base.
Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)
Soraia Ramos, originally from Cape Verde, has been making waves with her deep vocals and Afro-Caribbean-influenced songs. Her ability to combine different musical components and cultural influences distinguishes her as an artist with the potential for international recognition.
Lize Ehlers (Namibia)
Lize Ehlers is a Namibian singer, songwriter, and producer who has gained popularity in the music industry. She is noted for her distinct sound, which combines jazz, soul, and pop 1. She has had several successful singles, including “Drowning” and “Undefeated,” which have topped local and regional charts1. Lize Ehlers, with her distinct sound and huge fan following, is undoubtedly an artist to watch in 2024.
Focalistic (South Africa)
Focalistic is a South African rapper, singer, and songwriter who has gained popularity in the music industry. He is noted for his distinct sound, which combines Amapiano with hip-hop. He has released several popular songs, including “Ke Star” and “Gupta,” which have topped the local and regional charts. With his distinct voice and huge fan base, Focalistic is unquestionably an artist to watch in 2024.
Tems (Nigeria)
Tems is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer who has gained popularity in the music industry. She is noted for her distinct sound, which combines Afrobeat, R&B, and soul. She has had several successful singles, including “Mr Rebel” and “These Days,” which have topped local and regional charts. Tems is an artist to keep an eye on in 2024, because to her unique voice and rising fan base.
Msafes (Angola)
Msafes is a formidable force in Angola’s male-dominated hip-hop scene. Her passionate lyrics address societal concerns head on, delivered with a forceful flow that silences naysayers and commands attention. She is paving the way for a new generation of female rappers not only in Angola but throughout the continent. Keep an eye on her debut album, which promises to tear down barriers and spark conversations.
Lioness
She is a Namibian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has gained popularity in the music industry. She is noted for her distinct style, which combines hip-hop, R&B, and soul. She has had several successful singles, including “Dreams” and “Queen of the Jungle,” which have topped local and regional charts 2. Lioness is an artist to keep an eye on in 2024, thanks to her distinct style and expanding fan base.
Aya Nakamura (Mali / France)
Aya Nakamura, born in Mali and now based in France, has already received international praise for her Afrobeat and R&B combination. As she continues to push the boundaries with her compelling stage presence and addictive rhythms, her influence on the worldwide music industry is predicted to rise by 2024.
As we look forward to 2024, the African music market is pregnant with anticipation for these 15 artists who are expected to reinvent and elevate the continent’s creative landscape. From Nigeria to South Africa, Mali to Ghana, each performer adds a unique voice, style, and perspective, contributing to the rich fabric of African music. Their broad influences, unique techniques, and drive to pushing limits make them not only musicians to watch, but voices that will reverberate on the world stage, cementing Africa’s place as a musical creative powerhouse.