Category: Music Industry Insights
Analyses on the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the music industry.
Reinventing Afrobeats: The Quiet Brilliance of Odeal, Gimba, and Melvitto
The year of 2024 marked another sonic explosion in Nigeria’s music scene, as new names joined the growing constellation of Afrobeat stars. Yet beyond the noise and hits, a subtler movement is unfolding—one that challenges what Afrobeats is, and more importantly, what it can become. The story of Afrobeats is one of rebellion, rhythm, and…
Across the Algorithm: AI’s Metamorphosis of Music in 2025
In 2025, artificial intelligence no longer shadows creativity—it’s rewriting the score. Fromcomposition to performance, AI technologies are reshaping the music industry’s landscape,raising questions about authenticity, equity, and artistic evolution. Section 1: The AI Creative Axis — Tools that Compose, Assist, and Replace AI composers like Suno, AIVA, and Lemonaide now craft chord progressions, full arrangements,and…
Ayra Starr Inks Deal with Roc Nation, Marking a New Chapter in Her Afrobeats Journey
Nigerian singer and Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has officially joined the artist roster of Roc Nation, the globally renowned entertainment and management company founded by hip-hop icon and mogul JAY-Z. Speculations about the partnership gained traction after Roc Nation shared a teaser of Starr’s upcoming single, “Hot Body,” across its social media platforms last week….
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…