African music is not a single rhythm or a single story. It is a multifaceted pulse, both ancestral and futuristic. It is drums and synthesizers, roots and rupture. In this column, I want to share five artists who are transforming the African musical landscape from their corners of the world—some from within the continent, others from the diaspora.
Each of them represents something that deeply inspires me: a new way of expressing oneself without asking permission. Their rhythms, their lyrics, and their way of inhabiting art invite us to listen to Africa from a place of joy, resistance, tenderness, and constant invention.
This selection is not intended to be definitive, but rather an open door. A thread to pull on. A celebration. Because yes: there is good news in Africa too, and much of it sounds incredible.
1. Youssou N’Dour (Senegal)
Rhythm: Mbalax / Afro-fusion
Why include it: He is a living legend. A pioneer of mbalax, cultural ambassador for Senegal and tireless advocate for social causes. His voice has united tradition and modernity, bringing the pulse of sabar to international stages.
Focus: The connection between music, social commitment and African heritage.
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2. Angélique Kidjo (Benín)
Genre: Afrobeat / World music / Jazz
Why include her: She is an unstoppable force. A multiple Grammy winner, she blends Yoruba, funk, jazz and African tradition with fierce elegance. She is also an activist and defender of human rights and African women.
Focus: African women as creators, leaders and global role models.
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3. Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Rhythm: Bongo Flava
Why include it: An icon of East Africa, he has brought Bongo Flava to the global stage with a mix of Swahili, R&B and Afrobeat sounds. Music entrepreneur and symbol of the growth of the African music industry.
Focus: Youth, modernity and entrepreneurship from the east of the continent.
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4. Davido (Nigeria)
Rhythm: Afrobeats
Why include it: One of the leading exponents of modern Afrobeats. He represents a generation that blends African roots with global production. He has paved the way for African artists in the international charts.
Focus: The new African sound that is conquering the world without renouncing its identity.
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5. Tyla (Sudáfrica)
Genre: Amapiano / Pop
Why include it: It represents a fresh, global new wave. Her success with ‘Water’ put Amapiano on everyone's lips. Young, innovative and with a strong aesthetic presence, she is a symbol of a creative and empowered South Africa.
Focus: Youth, globalisation and a new African female aesthetic.