Category: Music Industry Insights
Analyses on the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the music industry.
Angélique Kidjo Becomes First African Artist with Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Beninese-French musical powerhouse Angélique Kidjo has secured her place in history, becoming the first African musician ever selected for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement came via the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce during a July 2 press briefing, placing her alongside luminaries like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Shaquille O’Neal, Deepika Padukone,…
Afrobeats in 2025: Songs Defining the Year So Far
Afrobeats is dancing in daring directions this year, fluid, fearless, and full of fire. The genre, a proud pulse of African creativity, continues to expand its orbit, and the top trending Afrobeats songs of 2025 are proof of its undeniable magnetism and evolving genius. In recent years, the culture has wrestled with internal discourse, questions…
Fela Kuti ’s Zombie Inducted Into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame 2025
In a landmark moment for African music history, the Recording Academy has officially inducted Fela Kuti ’s seminal 1977 album Zombie into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, class of 2025. This honor solidifies Fela’s legacy as one of the most influential and uncompromising voices in global music, marking a proud and powerful chapter in the…
Wizkid Premieres ‘Long Live Lagos’ Documentary at Tribeca Film Festival Is A Powerful Ode to Home and Heritage
The Tribeca Film Festival witnessed a historic moment in African music and cinema as Nigerian global superstar Wizkid premiered his highly anticipated documentary, Long Live Lagos, on June 6, 2025. Screened in the Spotlight+ section under the “Expressions of Black Freedom” theme, the film brought Afrobeats and African storytelling to the heart of New York…
FIFA Taps Tems, J Balvin, and Doja Cat for Historic Halftime Show at 2025 Club World Cup Final
In a landmark moment for global music and sport, FIFA has announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Global Citizen for the inaugural halftime show at a FIFA competition. The historic performance will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, during the FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, New York–New Jersey, with Tems, J Balvin,…
The BET Awards 2025: A Monumental Celebration of Black Culture and Excellence
The 25th Annual BET Awards, held on June 9, 2025, at the iconic Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, delivered one of the most memorable nights in entertainment history. Titled “Culture’s Biggest Night,” the ceremony marked a quarter-century of Black excellence, legacy, and unstoppable talent. Hosted by the irrepressible Kevin Hart, the show was an electrifying…
How the African Music Industry Can Drive Creative Climate Action and Sustainable Innovation
The African music industry has long been a powerful force for social change, with artists using their platforms to address pressing issues. In recent years, climate action has emerged as a central theme in the creative expressions of many musicians. From the revolutionary sounds of Fela Kuti to the contemporary advocacy of artists like Cill…
Here Are the 2025 American Music Awards Winners: A Night of Power, Prestige & Black Excellence
The 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas and hosted by Jennifer Lopez, celebrated a diverse array of musical talents. Billie Eilish emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing seven awards, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song…
Temi Adeniji Makes Billboard’s 2025 Global Power Players List
Temi Adeniji, Managing Director of Warner Music Africa (WMA), has once again earned a spot on Billboard’s prestigious Global Power Players list for 2025, marking her second consecutive year in the spotlight. This recognition underscores another year of dynamic leadership and cultural influence, as Adeniji continues to drive Warner Music’s strategic expansion and impact across…
The 17th Annual Headies Awards Celebrate African Music’s Global Rise and Industry Milestone
Davido Named Artist of the Year and Digital Artist of the Year, Travis Scott Takes Home International Artist Award, and Tems Wins Best Recording at the 17th Annual Headies Awards. Relive the night’s unforgettable highlights and the stars who shone the brightest! On the evening of April 27, 2025, the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria…