Entertainment
Nigerian Singer Ayra Starr Shines As Spotify’s EQUAL Ambassador
Nigerian Afrobeats luminary Ayra Starr, celebrated for her chart-topping hits such as “Rush,” “Sability,” and “Rhythm & Blues,” recently stepped into the limelight as the focal point of Spotify’s esteemed EQUAL Africa and EQUAL Global initiative throughout May.
This recognition places her alongside the illustrious Tiwa Savage, solidifying her status as one of Africa’s foremost musical talents to garner both regional and global acclaim.
In the words of Monica Kemoli-Savanne, Spotify’s Senior Artist & Label Partnerships Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, this initiative resonates with the platform’s unwavering commitment to championing women within the music industry, fostering an environment of inclusivity and empowerment. Ayra Starr’s ascendancy on the global stage serves as a poignant testament to Africa’s rich reservoir of talent, underscoring the transformative power of providing a platform for burgeoning artists.
Spotify’s EQUAL program has emerged as a catalyst for change, hosting 15 impactful activations and catalyzing over 14.8 million artist discoveries through its curated playlists in the preceding year alone. Notably, EQUAL artists received a staggering 11,800 editorial playlist additions, indicative of the program’s far-reaching influence and ability to amplify underrepresented voices.
Ayra Starr, whose latest offering “Commas” has already amassed a staggering 35 million streams on Spotify since its February release, reflects on her distinctive musical style, attributing her success to her ability to carve out a distinctive niche within the industry. Her selection as Spotify’s EQUAL artist embodies a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility, as she endeavors to represent not only women in Afrobeats but African women at large on the global stage.
In her own words, Ayra Starr articulates the significance of her ambassadorship, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female artists within the genre. As the EQUAL program continues to champion diversity and inclusivity, Ayra Starr stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape, igniting a wave of empowerment and artistic innovation for generations to come.
Entertainment
Fave Takes the Spotlight As Spotify’s Equal Africa Artist For November
Spotify has named Nigerian music sensation FAVE as its EQUAL Africa Artist of the Month for November 2024.
With her soulful voice, captivating lyrics, and unique rhythmic style, FAVE has become one of Nigeria’s most influential musical figures, gaining international recognition.
FAVE’s breakthrough came in 2020 with the viral hit “N.B.U.,” followed by her debut EP Riddim 5. She has since collaborated with top Nigerian artists like Olamide, Simi, Phyno, and Davido. Notably, her feature on Davido’s “Kante” from the Timeless album was one of Spotify’s most-streamed tracks in Nigeria in 2023.
Reflecting on her journey, FAVE shared, “Being a woman in the music industry can be challenging, but it’s made me more determined. The EQUAL program is vital because it amplifies women’s voices and promotes balance in the industry.”
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, praised FAVE’s global appeal, saying, “FAVE represents the incredible talent coming out of Africa, and we’re proud to celebrate her as part of the EQUAL Africa program. She’s an inspiration for future artists.”
She recently released a new track titled Dutty Love on November 7.
Entertainment
Kenyan Music Producer DTX Encourages Listeners To Get ‘High’ On Life’s Wins With New Single
Kenyan music producer and songwriter DTX is set to make waves with the release of his newest single, High.
Known for his dynamic production style that seamlessly blends a wide array of genres—including pop, electronic, hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, afrobeat, trap, drill, dubstep, and EDM—DTX continues to push boundaries in Kenya’s music scene. This versatility is on full display in High, a track that promises to resonate with music lovers everywhere.
High is an energizing, celebratory track that encapsulates the pure joy of life’s victories. Whether it’s a milestone, a special moment, or a burst of confidence, the song is a call to revel in life’s highs, whatever they may be. Through this single, DTX creates a universal message aimed at inspiring happiness and self-assurance across all walks of life.
“I made this track so people can embrace and cherish their highs, whatever form they take,” says DTX. “Whether it’s love, success, career achievements, or personal growth, I want listeners to celebrate themselves and feel proud.”
DTX has earned acclaim for producing some of Kenya’s most beloved tracks, including Sauti Sol’s Rhumba Japani, Savara’s Balance, and Nyashinski’s Silencer. His unique touch and dedication to innovation have cemented his reputation as one of Kenya’s leading music producers.
With High, DTX invites fans to reflect on their accomplishments, big or small, and add a soundtrack to their personal triumphs. The track is a reminder to take a moment, let loose, and enjoy life’s special moments with unbridled joy.
Entertainment
Pop Star Ariana Grande Slows Down Music To Embrace Musical Theatre Roots
Ariana Grande recently shared her plans to slow down her music career, a move she knows might surprise her fans.
Speaking on the ‘Las Culturistas’ podcast, the 31-year-old pop star revealed how playing Glinda the Good Witch in the upcoming Wicked film adaptation has reignited her love for musical theatre. While she promised not to abandon music entirely, Grande explained she no longer envisions keeping up her intense pop music pace.
“It is my heart,” she said, adding, “I’m always going to make music and perform, but not at the rate I have been for the past 10 years.”
Grande, whose career began with the Broadway musical 13 at age 15, reflected on the joy of returning to her roots. “Reconnecting with this part of myself and finding roles to use my comedy and musical theatre background has been healing,” she shared, emphasizing the emotional importance of this shift.
The former Victorious star acknowledged the mixed reactions to her casting as Glinda, admitting on the ‘Sentimental Man’ podcast that she felt the need to prove herself. “It has to be earned,” she said, highlighting the training she undertook to prepare.
Grande aims to balance her love for theatre with continued work in music—at a pace that feels more sustainable for her future.
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