2024 has proven to be a game-changing year for African music, with genres like Afrobeats and Amapiano taking centre stage across Sub-Saharan Africa.
These genres have not only driven streaming trends but also sparked a broader cultural conversation, solidifying African artists’ influence on the global music scene.
Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, emphasized the significant role of female artists in shaping this year’s musical landscape.
She noted, “This year has been marked by the remarkable achievements of boundary-breaking women who champion a more inclusive and diverse future for African music.”
Nigerian Female Artists Dominate the Charts
Leading the charge in 2024 is Grammy-nominated Ayra Starr, who has emerged as the most streamed female artist in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. Her album The Year I Turned 21, combined with a global tour and bold public appearances, has solidified her place at the forefront of African music. Starr’s fusion of Afropop and R&B continues to captivate fans, making her a global sensation.
Not far behind is Tems, a powerhouse known for her deep, soulful voice. Tems secured the second spot in both Nigeria and Ghana, while claiming fourth place in Kenya.
Her contributions to Afrobeats, alongside collaborations with global superstars like Rihanna and Beyoncé, have amplified her presence worldwide.
Ghana’s Gyakie, known for her sultry blend of Afropop and R&B, made a strong impact by securing the fourth spot among the most streamed artists in Ghana.
Women Taking the Global Stage
Beyond Africa, female artists have been breaking barriers and taking Afrobeats to international heights. Tems continues to lead the charge, with performances at notable global events like the prestigious North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands. Her song Love Me Jeje earned a place in Rolling Stone’s Top 100 Songs of 2024.
Pop sensation Tyla, hailing from South Africa, has also captured the world’s attention, clinching multiple awards at the 2024 BET Awards and earning three nominations at the 2024 MTV EMAs.
Her album TYLA reached number one in countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, and Jamaica, further elevating her status as a global star.
Ayra Starr and Tems are further cementing their international influence. Ayra Starr’s The Year I Turned 21 surpassed 2 million streams globally, while Tems’ album Born in the Wild amassed over 200,000 streams in Tokyo alone, illustrating their growing global appeal.
Spotify’s EQUAL Programme: Amplifying Women’s Voices
Spotify’s EQUAL program has played a crucial role in promoting female talent across the music industry. Since its inception, the initiative has supported over 200 ambassadors, creating platforms for women’s voices to be heard. Through dedicated playlists and promotions, EQUAL aims to elevate the representation of women in music, ensuring they have a prominent place in shaping the industry’s future.
Top Female Artists by Country on Spotify in 2024
As streaming continues to dominate the music industry, African female artists are shining in their respective countries. Below is a breakdown of the top female artists in select African nations:
| Nigeria | Ghana | Kenya | South Africa |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Ayra Starr | 1. Ayra Starr | 1. Ayra Starr | 1. Taylor Swift |
| 2. Tems | 2. Tems | 2. SZA | 2. Billie Eilish |
| 3. Qing Madi | 3. SZA | 3. Rihanna | 3. SZA |
| 4. Billie Eilish | 4. Gyakie | 4. Tems | 4. Rihanna |
| 5. SZA | 5. Rihanna | 5. Billie Eilish | 5. Beyonce |
| 6. Tiwa Savage | 6. Adele | 6. Nicki Minaj | 6. Nkosazana Daughter |
| 7. Bloody Civilian | 7. Qing Madi | 7. Taylor Swift | 7. Babalwa M |
| 8. Rihanna | 8. Tiwa Savage | 8. Ariana Grande | 8. Ariana Grande |
| 9. Simi | 9. Nicki Minaj | 9. Doja Cat | 9. Summer Walker |
| 10. FAVE | 10. Beyonce | 10. Beyonce | 10. Nicki Minaj |
Looking Ahead
With 2024 being a year of unprecedented growth for African women in music, the influence of artists like Ayra Starr, Tems, Gyakie, and Tyla is only expected to rise. As Afrobeats and Amapiano continue to conquer global charts, these artists are not only shaping the future of African music but also setting the stage for more women to break into the global music scene.