Afrobeats Intelligence

Mabel: How to Make Pop Hits and Reinvent Magic Jan 30, 2025

Mabel isn’t just another pop star—she’s a dynasty. Born into a lineage of music legends, she’s carved her own lane in the industry, bridging the gaps between R&B, UK pop, and global Afrobeats. On this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, she sits with Joey Akan to break down the DNA of her sound, the pressures of legacy, and why her latest reinvention is her most personal yet. From London’s underground to Sweden’s polished pop factories, and now to the heartbeat of African rhythms, Mabel’s journey is a masterclass in adaptation and authenticity.
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Season 3. Episode 19. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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Live at EW Lagos: Odumodublvck + The Anti-World Gangstars Jan 23, 2025

What a special episode of Afrobeats Intelligence. This is our second live recording of the podcast and it was an honor to bring this to Entertainment Week Lagos and partner on such an incredible moment.

In this live episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, Joey Akan sits down with Odumodublvck and his collective, Anti World Gangstars, for an unforgettable conversation recorded live at the LiveSpot Entertarium in December 2024.

This episode is a masterclass in creativity and collaboration. Odumodublvck breaks down his signature use of allegories in songwriting, offering a glimpse into the storytelling magic behind his music. The group also delves into the importance of camaraderie and co-creation, sharing how their bond fuels their artistic vision.

Plus, they spill the details on their new joint album, Nothing Changed—a project that promises to redefine the soundscape of Afrobeats and hip-hop.
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Season 3. Episode 18. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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S3E17: Tee-Y Mix - How To Break Street Artists The Dapper Way Dec 28, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with Tee-Y Mix, legendary music producer turned Executive Vice President at Dapper Entertainment, for an in-depth conversation about his journey and his mission to reshape Nigeria's music scene. Known for producing timeless hits, Tee-Y Mix now stands at the forefront of breaking new talent from Nigeria's streets, helping artists like Shallipopi and Seyi Vibez rise to prominence.

Tee-Y Mix shares the philosophy driving Dapper Entertainment—a company dedicated to uncovering and nurturing street artists who reflect the raw, unfiltered energy of Nigeria’s vibrant music culture. From identifying unique sounds to creating artist development strategies, he explains how Dapper Entertainment has become a hub for the country’s most exciting new acts.

We dive into the meteoric rise of Shallipopi, an artist whose catchy lyrics and street charisma have made him a household name. Tee-Y Mix unpacks the formula for his breakout success and how the label tailored its approach to elevate his music. Seyi Vibez also takes center stage as Tee-Y Mix discusses the importance of authenticity and storytelling in connecting with fans.

Beyond breaking records, Tee-Y Mix reveals the intricacies of signing and developing artists from Nigeria’s streets, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that come with turning raw talent into global stars.

Whether you’re a fan of Nigerian music, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the mechanics of the music industry, this episode is a masterclass in artistry, strategy, and passion. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Afrobeats and the visionary leadership shaping its future.

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Season 3, Episode 17. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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S3E16: Kiing Lu - How to Sell Great Records Nov 27, 2024

In this powerhouse episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with Lucas Emeodi, better known as Kiing Lu—a cultural entrepreneur with a "militant mindset" forged through years of navigating Nigeria’s evolving music landscape. From his humble beginnings in Jos as a rapper and producer to becoming a pivotal A&R and founder of Speedplug Promotions, Kiing Lu shares the grit, resilience, and vision that have defined his career.

They dive deep into his discovery of TG Omori, his transformative work with Universal Music, and the creation of his own label, Captive Music. Kiing Lu unpacks the philosophy behind the "Militant Camp," a thriving community-driven movement blending hip-hop, Drille, and Afrobeats, designed to push creatives to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

With hard-earned lessons on industry relationships, brand building, and self-empowerment, this conversation is a masterclass for anyone striving to leave a mark on the music industry—and the culture at large.
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Season 3, Episode 16. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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S3E15: Wizard Chan - The Big Masquerade Nov 18, 2024

In this special episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with the enigmatic Wizard Chan, the Afro-Teme and reggae sensation whose soulful sound has captured hearts worldwide. From Okrika in Rivers State to becoming a Headies and Galaxy Music Award winner, Wizard Chan's journey is nothing short of magical.

They dive deep into his latest project, Time Traveler EP, an introspective body of work that fuses his roots with futuristic sounds. Wizard Chan reflects on his rise to fame with the chart-topping Earth Song, how growing up as the youngest of five shaped his artistry, and why he sees music as a spiritual experience.

The conversation goes beyond the music, exploring Wizard Chan’s time in the choir, his marketing studies in Ghana, and his early struggles making covers before finding his voice. Now a beacon for the Afro-Teme genre, Wizard Chan opens up about his creative process, his love for storytelling, and the emotional core of his music.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Wizard Chan tick, this episode will take you on a journey through his mind, his music, and his mission to touch lives with every note. Tune in to hear the soul of a Time Traveler.
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Season 3, Episode 15. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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S3E14: CKay's EMOTIONS – Love, Loss, and Highlife Nov 03, 2024

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey sits down with Nigerian Afrobeats superstar CKay as he takes us through the journey behind his new album, EMOTIONS. Popularly known for breaking global barriers with his 2019 smash hit “Love Nwantiti,” CKay returns with a fresh perspective, diving deep into the highs and lows of fame, heartbreak, and personal growth. We talk about the influence of his Igbo heritage, his favorite collaboration with The Cavemen. on “Addicted” and how he’s harnessed highlife to tell stories that connect beyond borders.

Reflecting on his viral success and his more private personality within the industry, CKay opens up about taking a step back, re-grounding himself in Nigeria, and creating an album that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant. Join us as CKay shares the struggles, the wins, and the vibes that make EMOTIONS an unfiltered look at the soul behind the stardom. Tune in for an intimate, no-holds-barred conversation about music, culture, and what it takes to find yourself amidst it all.
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Season 3, Episode 14. Afrobeats Intelligence.

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S3E13: Smada - The Redemption Party Oct 15, 2024

In Episode 13 of Season 3 of Afrobeats Intelligence, Smada, the 22-year-old artist and creative force, shares his remarkable journey in a candid conversation. At just 19, Smada launched What the Fuck Lagos, a party series that became a thriving community and safe space for vibes and creativity among young Nigerians. Despite assumptions that he came from wealth due to his presence in the Alté community, Smada reveals his roots in the streets, where he built his name from scratch.

Smada discusses the challenges he has faced, including being dropped by Native Records after a scandal involving court allegations that he emphatically denies. He speaks openly about the toll this situation has taken on his mental health and his hope that the full truth will soon be revealed once the case is settled. Additionally, he sheds light on the intellectual property issues surrounding his track “Smada Eh” and how he's managed to navigate these obstacles.

Despite the setbacks, Smada's party series has grown beyond Lagos, reaching cities like London and Abuja, with plans for further expansion. As he prepares for the release of his Nobody Badder EP, Smada outlines his ambitions not just for his party series but also for his career as an artist. His story, from the streets to becoming a cultural figure in Lagos and beyond, is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering determination.

This episode offers an inside look at Smada’s inspiring journey, his battles, and his dreams for the future. Tune in for a compelling conversation about creativity, community, and the highs and lows of the music industry.

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S3E12: Kold AF - From Law School to Afrofrusion Oct 05, 2024

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Kold AF, one of the most exciting new voices in the AfroFusion scene, takes center stage. Known for her unique blend of AfroFusion with Reggae, Dancehall, Soul, R&B, and Afrobeats, Kold AF’s sound captivates with its depth and versatility. Her powerful voice and sharp lyricism cut through, leaving an unforgettable impression.

Kold AF opens up about her journey, from juggling law school at Obafemi Awolowo University to making waves in the music industry. She reflects on her evolution as an artist, and how she has quickly become a force to reckon with—named a Spotify Equal Africa Ambassador and spotlighted as one of the artists to watch by Culture Custodian.

With the release of her latest Kaution EP in September 2024, Kold AF continues to push boundaries, delivering a fresh sound that’s catching the attention of both fans and critics alike. We also explore her collaboration with Aema for International Women’s Day and how she uses her platform to advocate for social justice, especially on tracks like "No Pity."

Kold AF's ability to blend genres while maintaining a distinct voice sets her apart as a trailblazer in the AfroFusion space. Tune in to hear how her rise in the industry mirrors her bold artistic vision and why she’s poised to shape the future of music.
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S3E11: Llona - How To Make ‘Homeless’ Music Sep 26, 2024

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan chats with Llona, the rising artist whose music feels like a mushy hug on a sour day. Llona opens up about his evolution from 2Classic to Llona, a journey that began on the streets of Kano and took him to the mountains of Abuja for introspection and songwriting. He shares how isolation shaped his sound, creating what he calls "homeless music"—songs that give comfort and peace when nothing else does. With his latest album Homeless making waves, Llona reveals how his struggles, solitude, and spiritual journey have carved out a unique space for his voice in the Afrobeats scene.

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S3E10: Qing Madi - Rising Rhythms, Guided by Grace Sep 17, 2024

On this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Qing Madi steps into the spotlight with a fresh perspective that’s turning heads in the Afrobeats scene. At just 17, she made waves with her breakout hit “Ole,” and now she’s here to share her journey from a young artist to a rising star. Qing Madi joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to discuss her debut album, her dance influences from ballet, and her vision for impacting Afrobeats. She also opens up about navigating her faith and its effects on her growing fanbase. Tune in as we explore the vibrant soundscape of Qing Madi and the crisp clarity of the oraimo SpaceBuds.
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S3E9: Louddaaa: Beats, Hits & Ayra Star Sep 10, 2024

Step into the studio with Louddaaa, the producer behind some of Afrobeats’ biggest tracks, on this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence. Louddaaa joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to talk about his journey from Lagos to Mavin Records and his role in shaping hits for artists like Ayra Starr and Simi. Louddaaa shares his thoughts on the oraimo SpaceBuds, highlighting their crisp bass that complements his technical expertise. Dive deep into his creative process, his breakthrough moments, and his vision for the future of Afrobeats as he discusses how the oraimo SpaceBuds bring his sound to life.
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S3E8: Bien-Aimé Baraza’s Solo Adventure: Exploring New Sounds and Old Roots with Alusa Why Are You Topless? Sep 03, 2024

Bien-Aimé 'Bien' Baraza the celebrated Sauti Sol frontman turned solo artist, graces Afrobeats Intelligence with his latest project, Alusa Why Are You Topless?. In this episode, Bien joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to delve into his debut album that fuses Kenyan heritage with global sounds. From exploring the depths of Fuji and Apala to reflecting on his time with Sauti Sol and his hopes for a reunion, Bien’s conversation is as dynamic as his music. Listen in as he reveals how the oraimo SpaceBuds enhance his musical experience and share his thoughts on the intersection of music and activism.

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S3E7: Harmony 'H-Money' Samuels - Crafting Global Hits Aug 23, 2024

From the streets of London to the palm-lined avenues of California, Harmony ‘H-Money’ Samuels has lived a life in sound. He’s a man who has seen it all: a Grammy-nominated producer who has shaped the sonic landscapes of legends, from Janet Jackson’s timeless grooves to Wizkid’s Afro-fusion anthems. On this episode of "Afrobeats Intelligence," Joey Akan digs deep into the mind of a producer who has seamlessly navigated the corridors of global music.

Harmony's journey is a tale of rhythm and reinvention, of African roots intertwined with Western influences. Growing up in the UK, he absorbed the eclectic beats of his environment, all while keeping Nigeria’s pulse alive in his heart. Now based in California, Harmony has built a career on bridging worlds, working with artists like Reekado Banks and others across Africa, crafting hits that transcend borders and genres.

In this conversation, Harmony unpacks his unique creative process, how he channels his cultural duality into his music, and what it’s like to work with legends. He’s not just making beats; he’s crafting legacies, one track at a time. Tune in as Joey Akan gets into the nitty-gritty of what it means to be a musical chameleon in today’s world, blending cultures, sounds, and stories to create something truly global.
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Lost Files E04: NSG Jul 03, 2024

NSG is a British afroswing collective from Hackney East London. The group consists of Six members: OGD, Kruddz, Mojo, Dope, Papii Abz, and Mxjib. Their latest album, "Area Boyz," is out now.

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Lost Files E03: Timi Dakolo Jun 27, 2024

Timi Dakolo is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer. He emerged winner of the inaugural season of Idols West Africa in 2007. Accompanying his victory was a recording contract with Sony BMG, in addition to other prizes. A great vocalist his latest album is titled, "The Chorus Leader."

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Lost Files E1: Abdul Quam Tadese Jun 20, 2024

Abdul Quam Tadese is a multi-faceted musician, culture entrepreneur and philanthropist.

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S3E6: Oxlade — How To Deal With Adversity Mar 15, 2024

Oxlade, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter signed to Troniq Music, Epic Records in France, and Columbia Records in the UK.

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S3E5: Joeboy — How To Move On Feb 17, 2024

Joeboy is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who was discovered by Mr Eazi and signed in 2017. After four projects and a world of hit records, he finally has his career in his hands. Here he tells Joey Akan about his entire deal and his plans for the future.

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S3E4: Steve Stoute — Independent Afrobeats To The World Feb 06, 2024

Steve Stoute is an American businessman and record executive. The founder and CEO of the Translation, a marketing agency, and the author of The Tanning of America: How Hip-Hop Created a Culture That Rewrote the Rules of the New Economy. In 2017, Stoute received $70 million from investors such as Alphabet Inc. and Andreessen Horowitz to launch United Masters, a music venture for independent artist. In 2023, United Masters launched in Africa, via Lagos, Nigeria.

S3E3: Blaqbonez — Emeka Must Shine Dec 13, 2023

Blaqbonez, is a Nigerian rapper signed to Chocolate City. highly regarded for his distinct rap style as, well as his creative ingenuity, his latest album, "Emeka Must Shine," is out now.

S3E2: Mr Eazi — African Music Business Genius Dec 03, 2023

Mr Eazi is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record executive. He is the pioneer of Banku music, a fusion of sound he describes as a mixture of Ghanaian highlife and Nigerian chord progressions and patterns. His latest album, "The Evil Genius" is out now.

S3E1: Shallipopi — How To Own An Afrobeats Planet (Pluto) Nov 20, 2023

Crown Uzama, known professionally as Shallipopi, is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. He gained mainstream attention with the release of "Obapluto" in 2023. Shallipopi is signed to Dvpper Music Distribution, a Nigerian music record distribution founded by Damillola Akinwunmi. He is best known internationally for his 2023 hit single "Elon Musk", which peaked at No. 1 on the Nigeria Top 100 Apple Music. His new album, "Presido La Pluto" is out now.

#S2E11: Tempoe — How To Make Global Afrobeats Hits May 05, 2023

Tempoe is a Nigerian record producer, DJ, singer and songwriter. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Tempoe is popularly known for the tag "MÄD!,"in all of his music productions. His production of Ckay's breakout hit, "Love Nwantiti" received global recognition. Tempoe's client list is chocked full of hits for superstars including Omah Lay, Joeboy, CKay, Jason Derulo, Victony amongst others.

#S2E10: Ayra Starr — Nigeria's Celestial Being Apr 27, 2023

Ayra Starr is a Beninese-born Nigerian singer signed to Mavin Records. After launching a fashion career at the age of 16, she pivoted to music, covering several songs by popular artists on Instagram, before sharing her first original song in December 2019. This caught the eye of record executive Don Jazzy, who signed her to his record label Mavin Records. In this episode, Ayra seats with music journalist, Joey Akan, talking about finding herself and her voice via music.

#S2E9: Sarkodie — The Weight of Legacy Mar 16, 2023

Sarkodie is a Ghanaian rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur from Tema. Buoyed by a lifetime of groundbreaking success, he is also considered one of the major proponents of the Azonto genre and dance and one of the most successful African rappers of all time.
In this episode, he seats with music journalist, Joey Akan. Sarkodie talks about working post-humously with Bob Marley, the weight of responsibility and how he engages legacy.

#S2E8: General Pype — Forever Born A Champion Feb 01, 2023

General Pype is a pioneering Nigerian reggae/dancehall artist and songwriter. He gained international prominence through his debut single, “Keep It Cool” in 2007, which featured on the Golden Globe-winning American television series “The Shield,” and through his 2009 signature hit, “Champion." Now in Hollywood, General Pype was a set designer on Black Panther, Samaritan and Guardians of the Galaxy.

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Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast is a podcast spin-off of the popular music newsletter, Afrobeats Intelligence. It's focused on African music and the sprawling ecosystem that inspires and supports creativity from Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and more. Hosted by multi-award-winning music journalist Joey Akan, the podcast explores the intersection of art, humanity and processes that give birth to African sonic excellence. Expansive interviews, the most informed and diverse views, and a snapshot into the soul of an industry pushing for global success. We dig into the past, the present and the future, democratizing the core of African music.

#S2E7: Tekno — How To Not Lose Your Voice Jan 27, 2023

Tekno (Augustine Miles Kelechi Okechukwu) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and music producer.

In this episode, he seats with music journalist, Joey Akan, for a rare career interview. Tekno talks about leaving Abuja, signing in Lagos, navigating superstardom, losing his voice and almost unaliving himself from the sidelines of inactivity.

Lots of great stories that you don’t want to miss!!

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About Afrobeats Intelligence :

Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast is a podcast spin-off of the popular music newsletter, Afrobeats Intelligence. It's focused on African music and the sprawling ecosystem that inspires and supports creativity from Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and more. Hosted by multi-award-winning music journalist Joey Akan, the podcast explores the intersection of art, humanity and processes that give birth to African sonic excellence. Expansive interviews, the most informed and diverse views, and a snapshot into the soul of an industry pushing for global success. We dig into the past, the present and the future, democratizing the core of African music.

#S2E6: AV — Benin Boy, Lagos Star Jan 13, 2023

Adindu Victor, popularly known as AV, is a singer and songwriter who comes from a music and entertainment enthusiastic family, ‘the Adindu’s’. With a late guitarist father, and years of leading a dance group in Benin, the Nigerian star moved to Lagos to see the lights, cameras and the crowd going wild.

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About Afrobeats Intelligence :

Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast is a podcast spin-off of the popular music newsletter, Afrobeats Intelligence. It's focused on African music and the sprawling ecosystem that inspires and supports creativity from Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and more. Hosted by multi-award-winning music journalist Joey Akan, the podcast explores the intersection of art, humanity and processes that give birth to African sonic excellence. Expansive interviews, the most informed and diverse views, and a snapshot into the soul of an industry pushing for global success. We dig into the past, the present and the future, democratizing the core of African music.

#S2E5: Don Jazzy — African Music Royalty Dec 09, 2022

Don Jazzy is a Nigerian record producer and cultural entrepreneur. He is the founder and the CEO of Mavin Records, and was co-owner of the now-defunct Mo' Hits Records record label with D'banj.

In this episode, he seats with music journalist, Joey Akan, chopping it up for the greatest interview ever. Don Jazzy talks about grieving, creating Mavins and running it for a decade, reinventing Himself, signing and grooming superstars and much much more!

Lots of great stories that you don’t want to miss!!

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About Afrobeats Intelligence :

Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast is a podcast spin-off of the popular music newsletter, Afrobeats Intelligence. It's focused on African music and the sprawling ecosystem that inspires and supports creativity from Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and more. Hosted by multi-award-winning music journalist Joey Akan, the podcast explores the intersection of art, humanity and processes that give birth to African sonic excellence. Expansive interviews, the most informed and diverse views, and a snapshot into the soul of an industry pushing for global success. We dig into the past, the present and the future, democratizing the core of African music.Beyonce, Rihanna, Lil Yachty, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Solange, and many more.

#S2E4: Larry Gaaga — Afrobeats Godfather Oct 18, 2022

Larry Gaaga is an Artist, producer, songwriter and record label executive from Nigeria. He is also Vice President, A&R, at Def Jam Africa, a division of Universal Music Group (UMG). Gaaga began his career in 2010 after joining YSG Entertainment, and was later promoted to General Manager. He went on to forge a career as both a performer and a manager of the rapper Vector. Gaaga has released multiple singles, including his first major feature, 'Gaga Shuffle' with 2Baba, 'Doe' featuring Davido, 'Low' featuring Wizkid, 'Slow Burner' featuring Joeboy, and 'Baba Nla' featuring 2baba, Burna Boy and D’Banj.

Afrobeats Intelligence is an ad-free podcast made possible by the generosity of listeners. For now, I’ve made everything available for free, but if you’ve been enjoying it, please consider supporting it financially by donating with the link: https://tryflok.com/g/JoeyAkan

For more:
Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com/

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#S2E3: CKay — Man, Music, Emotions Sep 29, 2022

CKay is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer signed to Warner Music South Africa, and Atlantic Records. Formerly signed to Chocolate City, his international hit single "Love Nwantiti", released in 2019 became the first African song in history to surpass one billion streams on Spotify. With array of certifications across multiple countries, he dominates the Afrobeats scoreboard, picking up plaques in every major music market. His debut album, "Sad Romance," is out now.

Afrobeats Intelligence is an ad-free podcast made possible by the generosity of listeners. For now, I’ve made everything available for free, but if you’ve been enjoying it, please consider supporting it financially by donating with the link: https://tryflok.com/g/JoeyAkan

For more:
Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com/

Follow Afrobeats Intelligence:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/afrobeatsintel/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsintel/

#S2E2: Erigga — The Lost Paper Boi Sep 22, 2022

Erigga is a Nigerian singer and rapper who has dedicated his career so far to the elevation of rap music in South-South Nigeria. After distinguishing himself in pidgin rap from his base in Warri, the hometown hero has packed out stadiums, enjoys grassroot love, is certified by the streets, and continues to represent the best of Niger Delta hip hop culture. His fifth studio album, "The Lost Boy," is out now.

For more:
Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com/

Follow Afrobeats Intelligence:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/afrobeatsintel/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsintel/

#S2E1: BNXN — Bad Since Forever Sep 15, 2022

BNXN (pronounced as Benson) and formerly known as Buju, is a Nigerian Afro-fusion singer and songwriter. A master of melodies, his latest EP, "Bad Since 97," is a bouyant exercise in self-mythology, introspection and creative growth.

For more:
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#17: Omah Lay — Embrace Your Demons Jul 27, 2022

Omah Lay is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who consolidated his mainstream acceptance after his self-produced single, "Bad Influence," soundtracked the pandemic. After two collaborations with Justin Bieber and a debilitating struggle with his demons from Port Harcourt, he's poured his suffering into his latest album, Boy Alone.

#16: Falz — Nigeria's Bahddest Creator Jul 19, 2022

Falz is a Nigerian rapper, songwriter and actor who began his career while in secondary school, but has progressed to become accomplished in music, acting and comedy. He currently owns an independent record label, called Bahd Guys Records. His sixth studio album, "BAHD" is out now.

#15: Jesse Jagz — Hip Hop's Rasta Emperor Jul 07, 2022

Jesse Jagz is a Nigerian rapper, producer and songwriter. After joining Chocolate City in 2010, Jagz released his debut studio album, "Jag of All Tradez." in the same year. He left Chocolate City in 2013 and announced the launch of his independent label, Jagz Nation. Jagz released his second studio album Jagz Nation, Vol.1. Thy Nation Come in 2013; it included singles such as 'Redemption,' 'Bad Girl,' 'Sex & Scotch' and 'God on the Mic.' His third studio album, Jagz Nation Vol. 2: Royal Niger Company, was released in 2014. He returned to Chocolate City in 2015 but left the laxbel again prior to releasing his fourth studio album Odysseus in 2017. In May 2020, he released a 5-track EP titled "Garba."

#14: JAE5 — From London to Lagos Jun 29, 2022

JAE5 is a British-Ghanaian record producer and mixing engineer from Plaistow, East London. He is a Grammy Award-winning producer and is signed to Black Butter Records. Jae5 is popularly credited with pioneering the fusion genre of Afro Swing. His sound is described as a fusion between grime, afrobeats, bashment, and dancehall.

#13: Whitemoney — From Barbershop to Stardom Jun 09, 2022

Whitemoney is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and reality TV star. He is the winner of Big Brother Naija season 6. Prior to his mainstream attention, Whitemoney was entrepreneurial, launching a string of businesses including catering, commercial photography, hairstyling, generator repairs, fixing telecommunication towers, and international trade in shoes.

#12: Brymo — Nigeria's Maverick Scientist Jun 01, 2022

Brymo is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and author. With 12 studio albums, two live albums, EPs and a string of packed out shows, he’s regarded as one of Nigeria’s most talented musicians, and perhaps, his generation’s most polarizing. His latest album Theta is available in all stores.

#11: Godwin Tom — The Vice-Chancellor of Afrobeats May 27, 2022

Godwin Tom is a master talent manager, entrepreneur, elite music business tutor and founder of the Music Business Academy for Africa. Over the years, he has successfully worked with a range of top-tier talents including Wizkid, Davido, Waje, MI, Wande Coal, Bez, Ice Prince, Bez, Show Dem Camp, Beverly Naya, Yung6ix, "Jessy Jagz, Rooftop MCs, Solid Star, Ayo Jay, Goldie, and many others.

Godwin has dedicated the last 5 years of his career to developing and training future stakeholders and leaders of the entertainment industry, and has founded Music Business Academy for Africa, the continent’s first-ever music business school, dedicated to seeding new music execs, and growing the competency levels of established music business professionals. In partnership with MusicAlly, he is currently facilitating the British Council's Creative Enterprise Support Programme (CESP) for Music in Nigeria.

He is also the author of the eBook series "Journey Of A Learner" a 12 part ebook series about navigating the African entertainment industry.

#10: D'banj — Aging As A Legend May 19, 2022

D'banj is a Nigerian singer, rapper, businessman and the founder of the defunct Mo' Hits Records with producer Don Jazzy. He has several music awards, including the awards for Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2007, Artist of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2009, Best International Act: Africa at the 2011 BET Awards, and Best-selling African Artist at the 2014 World Music Awards, Evolution award at the 2015 MTV Africa Music awards. D'banj is best known internationally for his 2012 summer hit "Oliver Twist," an uptempo dance fusion of Afrobeats and electronic dance music that topped the African charts in 2011 and was a top 10 hit in the UK singles chart in 2012 reaching No. 2 on the UK R&B chart.

#9: Chidinma — Becoming God's Minister May 12, 2022

Chidinma is a Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter. In 2010, she rose to stardom after winning the third season of Project Fame West Africa. She’s gone on to dominate pop music with a string of hits including ‘Emi ni baller’ and ‘Kedike.’ In May 2021, after a prolonged absence from public life, Chidinma announced her switch to Gospel Music. Leaving her pop career behind and becoming God’s vessel. She speaks about her transition to faith-based art, her struggle to fit in, and her transformation into a minister of God.

#8: Foza Fawehinmi — The Law of Afrobeats May 07, 2022

Oyinkansola Foza Fawehinmi is an award-winning lawyer and entertainment business executive currently based in Lagos, Nigeria. She's the president of Digital Music Commerce and Exchange Limited, an intellectual property valuation, management and administration company serving sub-Saharan Africa. Over the last 9years, she has served as a legal advisory and business consultant for some of Africa’s most reputable entertainment companies and artists like Chocolate City Music, Premier Records, Boomplay Music, Infinix Nigeria, K1 De Ultimate, Teni, Adekunle Gold, The Sarz Academy, Sarz and more.

#7: Zlatan Ibile - Ikorodu To The World Apr 29, 2022

Zlatan Ibile is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. Zlatan made his number on the African music industry when he pioneered and rode the Zanku subgenre into a cultural moment for the continent. We speak of his origins in Ikorodu, a far-flung place on the outskirts of Lagos, where dreams are seldom pursued.

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#6 Victony: Singing Through The Darkness Apr 22, 2022

Victony, is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter who officially kicked off his music career in 2017 with the release of a mixtape on
SoundCloud titled "The Outlaw King." He started off solely as a rapper and later honed his skills and developed dynamic artistry that perfectly swings between different genres such as R&B, Trap, Afropop and other genres.

In 2021, Victony was involved in a car accident that almost claimed his legs and had him in a wheelchair for months. Despite this setback, Victony managed to put out several acclaimed singles during the year including 'Pray' and the Mayorkun hit collab 'Holy Father'. He also collaborated with Grammy-winning producer Rexxie to release a dance capsule, 'Nataraja.' Victony sees his music as the best language to communicate in today's world and hopes to change the world with his music in its truest form and will propagate his art on a wider scale in 2022!

#5 - Chike: Boo of the Booless, Nollywood, Self-Actualization Apr 14, 2022

Chike is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and actor. Best regarded for his critically and commercially acclaimed album, Boo Of The Booless, he first hit the mainstream via Nigerian reality competition, Project Fame West Africa and The Voice Nigeria. Chike made his acting debut as Mayowa Badmus on the Africa Magic Showcase telenovela, Battleground, and has gone on to star in big-budget feature films.

#4 - Osagie Osarenz: Wizkid, Artist Management, Service Apr 07, 2022

Osagie Osarenz is an African music industry professional. A famed talent manager, and acute operator in African sound culture and business, she's currently the Director of A&R and Operations at ONErpm, a full-service data-driven music business solutions provider, helping artists succeed in today's global music market. Osagie's contribution in the music industry has shepherded the discovery and growth of superstars including Wizkid, Skales, Timaya, Aramide, and more!

#3 - T.G Omori Mar 30, 2022

T.G Omori is Nigeria's most in-form music video director. The elite creative pushes the most expressive and progressive aesthetics in Afrobeats. He hs the heart and pulse of Afrobeats in a chokehold, pushing the edgiest and creative videos from Nigeria, and beyond. The is the guy who's giving 'Afrobeats to the world,' the visual treatment it deserves.

#2 - Basketmouth & Duktor Sett Mar 23, 2022

Nigerian comic, Basketmouth's successful return to music has surprised Africans, with two chart-topping albums (Yabasi and Horoscopes) crowding the scoreboard with his wins. A pop culture legend, Basketmouth has spent years leading comedy on the continent, racking up awards, and defining a generation of Nigerian entertainers. He appears on the AI Podcast with collaborator, friend and prolific producer, Duktor Sett. They explore their collaboration, partnerships and how to make a great Afrobeats track!

#1 - Asa Mar 16, 2022

Asa is a superstar from Nigeria. Championed around the globe for her expansive approach to music, she’s Africa’s leading progressive artist, with a catalogue that runs through 5 albums, capturing the soul of her people. It’s hard to think of an artist from West Africa who has traversed as many spaces—with class, creativity, and soul—as she has. With a voice as rich as her catalogue of inspirations, the Nigerian native singer-songwriter and multi-platinum selling recording artist fuses Pop, Afro pop-driven, and soft-soul, taking cues from cross-continental greats– from Fela Kuti to Miriam Makeba; King Sunny Adé to Sade; Tina Turner to Lenny Kravitz.

A soaring vocalist and masterful guitarist, Asa is a calming presence blending Parisian jazz, Yoruba folk and soul into her albums. She writes personal lyrics ranging from her love life and mental health to her extensive travels and interactions with people.

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