Africa’s music scene in 2024 is a living, breathing testament to its boundless creativity. This year, Spotify’s Wrapped revealed African artists dominating playlists in unprecedented ways, with streams soaring across genres like Afrobeats, Highlife, Amapiano and Afro-soul. At the heart of this surge are rising stars whose stories, melodies and ingenuity are stunning listeners worldwide.

From the West to the East of the Continent, these artists are painting resonant pictures of identity and evolution through sound, and they’re just getting started. Here are some few rising stars Revolve Muzc recommends;

Arathejay

Arathejay has turned 2024 into his personal highlight reel and while Ghana had its fair share of star power, 2024 put out Arathejay. His chart-topping hit “Jesus Christ II” featuring Black Sherif became not only one of Ghana’s biggest songs but also a viral sensation across platforms. His debut EP, “Finding Nimo: The Capsule,” blends the introspective with the celebratory, delivering tracks like “C’est La Vie” and “Rosalinda” that pulse with emotion and energy.

Arathejay Delivers a Live Session Performance

A standout at Tidal Rave and both a Spotify and Apple Music editorial darling, Arathejay’s presence extends beyond the music. With “Grenade” already building momentum and a solo event dubbed, “Nimo Live” slated for December 19 at Alliance Française, he’s proving to be a multifaceted trailblazer highly adored in the space.

Llona

Llona produced one of the critically acclaimed projects in the “Homeless” album is a cathartic masterpiece. Described by critics as both vulnerable and transformative, the project delves into life’s complexities with raw honesty.

Llona-Another Day Official Video

This Nigerian artist’s rise began with viral success in 2019, but 2024 marks the year he broke through with artistry that resonates deeply with listeners seeking solace and connection. His therapeutic approach to music not only tops charts but also creates a space for healing, making him one of the year’s most significant voices.  

Qing Madi

Nigeria has long been a wellspring of global music stars, and Qing Madi is next in line. A standout in Apple Music’s Rising Class of 2024, she’s made waves with the deluxe edition of her EP. Featuring collaborations with Chloe Bailey’s “Vision” remix, Kizz Daniel’s “YBIL” and the reflective “Sins For U”.

Qing Madi- Goosebumps Official Video

Qing Madi’s work is both personal and polished, showcasing a vocal range and lyrical depth that set her apart. Her music draws from her predecessors, yet she’s creating a lane uniquely her own.  

Taves

Taves emerged this year as one of Africa’s most promising voices. His debut EP, “Are You Listening?” captures the layered emotions of love, resilience, and introspection. Tracks like “A Million Things” and “Folake” reveal his penchant for storytelling, set against a rich sonic palette influenced by artists like Asa and Burna Boy.

Named Apple Music’s Africa Rising star in July, Taves represents the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, blending Afropop with neo-soul in a way that resonates far beyond Nigeria.  

Kweku Smoke

Few artists match Kweku Smoke’s relentless output. In 2024 alone, he’s delivered two standout albums, “Kweku Jesus” and “Born in Hell,” balancing introspection and fiery lyricism. This is no surprise to Ghanaians while he previously dropped a double project the same day.

Kweku Smoke’s No Complaining Visualizer

Known for his low-key persona, this year saw him break that mould with electrifying performances, including the 3Music Awards stage. Now, as he prepares for his debut solo concert, REVIVAL, on December 18 at GHUD Park, Accra, he’s poised to solidify his reputation as one of Ghana’s most consistent and compelling voices.

Beeztrap KOTM

Beeztrap KOTM continues to elevate Ghana’s drill music scene with anthems that refuse to be ignored. Building on his 2023 successes, this year saw viral hits like the “Fly Girl” remix with Gyakie and “Yesu” dominate the airwaves.

Beeztrap KOTM – Hope Visualizer

His live performances, including Ghana Party in the Park in the UK, showcased his ability to command international audiences while staying rooted in his Kumasi origins. Known for his ambitious lyrics and infectious hooks, Beeztrap’s music offers a glimpse into the vibrancy and grit of modern Ghanaian rap. 

Ayo Maff 

Bariga, Lagos, is a significant location for street-pop, with its residents’ experiences inspiring heartbreaking music. Newcomer Ayo Maff, born Mafoluku Ayorinde Ayodele, is a key part of this evolution, distilling his angst, joy, anger, and confusion into songs. Born Mafoluku Ayorinde Ayodele, Maff draws on his experiences on the streets and lessons learned in his candid songs. His first official release, “Saturday Night,” was an Amapiano-influenced glimpse into his struggles with money, street cred, and being hip.

His 2023 two-pack release, “Jama Jama/ Another Day,” deconstructed hood politics and police harassment in lower-income societies. “7 Days” was a pseudo-dedication to Ojo, a hood brother who died shortly after a stint in police custody. Ayo Maff has also collaborated with Fireboy DML, “Dealer,” exploring how both singers seek escapism when overwhelmed by the world.

Joshua Baraka

Joshua Baraka represents Uganda’s flourishing music scene on a global scale. Selected as a Spotify RADAR artist in 2024, Baraka’s soulful lyrics and genre-blurring sound have captivated listeners far and wide. His collaborations with Joeboy, Simi, King Promise, and Bien highlight his versatility, while his “Plot Twist: RECESS Mixtape” adds another layer to his artistic depth.

Baraka weaves together traditional influences with contemporary styles and ensures his place as one of Africa’s most promising exports. His recent feature with Ghanaian star, KiDi dubbed “Someday” is another brilliant R&B and Afropop composition.

AlorG

Since the release of his first viral smash, “Free My Mind,” in April, AlorG’s popularity has been noticed across the Ghanaian music landscape. Initially collaborating with the up-and-coming BhadMayors duo, the song’s popularity looked unstoppable, attracting not only admirers but also international superstars NSG, who joined for a summer remix in July. This song was a turning point in the musician’s career, similar to Black Sherif’s breakthrough when he went from being an underground performer to an apparent overnight hit.

The Ghanaian young star also released his debut EP, “Down I’m A Rebel” with a breezy yet dynamic fusion of Afrobeats, Hiplife and Afropop.

Anabel Rose

With just a little over a year in her music career, Anabel Rose has been nothing but phenomenal. She embodies the actual essence of artistry and has built an impressive community with her music. Highly regarded for her unique blend of Pop, R&B, alternative rock and Afro-centric rhythms, her 2024 highlight was the release of her debut EP, “Something About A Rose”.

The project which showcased her distinctive voice and vision received critical acclaim for it’s brilliant composition and sonic depth.

The diversity of sounds and stories these artists bring spotlights a powerful truth: Africa is not merely a contributor to global music; it’s the heartbeat of its future. As streaming platforms and live events amplify these rising stars, the world is tuning in, discovering a continent alive with rhythm, resilience, and reinvention.