Afromixx Artists to Watch Out For In 2025
As the African music scene continues to evolve, a new wave of artists is capturing the hearts of listeners with their innovative sounds and compelling narratives. Here are the top artists to watch in 2025.
Mr. Fido
Matogun-bred Mr. Fido brings a unique perspective to his music, weaving compelling narratives into his songs. His distinctive melodies and thoughtful lyrics have resonated with audiences nationwide, propelling him into the mainstream spotlight. The release of his debut single, ‘Awolowo’, was met with widespread acclaim. Closing the previous year as a beacon of hope in the Afrobeat genre with his single, “Joy Is Coming,” released in December, which quickly became a jolly anthem of optimism and resilience. Building on this momentum, Fido is set to open the year 2025 by embarking on the Joy Is Coming UK Tour, starting February 7th and concluding in the first week of March, bringing his musical prowess to an international audience. And if these wins are anything to go by, Fido is undeniably one to watch in 2025.
malaïka
Blending cultures and influences into a sound that feels like a warm embrace, malaïka is a Ghanaian-German-Cameroonian singer crafting music that is as soulful as it is intimate. Now based in Accra, her artistry is deeply rooted in the diverse sounds she grew up with—from soul, funk, and R&B to zouk, makossa, and afrobeats. Inspired by the likes of Jill Scott, India Arie, and Cleo Sol, she creates music that is soft, honest, and deeply reflective of the world she envisions.
With a voice that carries both warmth and depth, malaïka’s music is more than just sound—it’s an experience. As she continues to shape her unique space in the industry, she is a name to keep an eye on in 2025.
Minz
Surulere-born Minz is one of the new-generation voices positioned to disrupt the music industry. A natural songsmith who understands the nuances of creating infectious Afrobeats records that latch onto a listener, Minz has an innate ability to craft memorable, catchy hooks, making him a favourite among Afrobeats enthusiasts. His debut album, By Any Minz, released in October 2024, is arguably one of the best yet most slept-on projects of the year. Across standout tracks like ‘WAP‘ with Davido, ‘Ja‘, ‘Diallo‘ featuring Tekno, and ‘Low‘, Minz subtly showcases the distinct artistry of a veteran Afrobeats act. Before deciding the world was ready for a full album, he scored a mainstream hit with Wowo. The remix, featuring BNXN and Blaqbonez, is a heartfelt reflection on the struggles of chasing commercial success, with mellow chords and subtle saxophone elements setting the tone for Minz’s introspective storytelling.
Ayo Maff
20 years old Ayomide Mafoluku, also known as Ayo Maff, was raised in the rural suburbs of Lagos, Nigeria—a key influence in his creativity as an artist. Ayo Maff draws inspiration from his surroundings, spurring music that often reflects personal experiences and his community. Ayo Maff’s soulful melodies and introspective lyrics have garnered significant attention since his chart-topping single and collaboration with Fireboy DML on “Dealer“, a song that delves into themes of escapism and youthful exuberance, striking a chord with many listeners. Regarded often as the new voice of street pop, Ayo Maff continues to explore complex emotions with every new release, claiming and solidifying his place in the Nigerian street-pop scene.
Maya Amolo
With a voice that glides effortlessly over moody, atmospheric beats, Maya Amolo has carved out a space in Kenya’s alternative R&B scene, using her music to explore the complexities of love, self-discovery, and emotional depth. She first gained traction on SoundCloud, crafting melancholic, soul-stirring records like ‘U Wanna’ and ‘Where Tornados Flew,’ which showcased her delicate harmonies and vulnerable storytelling. Her sound quickly caught the attention of local producers and fellow musicians, leading to the release of her debut project, ‘Leave Me at the Pregame,’ in 2020, a deeply personal journey through self-acceptance and healing. Since then, Maya’s artistry has evolved beyond just heartbreak and introspection.
With her ethereal vocals and immersive soundscapes, Maya Amolo is an artist to watch, a force redefining East African R&B, one raw, heartfelt record at a time.
Kold AF
At just 23, Kold AF is carving out her own lane in the Nigerian music landscape, blending a rich mix of sounds that effortlessly glides between Afrobeats, Dancehall, Pop, Soul, Hip-Hop, and R&B. Hailing from Delta, she channels the storytelling depth of Asa, the fiery energy of Cynthia Morgan, and the genre-bending instincts of Burna Boy.
Her journey started with ‘Kold Szn’, a debut project that set the foundation for what has since been a meteoric rise. Now, her latest EP, ‘KAUTION’, marks a thrilling evolution in her sound. The six-track project leans heavily into dancehall fusion, showcasing a bolder, more confident Kold AF, one unafraid to push sonic boundaries and assert her voice in the ever-expanding Afrobeats space.
Named an Apple Music UP NEXT artist—a major nod for any rising star—Kold AF is on the cusp of something big. She isn’t just riding the wave; she’s shaping it, and if her trajectory is anything to go by, 2025 might just be the year she stakes her claim as a defining voice of her generation.
Arathejay
Blending cultural influences from Ghana and Kenya, Arathejay is a rising force in West Africa’s expanding soundscape. Born in Sekondi, Takoradi, with roots in Ghana’s Eastern Region and a childhood shaped by time in Kenya, his music carries a depth that reflects his diverse experiences. Arathejay has built a reputation for delivering soul-stirring records infused with spirituality, introspection, and uplifting messages.
His breakout single, ‘Sankofa,’ became a defining moment in his career, further amplified by a remix featuring King Promise. The track showcases his ability to weave tradition into contemporary sound, creating music that feels both timeless and refreshing. As he continues to refine his craft with an artistry rooted in authenticity and with an ever-growing fanbase, Arathejay’s trajectory in 2025 is set to be one of expansion and even greater musical impact.
Thandi Marie
Hailing from the culturally rich city of Lilongwe, Malawi, Thandi Marie’s music carries the warmth and depth of her roots. The rising R&B artist made a striking debut with her soulful single ‘Brand New’ in 2021, immediately capturing attention with her emotive delivery and smooth vocal textures. Not long after, she followed up with the two-track single ‘what i should’ve said’, a project that further positioned her as an artist to watch.
With each release, Thandi Marie continues to carve out a space for herself in the ever-evolving alternative R&B scene, weaving vulnerability and storytelling into her sound. Her journey is only just beginning, and she’s moving with the promise of something truly special.
Fola
Bella Shmurda’s signee, Fola, brings a fresh perspective to the Afrobeats landscape, The way Fola effortlessly blends Yoruba—mastering its tonal inflections—and English across genre lines is a skill only a few artists can execute with precision. As His latest EP, ‘What a Feeling‘, is a sonic journey through love, gratitude, and self-discovery, infusing rich storytelling with dynamic melodies. With his undeniable talent and ability to navigate diverse soundscapes, Fola is well on his way to leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Fameye
Few artists channel raw emotion into music quite like Fameye. Born Peter Famiyeh Bozah in Accra’s Police Hospital and raised in Bogoso by his grandmother after losing both parents, his journey has been one of resilience, purpose, and deep introspection. His music—rooted in Hiplife, Highlife, and Afropop—carries a spiritual depth that resonates with listeners beyond just sound; it’s a reflection of lived experiences, struggles, and unwavering faith.
His breakout moment came in 2019 with ‘Nothing I Get,’ a song that struck a nerve with its honest storytelling and moody, melodic delivery. Since then, he has continued to refine his artistry, staying true to his Twi heritage while crafting records that feel both contemporary and timeless. Whether through soul-stirring ballads or more upbeat, groove-heavy tracks, Fameye’s music always carries a message, one that positions him not just as a musician, but as a messenger.
With his label, Fameye Worldwide, and a growing catalogue of music that bridges generations, 2025 could be the year he fully steps into his prophecy, to conquer the world in his own unique way.
DOTTi The Deity
Hailing from the city of Ibadan, DOTTi The Deity is a highly talented songwriter and recording/performing artist. Blending elements of Yoruba Folk, R&B, soul, and jazz, DOTTi The Deity offers a refreshing take on Nigerian music. His debut album, “Madam Dearest Pt.1,” is a captivating love letter that showcases his storytelling prowess and musical versatility. Tracks like “Hello Sisi,” featuring Wizard Chan, underscore his ability to weave heartfelt narratives with melodic sophistication. DOTTi The Deity’s fresh yet timeless sound marks him out as a standout artist in the contemporary music scene.
KindlyNxsh
Emerging from Johannesburg’s vibrant music scene, KindlyNxsh, also known as Young Soldier, is carving out his own lane with a distinctive sonic identity. Born Anashe Ithiel Chizhande the 22-year-old artist’s journey began at just 15, inspired by the evocative soundscapes of animated show soundtracks and the underground energy of SoundCloud rap. His natural affinity for music and technology led him to master production and engineering, eventually collaborating with some of South Africa’s biggest names, including Blxckie, Sjava, AKA, Costa Titch, and Nadia Nakai.
In January 2024, KindlyNxsh took a bold leap, shifting focus to his own artistry—both as a producer and performer. The move paid off swiftly, with independent releases like ‘Where Did You Go?,’ ‘Militant Mayne,’ and ‘Military Basin’ catching widespread attention. But it was ‘Eish Chief’ that proved to be his defining moment, with the track amassing over a million streams in just a month, solidifying his place as one of the year’s breakout stars.
With an unrelenting work ethic and a vision that extends beyond just music, KindlyNxsh is an emblem of creative independence, proving that bold risks and relentless passion can turn dreams into reality.
TAR1Q
TAR1Q, a singer-songwriter and Chocolate City Music signee, possesses an impeccable, velvety voice and a soulful tone that set him apart from his peers. His ability to craft heartfelt, compelling stories through beautiful melodies makes him a standout talent. Discovering his love for music at the age of 12, TAR1Q is committed to using it as a self-expressive outlet, best communicating his emotions through an irresistible, emotive sound that effortlessly connects with audiences. If his 2024 eight-track EP, ‘Okada Airlines‘, is anything to go by, TAR1Q is well on his way to evolving from a rising star to a mainstream act sooner than expected.
Amaeya
With a voice that commands attention and a pen that cuts deep, Amaeya is emerging as one of the most promising voices in Nigeria’s Afro-Soul and R&B space. Before stepping into the spotlight, Amaeya honed her craft behind the scenes as a background vocalist for heavyweights like Tems, Show Dem Camp, Ric Hassani, and BNXN. That foundation laid the groundwork for a solo career that now sees her reimagining traditional R&B and Afro-Soul with a unique, deeply emotive touch. Her music explores themes of love, identity, and human connection, all wrapped in melodies that linger long after the song fades. Her debut single, ‘On My Own’, dropped in September 2023, immediately marking her as one to watch. With a vocal texture that cuts through the noise and storytelling that pulls listeners in, Amaeya is not just another name in the industry but a rising force shaping the future of Afro-Soul.
Naye Ayla
For Naye Ayla, music is boundless, an open space where emotions, storytelling, and spirituality intertwine. The Johannesburg-born singer, songwriter, and producer crafts a soul-rooted sound that defies genre constraints, reflecting her deep connection to artistic expression. Her stage name, Naye Ayla, holds personal significance, translating to ‘she too is the might of the moon,’ a tribute to her affinity for celestial energy.
From childhood, writing became her sanctuary, a way to process emotions and give voice to the unspoken. Whether through lyrics or melodies, Naye Ayla’s music is a vessel for honesty and connection, making her one of the most compelling artists to watch in 2025.
Brown Joel
Emerging from the pulse of Lagos, Brown Joel is an artist who transforms his experiences, environment, and era into melodies that uplift and inspire. Born Agubosim Favour Brown, he carries a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, using music as a bridge between personal introspection and collective hope. His sound is more than just rhythm and melody—it’s a sanctuary of happiness, peace, and connection, designed to resonate with listeners on a deeper level. At just 22, Brown Joel has already mastered the art of blending Afro-fusion with light-hearted yet reflective lyricism, making his music both sonically rich and emotionally stirring. His ability to craft melodies that feel effortlessly catchy while maintaining a profound sense of purpose is what sets him apart. With a core fan base deeply embedded in Gen-Z pop culture, his artistry aligns perfectly with a generation that craves authenticity and innovation.
As he continues to fine-tune his craft and carve his space in the industry, Brown Joel’s trajectory is one to keep an eye on. His music doesn’t just entertain—it awakens the spirit, and 2025 is shaping up to be the year he truly takes flight.
Øbed
A sonic architect in his own right, Øbed is steadily carving a niche in Ghana’s ever-evolving music scene. As a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, he embodies the spirit of a true DIY artist, crafting music with an introspective depth that resonates beyond borders. His approach isn’t rushed—he’s meticulously shaping his sound, building an organic following one listener at a time.
As a core member of the creative collective SuperJazzClub, alongside Seyyoh, BiQo, and Ansah Live, he’s part of a movement redefining alternative sounds from West Africa. With a clear vision and an uncompromising dedication to his craft, Øbed isn’t just making music, he’s crafting timeless pieces, positioning himself as one of the most exciting voices to watch in 2025.
MAUIMØON
At the intersection of R&B, Afro-pop, and hip-hop, MAUIMØON is crafting a distinct sound that reflects his East African roots while resonating far beyond. Since breaking into the alté R&B scene, the Ugandan-born artist has steadily built a reputation for smooth, genre-blending records that balance nostalgia with innovation. His 2022 single, ‘Sweeta’ featuring Joshua Baraka, set the tone for his ascent, and with every release, his artistry continues to expand.
His Colors Show performance of ‘Groove With Me,’ showcased his ability to deliver effortlessly soulful performances. And as he steps into 2025, MAUIMØON is primed to push East African alté R&B to even greater heights.
Wizard Chan
With a voice that carries both depth and conviction, Wizard Chan is an artist who pours raw emotion into every note. Born in Okrika, Rivers State, and proudly representing the Ijaw Tribe, he channels his roots into a sound that blends Afro-tempo, reggae, and spiritual undertones. Growing up, he found inspiration in Damian Marley, 2Face Idibia, and the sacred melodies of Teke Wari Nime (Prayer House Songs), all of which shaped the authenticity of his music.
His artistry is a reflection of love, pain, darkness, and the relentless pursuit of self-discovery. These themes resonate deeply in his discography, giving his sound an almost mystical quality—one that feels both introspective and universally relatable.
KiKi Celine
KiKi Celine is one of the freshest faces redefining R&B in Ghana, West Africa, and beyond. Her music is more than melodies; it’s a window into her soul, shaped by deeply personal lyricism that pulls listeners into her world. Every song she crafts is like an intimate conversation, a reflection of love, growth, and self-discovery.
Rooted in R&B and Afropop, the “Fragile” singer has already begun making waves, with a second single that has solidified her place among Ghana’s emerging stars. Her influences—Gyakie, Tems, SZA, MzVee, and Baaba J—are evident in her sonic approach, blending smooth, emotive vocals with immersive storytelling. KiKi Celine is already carving a distinct path, one that resonates with fans craving music that feels both raw and relatable.
With a sound that triggers strong emotions that linger long after the music fades, KiKi Celine is building something special with a voice that will only grow stronger in 2025.
Turunesh
Turunesh’s music isn’t just a listening experience; it’s something a listener feels. At once tender, soulful, and deeply immersive, her sound is a melting pot of influences that reflect her journey as an artist. She began shaping her musical identity at just 14, blending her love for poetry and songwriting before timidly sharing her work on SoundCloud.
Her sophomore album, ‘Satin Cassette,’ became a defining moment in her career, earning global acclaim and leading to a sold-out headliner show at Vancouver’s Biltmore Cabaret. Now based in Toronto, Turunesh is stepping back into the spotlight after a two-year hiatus, bringing with her an evolved sound that fuses Afrofuturism, experimental R&B, and Neo-Soul. As the founder of her own label and creative studio, Nesha Empire, she’s crafting not just music but an entire artistic universe that reflects her Pan-African ethos and magnetic sensuality.
