In the “big” year 2024, our world isn’t exactly an enigmatic utopia characterized by flying automobiles, such as predicted in vintage sci-fi movies, just yet. However, with each passing day, it moves at a fascinating pace, such that indicates that nothing is the same as it once was and the times are changing. We are in the future and Everything from technology to politics, and pop culture is feeling the shift.
For instance, the array of global opportunities now bestowed upon African contemporary music and its consequent inclusivity regarding gender marginalization.
Several decades ago, these were seemingly unrealistic fantasies. But not anymore, not in big 2024.
In “big” 2024, women in contemporary African music settings are pushing great strides both home and abroad, propelling African music in the same light as their male counterparts.
Furthermore, ‘Afrobeats to the World’ has seen the rise of notable female African singers such as Nigeria’s Ayra Starr (Grammy nominee), Cameroon’s Libianca (Bet winner), Nigeria’s Tems (Grammy winner), Ghana’s Amaarae (MTV Europe nominee), and South Africa’s Tyla (Grammy winner).
The applaudable rise of these successful female African singers is nothing short of inspirational, and in the grand scheme of things, an outright glimpse of the musical talent that abounds in Africa, especially in this context, female singers.
Here are five promising African female singers that you should look out for.
Darkua:
Ghanaian fast-rising singer, Darkua has been featured on almost everything from Apple Music, to Boomplay, to Spotify and Native Mag. The fusion artist is promising, with an alluring appeal that fits into her R&B and soft pop markings. With over 100k streams across all credits, she is an asset of value.
songs to get familiar with: Echo (2023), Say My Name (2024).
Amaeya:
Hailed by popular female counterpart, Ayra Starr, as the next big thing, Amaeya ( Ah-May-Ya), is a breath of fresh air. The 23-year-old’s music is characterized by breathtaking vocals and thoughtful songwriting. Amaeya is a star on the rise and one to watch out for.
songs to get familiar with: On My Own (2023), Delusion (2024).
Maya Amolo:
Maya Amolo is an R&B crooner from Eastern Africa, Kenya. Her buttery voice tells in-depth tales of love, sensual passion, and heartbreaks. Maya’s career kicked off in 2020 and has since been on increasing highs.
The emerging Kenyan superstar has worked on three musical projects so far- ‘Asali Sweeter’ (full-length album 2023) ‘Asali’ (full-length album 2022), and ‘Leave Me At The Pregame'( debut Ep 2020).
Songs to get familiar with: Can’t Get Enough ( 2022), and Where Ya Been- A Colors Show (2024).
Mahdey:
Bred in Ibadan, Nigeria, Anuoluwapo ‘Mahdey’ Omitowoju always had the conviction of her abilities and had decided to take music seriously from her early teen years. Mahdey’s songs of self-discovery, empowerment, and love delve beyond mere entertainment, and is broadly aimed at leaving a mark in the burgeoning music industry.
Songs to get familiar with: Somebody (2023), PartyDoor (2024).
Keamo:
South African singer, songwriter, and recording artist, Keamo explores jazzy elements, R&B, and pop intertwined with brilliant pen game to further encapsulate her genius. Keamo is promising to say the least. In a league of her own.
Songs to get familiar with: Unfold Me (2023), and Falling (2024).
Ultimately, this article which is also coincidental with International Women’s Month, is aimed at spotlighting these few outstanding female singers who have stood out from the crop and are gearing up to be the future of African music, walking in the footsteps of their thriving female counterparts.
