Category: Regional Soundscapes
Explore the diverse musical traditions and contemporary sounds from different regions across Africa
Francophone Renaissance: From Dakar to Abidjan, the New Age of Rap & Afropop
At Music Custodian, we’re tuning our ears to new frequencies. As part of a fresh editorial wave, we’re stepping beyond the familiar rhythms of Afrobeats to explore the vibrant, genre-blending soundscapes flourishing across West Africa — with a spotlight on the often-overlooked Francophone regions. From Dakar to Abidjan, a quiet renaissance is reshaping the sonic…
Sebuleni X Chenza: Deep House Meets Benga in One Magical Night
Sebuleni X Chenza. Deep house X Benga. Vibe X nostalgia. If I had to sum up the night of 5th September 2025 at Muze Nairobi, those are the words I’d reach for. But honestly, they barely scratch the surface of what turned out to be a cultural feast—one that stirred up music, fashion, art, and…
SEBULENI COLLECTIVE JOINS CHENZA: BENGA EDITION — A CELEBRATION OF KENYA’S ICONIC SOUND
The Sebuleni Collective has been invited by the visionary teams at Wardrobe Banter and Kilibasi Design Studio to bring its signature flair and underground spirit to the next edition of CHENZA: Benga Edition, happening on Friday, September 5th, at Muze Club, Kenrail Towers, Westlands. Chenza is an annual immersive series that bridges music, set design,…
Ata Kak Breaks 30-Year Silence: Highlife Pioneer Returns with New Album & ‘Obaa Sima’ Remaster
From cult mystery to global icon, Ghana’s elusive pop wizard is back — and he’s bringing a sonic storm with him. In a world of fast fame and fleeting hits, Ata Kak stands as a miraculous anomaly. After three decades of silence, the enigmatic Ghanaian artist is returning with a brand new album, Batakari, due…
Ebne Hakim Releases “Tsehaye,” a Stirring Ode to Longing and Hope
Rising Ethiopian artist Ebne Hakim returns with his latest single, “Tsehaye,” a poignant meditation on love, memory, and the quiet strength of hope. The track—whose title means “sun” in Amharic—is a deeply personal ballad wrapped in warm melodies and inspired by the energy and rhythms of Tigrigna traditional beats. Released during Ashenda, an annual cultural…
Nyashinski signs landmark deal with Sony Music Entertainment, marking a new dawn for East African Music
In a move that signals a seismic shift for East African music on the global stage, Nyashinski, one of Kenya’s most enduring and influential artists, has signed a groundbreaking recording deal with Sony Music. The partnership inaugurates a new chapter not only for the artist but also for the region’s burgeoning cultural export, positioning East…
Women Behind the Beat: Celebrating Female Trailblazers in African Music
Afrobeats is powered by more than just the stars on stage; the brilliant women behind the scenes also shape it.From producers and songwriters to executives and managers, women across West Africa are redefining the sound and spirit of Afrobeats with bold creativity and quiet force. As Marie Claire notes, their influence continues to shine brightly…
Blankets & Wine Makes Historic UK Debut in Bradford This September
Kenya’s most iconic music and culture festival, Blankets & Wine, is heading to the UK for the very first time. On Saturday, 6 September 2025, Bradford’s Lister Park will host the internationally renowned Pan-African festival as part of Bradford 2025’s UK City of Culture program. Even better? Entry is free. A Festival with African Roots…
Tems’ Leading Vibe Initiative Launches First-Ever In-Person Pan-African Music Program for Women in Lagos
Two-time Grammy Award-winning singer Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, is moving through 2025 with the quiet confidence of an artist who knows she’s making history in real time. Over the past month, she has been steadily expanding her footprint — not only as a performer but as a cultural architect. From launching the first…
5 Hot Kenyan Tracks You Should Have Heard By Now
Kenya’s music scene continues to push creative boundaries. This week’s standout releases blend introspection, swagger, and dance-floor-ready beats—from Bien’s viral confidence anthem to Nadia Mukami’s heartfelt reflection on motherhood, Scar Mkadinali bringing street heat, with Willy Paul, and Bensoul and Kethan adding romantic and summer vibes respectively. Each track offers something unique, capturing the mood…