African music enthusiasts on Spotify have a lot to look forward to in 2023, as new talent is set to emerge and capture the attention of audiences around the world.
The Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other sub-genres of African music continue to spawn fresh, talented artists year after year.
In 2022, artists like Buju, Costa Titch, and Asake made their mark and rose to prominence, earning a spot on Spotify’s Wrapped top lists.
As these artists take center stage, a new crop of rising stars is already poised for their own breakthrough in 2023.
Some of these artists have already received early success on Spotify, while others are poised to release their best work yet.
These musicians hail from countries across Africa, including Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, and offer a diverse range of styles, cultures, and perspectives.
Here are six artists to watch out for in 2023, according to Spotify data:
A 17-year-old Afrobeats starboy, first discovered on social media, whose songs evoke a teenage love story. His tracks have inspired many viral challenges and resonated with an online audience.
A young producer known for his producer tag “MAD!” and behind some of Afrobeats’ biggest songs, including Love, Nwantiti and Alcohol. He has over 100 million streams on Spotify and is primed to deliver more hits in 2023.
A dancer turned producer, known for crafting some of the biggest street pop hits of 2022. He has a huge fanbase and has backed some of the most exciting emerging talent.
A new artist from the house that produced Rema & Ayra Starr, whose eponymous EP has taken the world by storm with the viral hit Ta Ta Ta.
A mysterious singer with just one release to his name, Workaholic, an anthem extolling the virtues of perseverance and hard work. Fans are eager for new music from Brume in 2023.
An eclectic artist with a number of cult favorites and a steady following, who elevated his profile with 2021’s Before I Blow and 2022’s San Siro.
A talented singer with a dexterity for words and narratives, whose debut EP showcases his versatility in different music genres. His collaboration with Victony, True Love, is already a fan favorite.