Spotify’s RADAR program is dedicated to bringing rising talent to the forefront globally, showcasing what is next in sound, and lifting artists by helping them expand their global reach on their path to superstardom.
The past few years have been a clear testament to the growth of African music globally, and this year, Spotify’s RADAR Africa program is shining a spotlight on the continent’s rising stars.
Joining the ranks of previous RADAR Alumni such as Ayra Starr, Victony, BNXN, and Bloody Civilian from Nigeria, Shallipopi is the latest addition to the RADAR Africa list. Hailing from Eswatini, Manana who is South-African based follows in the footsteps of luminaries like Tyla and DBN Gogo, representing his nation’s thriving music scene.
Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka’s inclusion underscores the program’s commitment to showcasing the diverse talents that make the African continent proud through their art, following in the footsteps of fellow East African RADAR Alumni Xenia Manasseh from Kenya, with both representing the region.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa comments
“This cohort represents some of the continent’s most promising artists. As African artists continue to rise globally, Spotify is excited to continue playing its part in the rise and discovery of local artists, showcasing their diverse talents to the world.”
Shallipopi, popularly called “Presido De La Pluto” by his fans, gained popularity through viral freestyles, offering a fresh perspective on street culture and influencing street lingo through his music. Hailing from the culturally rich Benin City in Edo State, Nigeria, Shallipopi proudly showcases his roots on tracks like “Obapluto,” one of his top five most-listened to songs on Spotify, following “Ex Convict“.
His track “Cast” holds the top spot as his most-streamed song, while his album “Shakespopi,” which has amassed over 13 million streams since its release, further highlights how he adeptly fuses tradition with modernity, and seamlessly blends his cultural heritage with contemporary elements.
Shallipopi’s reach continues to grow, with over 1.9 million additions to playlists in the last 12 months and a global audience led by Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ghana, and South Africa over the last 28 days.
The street-loved artist is embraced by Gen Z’s with 52% of his listeners aged 18-27 and millennials with 19% at 28-34. He also commands a larger male following at 66% compared to female following at 31% over the last 28 days.
Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka burst onto the scene with his soulful 2020 debut “Tomorrow,” captivating listeners across Africa and globally, and amassing a fervent following. Nigeria stands as the top country streaming his music the most on Spotify over the last 28 days, a testament to the viral success of his hit “NANA“, also his most-streamed song.
Nana remix featuring African superstars Joeboy , King Promise and Bien further solidifies his popularity, ranking among Baraka’s top three most-listened tracks, trailing closely behind his other smash hit “Dalilah.”
While Nigeria leads the charge, Baraka’s cross-cultural resonance is evident as Kenya, the United States, the United Kingdom, and his native country Uganda follow among his top five streaming countries, underscoring the singer’s ability to craft melodies that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.
His core Spotify audience over the last 28 days spans Gen Z and millennials, with 53% aged 18-27 and 25% aged 28-34, while his male listenership at 59% outpaces females at 38%, further highlighting his capacity to captivate audiences across genders.
With over 195k playlist adds on Spotify in the last 12 months, his ever-growing fanbase is a true showcase to the power of cross-cultural relevance and the boundless possibilities of artistic collaboration.
Hailing from eSwatini, Manana is a multi-talented singer, producer, and Grammy-winning songwriter renowned for his lush melodies and jazzy R&B production.
His soulful performances and masterful songwriting prowess, include credits with Burna Boy, Jon Vinyl, Sauti Sol, and the legendary Usher, which helped catapult him to prominence.
Manana’s global appeal is evident as South Africa, the United States, Nigeria, Kenya, and the United Kingdom emerge as the top five countries streaming his music over the last 28 days.
He has garnered over 144k playlist adds in the past 12 months and with an audience comprising 50% male listeners and 43% female listeners.
His music resonates strongly with the younger demographic aged 18-27 making up 58% of his total streams and 23% aged 28-34, over the last 28 days. Additionally, one of his most streamed tracks on Spotify “Distance – Acoustic” features his exceptional songwriting talent.
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.
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