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Spotify ushers five exceptional rising African stars into Spotify RADAR Programme

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Today, global streaming giant Spotify announced the latest RADAR Africa artists – joining a global cohort as part of the programme dedicated to driving the discovery of emerging artists across the world. This year’s list of African artists is made up of the haunting melodies of Bloody Civilian, the soulful sounds of Baaba J, the ethereal vocals of Xenia Manasseh, the genre-defying Tyla, and the fierce energy of Ria Sean.

The all female lineup joins last year’s alumni Ayra Starr, DBN Gogo, Black Sherif, Victony, BNXN and Buruklyn Boyz who were all exposed to new fan communities as a result of the programme. They represent a wide range of styles, from the ambient sounds of West Africa to the masterful Amapiano of South African townships, R&B, alternative and the creative Afropop that has been taking the world by storm. What they all share is a commitment to pushing boundaries and forging new paths in their careers.

Since launching in 2020, Spotify’s RADAR programme has continued supporting artists on their paths to superstardom, helping rising talent at all stages of their development and strengthening their connection to audiences. These  African artists joining the Spotify RADAR programme represent the very best that the continent has to offer.

“As the music industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to find new ways to support emerging talent and offer them a fair chance at success both on and off the platform. So we are thrilled to welcome Xenia Manasseh, Bloody Civilian, Ria Sean, Tyla, and Baaba J to the RADAR programme.These artists represent the diversity and vibrancy of the African music scene and we are excited to support them as they continue to grow their careers,” says Victor Okpala, Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships Manager, West Africa.

From today, Spotify will prioritise the promotion of RADAR playlists, RADAR podcasts, Spotify Singles, and priority releases from RADAR artists across all regions.

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About the artists

 

Bloody Civilian (Nigeria)

Born and raised in Abuja, Nigeria, Bloody Civilian is a genre-defying singer-songwriter and producer with a passion for storytelling. Inspired by her African heritage and a wide range of musical influences, Civilian’s sound is a fusion of alt-R&B and other genres. She began studying music production at the age of 12 and has since self-produced her debut single, How To Kill A Man. Bloody is driven by a desire to empower and elevate African art and history through her music, making her a rising star to watch in the industry.

 

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Ria Sean (Nigeria)

Ria Sean is a rising Nigerian singer-songwriter who combines Afro-fusion, pop, and R&B into her music. With a distinctive and versatile voice, she has collaborated with artists like Leriq, Moelogo, and Adekunle Gold. Her 2020 hit single Lemonade gained international attention, and she went on to release her debut EP Fluid featuring productions from Saszy, Dunnie, and Grammy-nominated producer TMXO. Her sophomore project Love Station features collaborations with Ayra Starr and French-act Yseult. Ria Sean is a rising star to watch in the R&B scene.

 

Baaba J (Ghana)

Baaba J is a 22-year-old Ghanaian singer and songwriter with a passion for music and film. Her alternative afro music blends indigenous high life, pop, rap, and soul, with a unique sound that has won the hearts of many. Baaba J’s debut EP, Lumumba St., released in December 2020, was the major launchpad for her career. She draws inspiration from her childhood experiences, growing up in a big family in Ghana’s harbour city Tema. Her music speaks to meaningful matters such as culture, love, and identity, and she is on a mission to show the world that Africans, especially African women, have what it takes to take the world by storm with their unique, multi-faceted music.

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Xenia Manasseh (Kenya)

This  Kenyan singer-songwriter, possesses a captivating voice that brings a refreshing and pure sound to the music scene. Her debut EP Fallin’ Apart, released in 2019, quickly soared to number one on the Kenyan’s R&B/Soul charts and reached an impressive #2 across all genres. Xenia’s talent extends beyond her own music, as she has songwriting credits on notable tracks like Teyana Taylor’s “Wrong B*tch” and “Shoot it Up” ft Big Sean, as well as Vanjess’s Surrender from the album “Homegrown.” She has collaborated with acclaimed artists such as Sauti Sol, Mr Eazi, Tay Iwar, and has contributed background vocals on Burna Boy’s “Time Flies.” With her genre-defining R&B sound, Xenia Manasseh is making waves not only in Kenya but also in the top markets of the US, UK, Germany, and South Africa.

 

Tyla (South Africa)

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Tyla’s music is a fresh take on pop and R&B, blending South African amapiano and innovative production. Her emotionally-rich songs started at a young age and have led to international success with hits like Getting Late. Her new singles, Been Thinking and To Last, showcase her versatility and push her artistry forward. Tyla was determined to unlock what had always been inside her. “Getting Late” was the breakthrough, and her late 2021 song “Overdue” featuring DJ Lag and Kooldrink soundtracked the second-season trailer of Netflix’s South African teen drama Blood & Water, but “Been Thinking” and “To Last” find Tyla in full control of her own story, especially the emotional “To Last.”

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LaaMi: A Vocal Powerhouse Making Waves

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Born Rauhel Halidu Yakubu, LaaMi emerges as a notable Ghanaian singer, renowned for her commanding voice, exceptional vocal range, and unwavering passion for catalyzing positive change.

Her musical odyssey began on the grand stages of some of Ghana and Nigeria’s premier reality shows, including Stars of the Future 5, TV3 Mentor 6, and MTN PROJECT FAME WEST AFRICA 7.0. Swiftly rising as a distinguished alumna of these competitions, LaaMi has graced events hosted by industry giants like MTN and GTV, alongside captivating audiences at esteemed lounges and weddings nationwide.

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LaaMi’s musical repertoire boasts her latest single, “Izan Bakasaniba,” showcasing her dynamic talent. Collaborating with esteemed Ghanaian artists such as Okyeame Kwame, Iwan, and Blakk Rasta, she continues to elevate her craft and inspire audiences far and wide.

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Beyond her musical prowess, LaaMi’s multifaceted abilities encompass crafting, culinary arts, content development, and beyond. With a fervent dedication to effecting change, particularly among the youth, she harnesses her music and diverse skills as potent instruments for societal transformation.

Her melodies not only captivate but also convey poignant messages that resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds, making her a beacon of inspiration in the Ghanaian music scene.

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Wrench Kidd Enlists Gaffi for His New Single “Going Up”

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Wrench Kidd Enlists Gaffi for His New Single "Going Up"

Hailing from Umtata,Eastern Cape, Wrench Kidd emerged as a dynamic force in both music and fashion. Born on December 17, 2004, his creative journey began to flourish in 2019 when he delved into the realm of music. After honing his craft, he seized the stage at various talent shows in his hometown of Tsolo, culminating in a standout performance in January 2021.

It was on this auspicious occasion that he unveiled his inaugural body of work, the “Escape Puzzle of Fear” EP, crafted alongside collaborator Yung Potion. This debut release not only garnered local acclaim but also caught the attention of international figures such as Kiki X Chucky, Thxbi, Tru Crack, Logical Rhythms, and Lil Ivy, who praised his distinctive sound and vision.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Wrench Kidd achieved a significant milestone by completing his Matric in the same year, underscoring his commitment to both his education and his passion for creativity. With his multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication, Wrench Kidd continues to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape.

Recently, Wrench Kidd teamed up with the hard-hitting Eastern Cape rapper Gaffi to drop his latest single, “Goin Up.” This track serves as a testament to his relentless ambition and drive to thrive in the music industry. Through compelling lyrics and infectious beats, “Goin Up” captures Wrench Kidd’s determination to ascend to new heights and make his mark on the musical landscape. With this powerful collaboration, Wrench Kidd continues to push boundaries and solidify his position as an emerging force in the industry.

Stream Wrench Kidd – Going Up (feat. Gaffi) here

Note to editor 

Social Media 

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Wrenchkiddthebully

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wrench_kidd/

 

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OT n Aiges Poke upcoming Gh rappers

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OT n Aiges Poke upcoming Gh rappers

Talented Ghanaian upcoming duo have dropped what could be described as a poke at other upcoming rappers in Ghana. Ot n Aiges who have received accolades from industry persons, rap lovers among others after releasing mind blowing and creative pieces like “Ass vrs Breast”, The Goat Debate etc., have releasing “Who’s Rapping”.

The song takes swipe at upcoming rappers who claim to be rappers but do what is far from the rap culture. The duo displayed a high level of lyrical dexterity on the song asking their fellow upcoming act ‘Who’s Rapping”?

The even went ahead to mention few cities they they feel rap has been dormant in, after other pioneers leaving the rap scene.

Stream OT n Aiges – Who’s Rapping via

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Sj4wu7pyrs

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Other DSPs – https://easternchild.fanlink.tv/WhosRapping

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Caly Grande Releases His First Single of the Year ‘Racks and Paces’

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Caly Grande Releases His First Single of the Year 'Racks and Paces'

Talented Ghanaian musician, Caly Grande has today officially out-doored his newest song, “Racks and Paces.”

The latest single is an infusion of Reggae and Hip-Hop that sees Caly Grande touch on key subjects such as freedom, self-awareness, as well as mental health.

On “Racks and Paces,” Caly Grande with a tone of playfulness and an underlying toughness in his vocals that match both the song’s jumpy rhythm and theme, delivers a superb performance that easily pierces the ears and hearts of listeners.

The 360 musical artiste opens the song with a free flow that sits perfectly on the one-tap Reggae instrumentals and for about a minute chiefly focuses on making the ‘mula’ and a bit of prayer that continues later on the record.

Caly Grande draws parallels between yesteryears and today with a quick flashback of the independence struggle spearheaded by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The singer highlights the vast difference in leadership back then and the current state of leadership.

Just like his debut project “Press Play” EP released last year, “Racks and Paces,” is an inspiration, a different vibration that goes against rigid and limiting creative procedures.

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The song, according to Caly Grande, was born after hearing another artiste’s song and was inspired to write his unique version that reflects his own reality.

Shedding more light on the motivation for the new record, Caly Grande told Amplify Ghana in an exclusive interview that; he wishes this record puts a smile on listeners and hopefully frees them.

He offered advice about mental health and urged listeners to pay particular attention to the line “in this life you gotta free your mind and do your most best, free the pressure, no more trauma, in this life you do you.”

“Racks and Paces” was produced by Cliq with mixing and mastering done by Jbyss.

Listen to “Racks and Paces”

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Kold AF is Spotify EQUAL Africa’s Artist Highlight, Rising Artist takes on the spotlight for the month of April

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Spotify’s EQUAL program supports female artists in music, giving them a global platform through playlists, content hubs, and partnerships. Rising Nigerian artist Kold AF, known for exploring diverse sounds, takes the spotlight for Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program this April, following her selection as Spotify’s Fresh Finds artists in 2023.
 

Spotify’s year-round EQUAL program empowers female creators with a global platform for growth. The dedicated EQUAL hub connects listeners in over 180 markets with this pool of talented artists.
 

Monica Kemoli-Savanne, Spotify’s Senior Artist & Label Partnerships Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa says, “At Spotify, empowering women and creating opportunities for them is a true passion. We’re committed to continuing these efforts and showcasing rising artists like Kold AF, who serve as a reminder that dreams are valid. EQUAL Africa is honoured to be a part of sharing these stories.”
 

In 2023 alone, Spotify hosted 15 EQUAL activations and over 14.8 million artist discoveries stemmed from EQUAL playlists, and EQUAL artists received 11,800 editorial playlist adds. This demonstrates the program’s impact and reach.
 

Kold AF, who recently released a 2-pack EP called “no PITY” alongside alternative soul artist Aema, emphasises the importance of staying true to her artistic vision; “People often try to fit me into their preconceived moulds, guided by their prejudices. Yet, as a young woman navigating the labyrinth of the music industry, I refuse to be confined by such limitations. My focus remains unwaveringly fixed on staying true to my artistic vision.”

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“Participating in the EQUAL program is a genuine honour, a testament to Spotify’s commitment to supporting female artists. It also serves as a gentle reminder to me to extend a helping hand to the aspiring women who will follow in my footsteps,“ Kold AF added.
 

We had a sit down with Kold AF to delve deeper into her music and creative journey.
 

What is that one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?

That I like video games. I had a Nintendo DS at some point in my childhood and I was STUCK ON IT. I played a couple of games on my friend’s XBoxes and playstations but I never had a console of my own.

Now I’m getting back into the groove of it and I’m loving every second of this reunion of sorts.

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When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing this craft?

I only fully came to the realisation that it was what I was made for in 2019. As a child, I dreamed of being a star, performing in front of millions of people but I was riddled with fear for many years before 2019.

I decided that year that regardless of the intense fear, I would take the first step and keep moving till I see myself on the stages my younger self had been daydreaming about all day with no regrets.
 

Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?

I listened to whatever my parents were a fan of at the time. That included icons like Fela Kuti, Lagbaja, Plantashun Boiz, Psquare, Angelique Kidjo, Fally Ipupa, Awilo Longomba, and the stars that came after them like Asa, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Cynthia Morgan and so on.

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To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?

I would describe my sound as a Fusion. It’s electric and full of emotion. A fluid sound that will always infuse beautiful genres. My foundational genres are Dancehall, R&B and and Afropop but I’m as versatile as it gets and I’ll never be afraid to show it any chance I get.  I speak on real and relatable topics and I’m probably the biggest fan of my own music. When you press play on anything I’m on, you can be sure one thing is constant; QUALITY.
 

Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?

I was literally in their position before 2019 so I can categorically say this; Take the first step. It’s the scariest decision and action but it is the most important one. The ‘what ifs’ and ‘maybes/maybe nots’ don’t matter in the grand scheme of things if you play it safe and never know. Things will come together with time, effort, showing up and consistency.
 

Check out Kold AF’s recently released single “Everyday (I Day Pray)” on the EQUAL Africa playlist.

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Aklerh Takes the Crown: Debut EP “Dancehall Queen” Set to Take Over the Scene

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Talented musician Aklerh is gearing up to take the music scene by storm with the release of her debut EP, “Dancehall Queen.”

The EP, comprising of six tracks, showcases Aklerh’s unique blend of Reggae/Dancehall and Afrobeats.

The EP is produced by industry heavyweights Cashtwo and Jeph Green.

“Dancehall Queen” EP boasts a stellar tracklist that showcases Aklerh’s diverse musical strength and personal experiences.

One standout feature of “Dancehall Queen” is the collaboration on track two, where Aklerh joins forces with Yaw Grey and Ennwai of Dobble fame.

The synergy between these artists on this particular track takes it to new heights, offering listeners a dynamic and unforgettable musical experience.

Thematically, “Dancehall Queen” explores a wide range of topics, from self-expression and personal development to love and empowerment.

The “Labadi Gyal” crooner promises that the lyrics are both introspective and relatable, which will allow listeners to connect with her on a deeply emotional level.

When asked about the inspiration behind the EP title, Aklerh explains, “The title Dancehall Queen represents my ability to seamlessly transition from my everyday self to my sensual and extroverted persona within the Reggae/Dancehall scene. It’s a nod to my journey as an artist and the mastery I’ve achieved in my craft over the years.”

Ahead of the release of “Dancehall Queen,” Aklerh hopes to reach a wide audience and spread joy through her music.

Both personally and professionally, she aims to make a lasting impact on the industry, solidifying her position as a rising star in the music world.

With her debut EP, Aklerh is poised to reign as the undisputed queen of the dancehall scene, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music for years to come.

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