Category: Artist Development Programs
Providing resources and information about programs that support the development and growth of emerging music artists.
Cyani: The Rising Star Who’s Defining the Future of Afrobeats
We had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Cyani, a rising Afrobeats star hailing from Cameroon’s English-speaking region and now making waves from Montreal, Canada. Our virtual conversation—bridging time zones between our West African team in Nigeria and Cyani in Canada—offered an intimate glimpse into her artistry and journey as a diasporic…
Unveiling the Future of Presenting: A Recap of The Inaugural Presenter’s Path Event
On January 30th, 2025, The Presenter’s Path made its highly anticipated debut, marking a game-changing moment in the world of presenting. Hosted by the talented Eefoma Elentiya, the event unfolded as an unforgettable 9-hour journey at the University of Lagos’ Julius Berger Hall. This recap, as witnessed by Music Custodian’s event reporter, captures the inspiring…
BIEN REPRESENTS KENYA AT 2025 TRACE AWARDS AS EAST AFRICA SHINES ON GLOBAL STAGE
Kenyan artist Bien has been nominated for ‘Best Artist – East Africa’ at the 2025 Trace Awards, marking Kenya’s sole representation in this prestigious category. Competing against top East African artists like Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu, Bien’s nomination highlights the global influence of East African music. The event, taking place in Zanzibar from February 24-26, will celebrate African music, culture, and creativity. With several other East African artists nominated, including Diamond Platnumz and Young Lunya, the Trace Awards emphasize the region’s growing presence in the global music scene. Fans can support their favorite artists through voting.
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.