The African music industry has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, with more artists gaining access to digital platforms, global collaborations, and international recognition. Genres such as Afrobeats, amapiano, benga, Afro-pop, and Afro-jazz have steadily expanded beyond their local audiences, drawing the attention of global listeners and entertainment executives alike.
What was once seen as regional sound is now influencing the soundscape of global pop, hip-hop, and dance music. Yet, even with all the progress made, a major gap has remained in the infrastructure that supports and documents African music and its creators.
That is why the launch of Billboard Africa on June 4, 2025, marked a timely and important development. Introduced during Billboard’s Global Power Players event in London, the new platform is expected to track, showcase, and support the African music scene through editorial content, charts, artist features, interviews, and events tailored specifically for the continent.
The platform is being developed in collaboration with Global Venture Partners, and its aim is to reflect the diverse sounds and stories coming out of Africa today. Billboard Africa also promises to contribute to building long-term music infrastructure, offering artists a central space to track their growth, reach new audiences, and be included in conversations that shape the future of global music.
African Artists Who Have Already Made Global Impact
Many African musicians have already made history in international spaces over the years. Their work has not only opened doors but also challenged perceptions about what African music is and where it belongs.
Each of these artists has contributed in a different way, some through award wins, others through streaming records or chart success, and they reflect the growing influence and visibility of African talent across the globe.
Below are some examples of artists who have set notable milestones:
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Miriam Makeba (1966) – Won a Grammy Award with Harry Belafonte for their album An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba.
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Hugh Masekela (1968) – Topped the U.S. charts with his instrumental hit Grazing in the Grass.
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Wizkid (2016) – Featured in Drake’s One Dance, which became the first song on Spotify to hit one billion streams.
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Rema (2023) – Calm Down (remix with Selena Gomez) became one of the most streamed songs globally, joining Spotify’s Billions Club.
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CKay (2022) – Reached No. 1 on the U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart with Love Nwantiti.
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Tyla (2024) – Won the first Grammy in the Best African Music Performance category for her hit Water.
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Tems (2024) – Won her second Grammy Award for Love Me JeJe in the African music category.
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Tems (2024) – Became the first African-born woman to co-own a Major League Soccer team in the U.S.
What Billboard Africa Brings to the Table
The purpose of Billboard Africa is not just to celebrate success but to track and structure it. Music charts that reflect African listening habits will help position local artists more accurately in the global conversation. Editorial stories will offer insight into emerging genres, shifting trends, and the realities of working in different music markets across the continent.
For up-and-coming musicians, this platform may open up opportunities for discovery without having to leave the continent. For industry professionals, including producers, managers, and promoters, it offers a reliable resource for data, trends, and talent scouting. And for fans, it will be a hub for following the progress of artists they support and care about.
The team leading Billboard Africa, including Editor-in-Chief Nkosiyati Khumalo, is expected to bring cultural knowledge and journalistic rigour that ensures the platform is deeply rooted in African perspectives, not just global expectations.
Hopes for Kenya’s Music Industry
In Kenya, artists and fans alike are watching these developments with interest. The country has a rich musical heritage that spans traditional genres like benga to modern styles like gengetone, drill, and Afro-fusion. Kenyan musicians have been pushing boundaries, seeking global collaborations, and finding their way into international tours and playlists.
Artists such as Bien, are already attracting attention beyond East Africa. Through collaborations, consistent releases, and strong performances, he and others are laying the groundwork for greater international recognition.