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“A Huge Turning Point”: Amaarae Reflects on Historic Coachella Debut and Global Rise
Ghanaian singer and genre-defying artist Amaarae has opened up about her groundbreaking performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, describing it as a pivotal moment in both her journey and the broader African music movement.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the Fountain Baby star shared how her debut on one of the world’s most iconic stages signalled a dramatic shift in her career trajectory.
“It was a huge turning point,” Amaarae said. “Before, my shows would mainly be, like, young Black kids, young African kids. There’s clearly been a shift here.”
That shift, she explained, has brought a noticeable evolution in her audience, a transformation she sees as reflective of African music’s growing resonance worldwide.
“Now, it’s much more of a global representation and melting point,” she added. “Which brings me a huge sense of pride.”
Amaarae on making history as the FIRST Ghanaian solo female act to perform at Coachella (Via RollingStone)
— It was a huge turning point because before, my shows would mainly be, like, young Black kids, young African kids. There’s clearly been a shift here. Now, it’s much more… pic.twitter.com/dCLpGeT9Cb
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) June 24, 2025
Her Coachella set wasn’t just another performance; it was a historic milestone. Amaarae became the first Ghanaian female solo act to perform at the celebrated festival, carving a space for African women at the forefront of international music conversations.
Known for her distinctive voice, experimental aesthetic, and fearless approach to sound, Amaarae has steadily built a reputation as one of the most innovative voices in Africa’s alternative music scene.
Her appearance at Coachella was not only a win for her artistry but also a powerful statement on the expanding presence of African women in global pop culture.
By remaining true to her identity and creative instincts, Amaarae continues to break boundaries, proving that African artists don’t need to conform to dominate the world stage. Instead, they can lead with authenticity, vision, and sonic boldness.