Category: Artist Development Programs
Providing resources and information about programs that support the development and growth of emerging music artists.
Tems Expands Her Empire, Joins San Diego FC Ownership Ahead of MLS Debut
In a groundbreaking move that merges her musical influence with a passion for sports, Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has become a part-owner of San Diego FC (SDFC), ahead of the Major League Soccer (MLS) team’s debut later this month. Through her company, The Leading Vibe, Tems has joined the SDFC ownership group, marking an exciting step…
Cill: The Nigerian Artist Fusing Music, Culture, and Advocacy for Change
Chioma Ogbonna is a soulful Nigerian singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose music beautifully blends artistry with advocacy. As the rhythm of 2025’s African music scene unfolds gradually, trends will come and go like the wind, and there are a few precious gems that will remain steadfast in their authenticity. One of such talents is Chioma…
The Artistry of Clothing: LADY DONLI —The Art of Blending Identity and Fashion
Born Zainab Elizabeth Donli, Lady Donli is a genre-blurring force in contemporary African music. The American-born, Nigerian-bred artist has carved a lane that seamlessly fuses alternative jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and the pulse of neo-African sounds, making her one of the most compelling voices in the Alté movement. Her breakthrough moment came in 2016 with Wallflower,…
Nairobi Grooves: Mordecai Dex Headlines This Week’s Playlist Update
Nairobi’s sonic landscape is ever-evolving, and this week’s update to our Nairobi Grooves playlist captures the freshest, most dynamic sounds shaping the city’s music scene. Leading the charge as our cover star is none other than Mordecai Dex, whose latest single “Safari” cements his status as a force to watch in Kenya’s alternative and Afro-fusion…
Custodian Gems: Unearthing Africa’s Finest Sounds
OluwaMillar Leads This Week’s Custodian Gems Playlist Update At Music Custodian, we believe in discovering, amplifying, and celebrating the next wave of musical brilliance across Africa and its diaspora. Through our Custodian Gems playlist, we shine a light on emerging artists whose artistry deserves a global audience—those crafting sounds that are raw, authentic, and full…
Beyoncé ‘s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Wins Album of the Year at 2025 Grammys
At the 67th Annual Grammy Awards held on February 2, 2025, Beyoncé ‘s Cowboy Carter was honored with the Album of the Year award. This achievement marks her first win in this prestigious category and makes her the first Black woman to receive this accolade in the 21st century.
Tuphy: Tanzania’s Hidden Gem Redefining the East African Soundscape
Born on October 30, in the picturesque town of Bukoba, Tanzania, Tuphy—whose full name is Tumaini Francis has always been destined for greatness in the world of music.
Spotify Paid $10 Billion to Music Industry in 2024 And Nearly $60 Billion Since 2006
Spotify Paid $10 Billion to Music Industry in 2024 And Nearly $60 Billion Since 2006
South Africa’s Next Big SOUND: Exploring the Rise of 3-Step
During one of these sessions, I stumbled upon something that instantly stood out: 3-Step.
Njerae Named In Apple Music’s Africa Rising Class of 2025
Indie Afro-soul singer Njerae has made her mark as the second East African artist, following Nikita Kering in 2021, to represent Kenya and the region as part of Apple Music’s Africa Rising Stars.