Spotify has crowned Nigerian singer Ayra Starr as the most streamed female artiste in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, according to the platform’s 2024 Wrapped report.
This revelation highlights the dominance of African women in shaping the continent’s music scene.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, shared the news in a statement on Saturday.
She noted that the streaming platform’s data showcased a vibrant year for female artistes who are breaking boundaries and promoting inclusivity within the music industry.
In Nigeria, Ayra Starr led the list of most-streamed female artistes, followed by Tems, Qing Madi, Billie Eilish, and SZA. Other popular names include Tiwa Savage, Bloody Civilian, Rihanna, Simi, and FAVE. Similarly, in Ghana, Ayra Starr also topped the chart, accompanied by Tems, SZA, Gyakie, and Rihanna. In Kenya, Starr retained her top spot, with SZA, Rihanna, Tems, and Billie Eilish trailing behind.
For South Africa, Taylor Swift claimed the top spot, followed by Billie Eilish, SZA, Rihanna, and Beyoncé.
Ayra Starr’s success in 2024 is attributed to her hit album The Year I Turned 21, a global tour, and her fearless fashion statements. Her blend of Afropop and rhythm and blues made her a favorite across multiple countries.
Tems, another Nigerian powerhouse, also made waves, securing the second position in Nigeria and Ghana and the fourth in Kenya. Tems’ single Love Me Jeje ranked No. 20 on Rolling Stone’s Top 100 Songs of 2024.
Okumu also emphasized the role of Spotify’s EQUAL Africa initiative, which has supported over 200 female artistes in its four-year span.
South Africa’s Tyla emerged as the top EQUAL ambassador, with Ayra Starr, Amaarae, and Qing Madi among others also gaining recognition.
Okumu celebrated the milestones achieved by African female artistes but acknowledged the need for greater representation at the top.
“Spotify is excited to celebrate the progress of Africa’s women artists, but the data shows that there is still work to be done to see more representation of these powerhouse creators in the top lists,” she said.
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