Top 20 Most Famous African Musicians, guess who tops the list (2023)

Considering the most famous African musicians is a way of acknowledging talent and how much some musicians have been able to showcase African music to the world. Although many of these musicians have contributed to the music industry in different ways, others are considered to be the best in various genres such as juju, highlife, fuji, kizomba, makossa, afro-pop, hip-hop, R&B and rock music.

Among Africa's best musicians are those who have left their names permanently in the sands of time, such as Fela Kuti, Mariam Makeba, Ali Farka Toure and Lucky Dube. However, this article focuses on music acts that still exist and make music. The best criteria for selecting the best are how these African stars push boundaries, win prestigious awards, commercial success, critical acclaim and consistency over time.

20 famous and best African musicians

20. Oumou Sangare (Malisch)

• Alter:55 years old
• The year started:1973
• record label:circle of the world

Oumou Sangarè is an artist of Malian descent who mixes great voice, lyrics, rhythm and flow, yet finds a way to communicate through music. This would set her apart from the start when her fame began in 1973 at the age of 5. At 16 she formed a music group and later released her first album, Moussolou,which led to several years of successful recording.

Her music focuses primarily on love, marriage and her voice for women through music. However, she continues to expand her music to different countries and performs at high venues and events. Currently, the 1968 Bamako-born singer has shared the mic with Nigeria's Femi Kuti, Senegal's Baaba Maal and Haiti's Boukman Eksperyancs, to name a few.

The best works of Sangarè

• Acoustically(2020)
• Mogoja(2017)
• Seya(2009)
• Umou(2004)
• Worotan(1996)
• my sira(1993)
• Mussoulou(1989)

Achievements/Awards by Sangare

• WOMEX Artist Award for her contribution and advocacy for women's rights (2017)
• Grammy Award for Best Pop Collaboration (2011)
• Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary World Music Album (2010)
• IMC-UNESCO International Music Prize in der Kategorie Interpret (2001)
• European Award for "World Music Album of the Year" (Ko Sira, 1993)

19.Awilo Longomba (Congolese)

• Alter:55 years old
• record label:Jimmy's Production, CHM Supersound, Awillo Beats

As one of the most important African musicians of recent times, Awilo Longombo captured the hearts of many in the Congo and beyond with his Makossa music. He began his career in the entertainment industry as a drummer with Vivia la Musica and Nouvelle Gènération. However, in 1995 he decided to play something other than drums, which led to the release of his first albumfire cotton.

He grew in fame and popularity, becoming the darling of many in his native Congo and in African countries including Nigeria. In addition, he was able to take his music beyond the shores of Africa to countries such as Belgium, France, Great Britain and the United States.

Some of Awilo's best works

• bejeweled(2019)
• Karolina(2006)
• Mondongo (Album,2003)
• Coupe Bibamba(2001)
• crossing intersection(2000)
• Hot Cotton (1995)

Notable achievements of the singer

• Bester Soukous - Entertainer (2009)
• Judged Special Awards for Kafou Kafou, KORA Awards (2001)
• Best Central African Artist Award for the album "Moto Pamba", All Africa Music Awards (1997)
• Best Central Africa Artist Awards for the album "Moto Pamba" KORA Awards (1996)

18.Fally Ipupa - Congolese

• Alter:45 years old
• The year started:1999
• record label:A Z, Capitol Records, Elektra Records, Obouo Productions, F’Victeam Entertainment

Fally Ipupa is a Congolese singer, dancer, songwriter and record producer who released his debut album in 2006. The album, titled Droit Chemin, has sold over 100,000 copies since its release. He was previously involved in a few music groups before Koffi Olomide chanced upon him and enrolled him in his music group, the Latin Quarter.

Best Works

• control(2018)
• Tokio(2017)
• Try Power Song(2013)
• Arsenal of beautiful melodies(2009)
• Right way(2006)

Achievements/Awards

• Best Video for the Song "Eloko Oyo" and Best French Artist, AFRIMA Awards (2017)
• Best Album, Best Video and Best Song at the Ndule Awards (2017)
• Best Artist Central Africa, AFRIMA Awards (2014)
• Best African Artist, True Urban Music Awards (2013)
• MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Video for the song Sexy Dance (2010)

17.Slapdee (Sambisch)

• Alter:35 years old
• However Name:Mwila Musonda
• The year started:2006
• record label:XYZ Entertainment, Kalandayanya Music Promotions

Slapdee, born in 1987, has many responsibilities in music, record production and business. Nonetheless, he is best known for being in the music industry. He debuted professionally in music in 2006 and has released songs such asLet's get into thatin the earliest period of his career. He then released more songs and albums, includingTrue story, black na white,I know that,etc.

His musical achievements led to worldwide fame which resulted in him becoming the most searched Zambian musician on Google in 2017. He would also reach out his hand to make a difference, using his estates as a wealthy and famous musician to support orphanages and children's hospitals in his country. This would lead to his appearance on CNN, African Voices CHANGEMAKERS.

Great songs and albums by Slapdee

• mother tongueFt. Dave Sambia (2020)
• we woke up(2020)
• stand wire(2020)
• Forget you(2019)
• No wonder(2017)
• Paya One(2015)

Slapdee's most notable awards

• Best Hip Hop Song at Sun Fm Kwacha Music Awards (2017)
• Best Hip-Hop/Rap Album at the Zambia Music Awards (2014)
• Best Mainstream Album at the Zambia Music Awards (2014)
• Best Mainstream Male Album at the Zambia Music Awards (2014)
• Song of the Year at the Zambia Music Awards (2013)
• Best Hip-Hop Album at the Zambia Music Awards (2013)
• Best Male Album at the Zambia Music Awards (2013)
• Best Hip Hop Artist at Ngoma Music Awards (2009)

16. Onyeka Onwenu (nigerianisch)

• Alter:71 years old
• The year started:1981
• record label:EMI Records, Ayollo

Your Highnessis a personality with many fronts. Perhaps this explains why the Nigerian press calls her an 'elegant stallion'. The songwriter and singer burst into the limelight in the '80s while working as a broadcaster for NTA.

She continues to focus on the metier, shifting from secular to gospel music. Lately she has been writing and singing about health issues (HIV/AIDS), respect for women's rights, the plight of children, peace and living together.

Onyeka Onwenus beste Werke

• You and me(1991)
• One Love(1991)
• Wait for me & King Sunny Ade(1989)
• In the morning light(Album, 1984)
• Allow(1984)
• for your love(Album, 1981)

Achievements/Awards

• Nigerian Woman of Distinction Award commemorating 50th Anniversary of Nigerian Independence (2010)
• National Council for Arts and Culture Awards for her contributions to music and culture governance (2009)
• Nigeria National Award for Member of the Federal Republic (2003)
• Real Nigerian award

15.Koffi Olomide - Congolese

• Alter:62 years old
• record label:Sonodisc, Le Monde des Artistes, MRA Entertainment Group, Editions Kaluila, Jimmy’s Production, Sterns, Diego Music, Tamari

Koffi Olomide, considered a rhumbo master, is a soukous musician. He began his music career as a composer and songwriter, then as a singer and lead singer with Papa Wemba's music band Viva la Musica. While he was with the band, the name Olomide popped up. After impressing Papa Wemba with a song he had written, Papa Wemba called him the ideal man.

This was rendered as Olomide. In 1983 he recorded his first album Ngouda. In 1986 he left the band Viva la Musica to form his band Quartier Latin International. In the following years he produced numerous albums that are well over 30 and sold millions of copies. Consequently, this has built a huge following for him.

Selected best songs byKoffi Olomide

• 13. Apostle(2015)
• Abracadabra(2012)
• matter of state(2003)
• matter of state(2003)
• Force DeFrappe(2000)
• Ultimatum(1997)
• noblesse oblige(1993)
• she and I(1989)
• Diva(1986)
• Celya-Ba(1985)
• Ngounda(1983)

Achievements/Awards

• African Music Awards for Best Male Singer/Best Video Clip (1992)
• African Music Award for Best African Artist (1998)
• Best African Artist Award (1998)
• Kora Awards (2002 & 2003)
• Kora Award for Best African Artist of the Decade

14. Diamond Platnumz (Tanzanian)

• Alter:33 years old
• However Name:Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack
• The year started:2006
• record label:WCB Wasafi, Warner Bros

Diamondmixes energy and unique style to show the world the music of Africa. He became one of the top earners in Tanzania and Africa. His career started in 2006 when he was 17 years old. Years later, he began to achieve record successes that know no borders and penetrate countries.

He has collaborated with artists from different countries and has made a name for himself on stage. One of the highlights of his career is Diamond's ability to garner attention with his songs, becoming the first African-based artist900 million viewson Youtube.

Some of Diamond Platnumz's greatest hits

• fine(2022)
• Nanjaze(2021)
• AndFt. Fokalistisch, Jazz Rods & Ntosh Gazi (2021)
• WowFt Koffi Olomide (2020) Download, listen and watch for free Ft Koffi Olomide (2020)
• YoRmx Ft. Innos‘ B (2019)
• Advicefeet Fally Ipupa A Boy From Tandale (Album, 2018)
• Nana(2018)
• Where will I spank him?(2018)
• My number one(2014)
• tell him(2010)

Notable achievements by Diamond

• 3x Channel O Music Video Awards for Most Talented Newcomer; Most Gifted East; and Most Gifted Afro-Pop (2014)
• 7x HiPipo Music Awards (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)
• Future Africa for POrize ERntertainment (2014)
• 2x MTV Europe Music Awards/Worldwide Act Africa/India for Best African Act and Worldwide Act (Africa/India (2015)
• MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Live Act (2015)
• People's Choice Awards, Favorite Male Video (2014)
• AFRIMA, Bester Live-Act (2019)

13. Rocky Dawuni (Ghanaisch)

• Alter:54 years old
• Label:Aquarian Records, Cumbancha

Rocky Dawuni was born on January 22, 1969. He discovered Bob Marley, became interested in reggae and soon became one of the most famous African musicians. The singer-songwriter is a versatile musician, creating music in a variety of genres including afrobeat, highlife and soul.

One of the most important things about Dawuni's music is how he incorporates social activism in Ghana, Africa and beyond. He also uses music to draw attention to his culture. He currently has his songs in movies, TV shows and video games, such as the American film,fistfight(2017); TV seriesDexter(2006-2013) andIS(1994-2009); and video games that contain2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil(2014),The Sims 2: Castaways(2008).

Some of the best Rocky Dawuni songs and albums

• Nice people(2020)
• Master arise(2019)
• Elevation(2019)
• turn it up(2019)
• Brand in(2019)
• Shine a light(2017)
• African reggae fever(2010)
• Walk the conversation(2010)
• wake up the city(2005)

Some of Dawuni's key career highlights

• Grammy Nomination for Best Global Music Album (2022)
• He is thefirst Ghanaian to be nominatedfor a Grammy after the release of thebranches of the same tressAlbums (2021)
• He is the second African to be nominated for Best Reggae Album at the Grammys
• Best African Artist at the World Music Awards (2021)

12. Khaled (Algerian)

• Alter:63 years old
• Full name:Khaled Hadj Ibrahim
• The year started:1974
• record companies:Universal Records, Ark 21 Records

Many people may not refer to Khaled Hadj Ibrahim as easily as they would "Khaled". This is because the name Khaled seems to have silenced his other names as he uses the former as his stage name. Born in 1960, he is one of the most popular "Rai" singers worldwide and one of the most celebrated African musicians.

Rai is a type of folk music that fuses French, Arabic, Spanish and African music. Khaled is more popular in France, with his singles "Didi" and "Aicha" topping the charts. He remains one of the best-selling African artists of all time. He is also one of the best-selling Arab artists with a record of around 80 million sold-out albums.

Selected best works by Khaled

• Maghreb Gang Ft. French Montana, Farid Bang(2019)
• So life is(2012)
• The day will come(1997)
• The doll that says no(1997)
• Aisha(1996)
• Alex Taadi(1993)
• I have(1992)
• El Arbi(1992)

Some achievements ofKhaled

• Big Apple Music Awards for Best Arabic Artist Selling in the United States (2010)
• Listed by NPR as one of 50 Great Voices (2010)
• MGM Awards, Best Selling Arabic Album in History (2009)
• R3 Awards BBC Awards for World Music (2005)
• Grammy Jam Awards (2004)
• The 100 Greatest Albums of the 20th Century (1989)
• World Music Awards for Song of the Year (1997)
• African Grammys Best North African Female Singer Kora Awards (1997)

11. Femi Kuti (nigerianisch)

• Alter:61 years old
• The year started:1978
• record label:Partisan Records, MCA und Red Hot Organization

geb. Olufela Olufemi Anikulapo That,factory tois the first son of legendary Afrobeat musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti and grandson of Fumilayo Ransome-Kuti. His father was a strong pull-and-push factor in his music career. It is no wonder, then, that his passion for music tends to expose social ills and vices in Nigeria in order to draw attention to them and create a need for change. In a word, his music is usually revolutionary.

His efforts and the quality of the music he produces, combined with his passion and the powerful messages he expresses, earn him the status of one of the guiding stars in the African entertainment industry. Aside from being a four-time Grammy nominee, his album isfight to winis hailed as the most prominent neo-Afrobeat of the 21st century. Its popularity goes beyond the borders of Africa.

Venues where he has performed include the Moers Festival in Germany and the Festival d'Angouleme in France. But there is more; His voice was used in a video game, Grand Theft Auto. Femi Kuti has collaborated with foreign artists such as Jaguar Wright, Yasiin Bey and Lonnie Jaman Shuka Rashid with the alias Common. He has also collaborated with Nigerian artists such as M I, Sound Sultan and Tuface.

Femi's most popular songs

• How we fight every day(2020)
• show of shame(2020)
• stop the hate(2020)
• One people, one world(2018)
• Evil people(2018)
• You are Bobo(2010)
• Pretty much(2004)
• Shotan(2004)
• can't buy me(2004)
• Give your best(2001)
• live for today(1995)
• Excuse me(1998)
• Beng Beng Beng(1998)
• truth does not die(1998)

Achievements/Awards

• Grammy Awards nominations for World Music Awards (2003, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2022)
• Inducted into the Headies Hall of Fame, 2012
• 5x Grammy Award in der Kategorie Best World Music Album (2002, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2022)

10. Yemi Alade (Nigerian)

• Alter:66 years old
• The year started:2005
• record label:Effyzzie Music Group, Universal Music Africa

Yemi Aladeis considered one of the richest and most successful music stars in Africa. She has also become one of the most famous African musicians. Yemi Alade traces her career back to 2005 when she competed in and won the first season of The Peak Talent Show.

It was only a matter of time before she became the first woman to win the MTV African Music Awards (2015). She would also break another record when she won the same award the following year. Currently, the Nigerian singer, born in Abia State in 1989, has collaborated with artists inside and outside Africa, including Angelique Kidjo, Kritzbeatz and Beyonce.

The best Yemi Alade songs and albums

• empress(2020)
• woman of steel(Album, 2019)
• Oh my GodRmx Ft. Rick Ross (2019)
• Mother Africa(The Diary of an African Woman (Album, 2016)
• on God(2016)
• Africa(2016)
• king of queens(Album, 2015)
• Johnny(2014)
• Tangerines(2014)
• Kiss(2014)

Yemi's Notable Achievements

• She was the second Nigerian and the country's first singer to reach 100 million views with just one song on YouTube
• She broke history by becoming the first artist in Africa to have the most viewed music video in a song
• 4x The Headies Awards für Hip Hop World Revelation of the Year (2015), Best Performer (2017, 2018, 2019)
• Artist of the Year at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards (2015)
• Independent Music Awards (2016)
• 2x MTV African Music Awards for Best Female (2015, 2016)
• 2x All Africa Music Awards for Best Female Artist (2018); Best Woman in West Africa (2015)

9. Sarkody (Ghanaian)

• Alter:34 years old
• However Name:Michael Owusu Addo
• The year started:2005
• record label:Sarkcess Music, Duncwills Entertainment (formerly)

When it comes to Ghanaians pioneering in music, Sakordie fits right in. Born in Tema, he hasn't just stopped in Ghana but has carved his name across continents as one of Africa's biggest rappers.

Interestingly, Sakordie's music incorporates English and his native language, Twi. The musician has several styles in the genres of hip hop, hiplife and afrobeat. This led to him being the first to win BET's Best International Flow Artist award in 2019 and maintaining his position as the Most Awarded African Rapper.

Some of Sarkodie's greatest hits

• rollies and cigars(2021)
• Adonis (2021)
• Oofeetso(2019)
• Highest(Album, 2017)
• overdose(2017)
• who man(2017)
• Sarcology(2014)
• Sark-Nation(2014)
• When I grow up(2012)

awards

• International Reggae and World Music Awards for Best Virtual Showcase/Concert (2021)
• African Entertainment Awards USA for Best Hip Hop Artist (2019)
• He was ranked #1 in The 10 Ghanaian Rappers of All Time (2013).
• Daf BAMA Awards Best African Act (2017)
• EMY Bester Entertainer (2016)
• MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Hip Hop (2014)
• Best International Act: Africa (2012, 2019)
• 5x The Headies Awards for Best African Artist (2013, 2016)
• African Artist of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015)

8. Tubaba (nigerianisch)

• Alter:47 years old
• However Name:Unschuldiger Ujah Idibia
• The year started:1994
• record label:Hypertek Digital, Knowledge Music (formerly)

Innocent Idibia began his career in 1994 asTuface. He then became a band member of DisbandedPlantashun Boiz,and before long he became a dynamic singer who could make tons of music and make a huge fortune out of it. In Nigeria, he remains one of the most enduring performers of all time, having enjoyed decades of success throughout his career.

He is best known for his songAfrican queenwhich helped make him one of the most famous African musicians. Tubaba, also regarded as one of themost beautiful men in nigeria, also became a regular, wowing crowds, graced stages in countries and won awards.

Best works of Tubaba

• Smile(2022)
• raindrops(2017)
• The Ascension(Album, 2014)
• Implikation(2008)
• To be there(2008)
• grass to grace(Album, 2006)
• True love(2006)
• When love is a crime(2006)
• African queen(2004)

awards

• 2Baba is the first winner of MTV Europe, Best African Act Award (2005)
• 5x Headies Awards for Artist of the Year (2011), Album of the Year (2011)
• 4x Channel O Music Video Awards for Best Male Video, Best African Act (2005); Most Talented Video of the Year, Most Talented West African Video (2011)
• BET Award for Best International Act (2011)
• 4x MTV Africa Music Awards for Best R&B Music; best male; Best Video (2009)
• He holds the honorary degree of Master of Arts in Music from Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, Nigeria
• Tubaba was made an Honorary Member of the Music School by the Music Department of Obafemi Awolowo University (2019)

7. Youssou N'dour (Senegalese)

• Alter:63 years old
• The year started:1970er
• record label:True World Records, Nonesuch Records Inc; Sony Music Entertainment, Columbia Records

Introduced to music in the 1970s, it didn't take long for Youssou to break through into the music world. He would arguably rise to become one of the celebrated stars of his time, and before long his career in showbiz would have an impact on many people and things.

He has sold many records, set the pace on stages around the world and received numerous awards. Youssou was also able to use music to become a UNICEF ambassador and was a vocal voice for the scourge of Africans. He is also involved in the business world and runs a nightclub, radio station and record label.

Best works byYoussou N'dour

• Story(2019)
• Africa Rec(2016)
• "Egypt(2004)
• Joko “From the village to the city(2000)
• The Woman's Guide(1994)

Achievements/awards of the singer

• MTV Europe Music Award for Best Song "7 Seconds" (1994)
• Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album for "Egypt" (2005)
• 6 Grammy nominations for Best World Music Album (1993, 1995, 2001); Best Contemporary World Music Album (2004, 2005)

6. King Sunny Ade (Nigerian)

• Alter:76 years old
• year started:1960er
• Labels:Island Records, Sunny Alade, IRS, Provogue, African Songs, Sigma Park, Master Disk

A look at the filesKönig Sunny AdeIt is evident that the impact he has had on the music industry in Nigeria and Africa cannot be overstated. He is considered a pioneer of juju music, who soon achieved worldwide fame, although he started small with a small band.

As a result of his musical ability, Sunny Ade, born in 1946, set a new pace for the Nigerian music industry when he became the first Nigerian to receive a Grammy Award nomination in 1983. He added this to other accomplishments, including making music in Hollywood films such asBreathless(1983), a film starring Richard Gere. His song has also been featured in other Hollywood films such asAnother Saturday night(1987) and O.C. and Stiggs (1985).

Lieder

• Bab Mo Tunde (2010)
• Son of Wunmi (2003)
• That's it(2000)
• Seven degrees north(Album, 2000)
• Merciful God(2000)
• let them say(1987)
• Movement of the Syncro system(Album, 1983)
• I know(1983)
• Ja Funmme (1982)

awards

• 2x Grammy Award nominee for Best World Music/Ethnic Sound (1984, 1999)
• Aufnahme in die Hard Rock Cafe Hall of Fame (2016), The Headies Hall of Fame (2020) und Afro-Pop Hall of Fame, Brooklyn African Festival (2009)
• He received an appointment as Visiting Professor of Music at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (2009)
• International Reggae and World Music Awards for Outstanding Contribution to World Music and was named King of Music (2008)

5. Davido (Nigerian)

• Alter:30 years old
• However Name:David Adedeji Adeleke
• The year has started:
• Label:DMW, HKN, Sony Music Africa, RCA

At first, Davido followed his heart and dropped out of Oakwood University in the United States, but he honored his father by graduating from Babcock University, Nigeria, in 2015. Although it was risky that he was trying to give up higher education for music, the risky crooner was able to rise above many in music.

In 2011 he started work on his first album,rich father's sonwhich would later become his pseudonym. The album made Davido famous and in just a matter of time he reached a stage where he would be ranked among the most famous African musicians.

He is most notable for making the most viewed video by a Nigerian artist on YouTube.Fallen.He also broke another record with his song with Chris Brown.Blow My Mind(2019) when the song racked up a million views in 11 hours to become the most viewed song in that short period of time. His record surpassed Wizkid's songsFeverAndCome closer,who previously held the position.

Davido's most popular songs

• A better time(2021)
• Champion-Sound mit Focalistic(2021)
• Please(2020)
• Risk(2019)
• Blow My MindFt. Chris Braun (2019)
• Fallen(2017)
• If(2017)
• The soundfeet Uhuru and DJ Buckz (2015)
• And(2014)
• Skelewu(2013)
• Morning(2013)
• All from you(2012)
• Dami Duro(2011)

His awards and recognition

• Best International Act: Africa at the BET Awards (2014)
• Kora Awards for Best Newcomer Award (2012)
• Ben TV Awards for Music Video of the Year (2014)
• 2x Dynamix All Youth Awards for Promising Youth Artist and Song of the Year (2011)
• 2x African Muzik Magazine Awards for Best Male West African and Artist of the Year (2014)
• MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Man; Artist of the Year (2014)
• City People Entertainment Awards for Musician of the Year (Male, 2014)
• 8x The Headies Awards (2018, 2014, 2013, 2012)

4. Trevor Rabin (South African)

• However Name:Trevor Charles Rabin
• Alter:69 years old
• The year started:1972
• Label:Chrysalis, Capricorn, RPM, Voiceprint, Jet, Atco, One-Way, Verese Sarabande

Trevor Rabin's hands were filled with music as a producer, singer and songwriter. His career began when he was 18, although he was born into a family of musicians.

In music, he has performed as a band member of "Rabbit", "Yes" and as a solo artist. In a career spanning more than four decades, he has created a musical legend and earned himself a place on the list of Africa's most famous musicians.

Trevor Rabin's Songs and Solo Albums

• future memories(2021)
• Rosewood(Album, 2012)
• Something to hold on to(1989)
• I Can't Look Away (1989)
• Eyes of Love by Trevor Rabin(1989)
• owner of a lonely heart(1983)
• face to face(Album, 1979)

Selected awards by Rabin

• 3x ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards für (2010, 2011, 2012)
• 2x Park City Film Music Festival for Best Effect of Music in a Feature Film (2006), Los Angeles Music Awards for Lifetime Achievement Awards (2004)
• 1 Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental (1985) and six other Grammy nominations

3. Burna Boy (nigerianisch)

• However Name:Damini Ebunumuwa Ogulu
• Alter:31 years old
• The year started:2011
• Labels:Raumschiff, Bad Habits, Atlantic, Warner Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing Group, SESAC

With his unique blend of voice, lyrics and style, Burna Boy is an acclaimed artist penetrating the hard walls of the continents. His professional career started in 2011 and just a year later his music reached many ends.

Currently, Burna Boy remains one of Africa's most eclectic artists, having explored genres including Afro-Fusion, Afrobeats, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Pop and R&B. Born in Port Harcourt in 1991, the singer and songwriter frequently collaborates with local and international stars including Wizkid, Youssou N'Dour, Angelique Kidjo, Sauti Sol, John Legend, Jon Bellion and Justin Beiber.

Some of Burna Boy's best work

• Twice as big(Album, 2020)
• Wonderful(2020)
• Odogwu(2020)
• monsters you madeFt. Chris Martin (2020)
• Wonderful(2020)
• African giant(Album, 2019)
• Her(2018)
• on the lower; on the bottom(2018)
• Hot(2018)
• gate of heavenft. Lily Allen (2018)
• LIFE(Album, 2013)
• Happy to party(2012)

Awards won byBurna boy

• Grammy Awards for Best Global Music Album (2021)
• 2x BET Awards for Best International Act (2021, 2020)
• 2x Future Awards Africa for Future Award for Music; Future Prize Young Talent of the Year (2019)
• MOBO Awards for Best International Act (2020)
• All African Music Awards for West African Male Artist of the Year; Artist of the Year in Africa (2019)
• The Headies for Artist of the Year; song of the year; and Best Collaboration (2019)

2. WizKid (Nigerian)

• Alter:32 years old
• However Name:Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun
• year started:2001
• Labels:Starboy, RCA, Empire Mates Entertainment (EME, ehem.)

A highly dominant figure who has occupied the African music space for more than a decade and continues to make a difference is Wizkid, born in Lagos in 1990. As one of Africa's finest musicians, he has used music to build a continental reputation and reach heights that many African artists do not have.

Wizkid has written a number of stories in his rise to fame. In February 2021, he became the most streamed artist in Nigeria on Spotify with more than 3.4 billion streams to name a few. His rhythm and flow continue to be superb, and his commercial success amid accolades places him at the forefront of Africa's greatest and most celebrated musicians.

Wizkid's most notable songs

• MoodFt. Buju (2022)
• beingsfeet Tems and Justin Beiber (2021)
• Manufactured in Lagos(Album, 2020)
• sounds from the other side(Album, 2017)
• come closerFt. Erpel (2017)
• Come On (Album, 2014)
• Jay Jay Jay(2013)
• Superstar(Album, 2011)
• love my baby (2011)
• Hello to your boy(2010)

awards

• his songbeingsfeaturing Tems was the first Nigerian song to hit the US Billboard 100
• Essence's remix featuring Justin Bieber and Tems became the highest song by an African artist to reach No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100
• Wizkid is the Nigerian artist with themost certified songsin CA
• Grammy Awards for Best Music Video (with Beyonce, 2021)
• 5x African Entertainment Awards USA for Best Male Artist, Album of the Year, Best Collaboration, Best Video and Song of the Year (2021)
• 7x AFRIMA award (2017, 2021)
• 3x BET Awards for HER Awards (2020) und Best International Act Africa (2012, 2017)
• New African Magazine listed him among the 100 most influential Africans
• 3x Billboard Music Awards für Top Streaming Song, Top R&B Song und Top R&B Collaboration (2016)

1. Angelique Kidjo (Beniner)

• Alter:66 years old
• The year started:1982
• record label:Iceland, Mangom PolyGram, Columbia, Razor & Tie, 429

Kidjo has one of the strongest voices in Africa. That being said, the Beninese native has lasted about three decades, making the list of the 100 most influential people of the time and continuing to blaze a trail through music from the 80s into the 2020s - a height many music acts dare not reach have reach.

Kidjo has proven to be versatile with the genres Afropop, Afrobeat, Reggae, World Music, Fusion, Jazz, Gospel and many others. She has also explored African indigenous languages ​​and other foreign languages, which includes French in her music. No wonder her fame knows no bounds and her career blossoms with every music released.

Aside from the songs she has recorded throughout her career, she has also recorded songs for films, TV shows and documentaries. She remains one of the most celebrated African musicians of all time as she has enjoyed tremendous commercial success, winning awards and collaborating with international artists.

Selected songs and albums by Angelique

• Africa(2021)
• Africa, uniquefeet Mister. Eazi, Salif Keita (2021)
• mother Nature(Album, 2021)
• Gin-Gin(2007)
• We are one(1998)
• Wombo-Lombo(1996)
• And(Album, 1994)
• Taxes(1994)
• we we(1992)
• Batonga(1992)

Some of Angelique Kidjo's awards

• 4-time Grammy Award Winner for Best World Music Album (2020, 2016, 2015, 2008)
• 12x nominated (2011, 2005, 2003, 1999, 1995)
• Forbes WomanAfrica Entertainer Award (2022)
• Time magazine included Angelique in their Time 100
• Legion of Honor, the highest French award of merit, on January 1, 2021
• BBC 100 Women List of the Most Inspiring and Influential Women in the World (2020)
• She received an honorary doctorate from UCLouvain University (2020)
• Angelique was awarded the Dutch Edison Award for her career in the Jazz and World category (2019)
• All African Music Awards (AFRIMA) for Best Contemporary Artist and Best Female Singer from West Africa (2014)

In summary, many famous African musicians have made a difference and contributed to the growth of the continent's music industry. Therefore, the above list is just the tip of the iceberg.