Top 10 Female Musicians in Africa
In the ever-evolving realm of African music, a chorus of exceptional voices rises to prominence, each adding depth and vibrancy to the music industry.
Notably, among these stars, there are top female musicians to highlight as true emerging stars – their talents igniting a musical renaissance and shaping the industry with their unparalleled creativity.
This article embarks on a journey through the heart of African music to spotlight the top 10 female artists whose artistry, innovation, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of the continent.
From the pulsating rhythms of the West to the soul-stirring melodies of the East, these women stand as pillars of inspiration, weaving narratives of strength, empowerment, and cultural celebration through their transcendent performances.
Read on as we celebrate the enduring legacy of these 10 remarkable artists, whose contributions continue to resonate across borders, transcending language and uniting listeners in a shared love for African music.
Angelique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo stands as a towering figure among Africa’s elite female artists, renowned for her exceptional talent, groundbreaking contributions, and steadfast commitment to leveraging music as a catalyst for societal transformation.
The superstar originating from Benin, Angelique Kidjo’s illustrious career spans decades, marked by numerous prestigious accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and recognition as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential individuals.
Remarkably, central to Angelique Kidjo’s artistry is her mesmerizing voice – an instrument of boundless power and versatility that effortlessly traverses genres and languages, imbuing each melody with profound emotion, depth, and authenticity.
Her music transcends cultural boundaries, seamlessly blending traditional African rhythms with elements of jazz, funk, salsa, and gospel, crafting a sound that is distinctly her own yet universally resonant.
Beyond her musical prowess, Angelique Kidjo’s impact extends far beyond the confines of concert halls. As an impassioned advocate for human rights, gender equality, and social justice, she fearlessly utilizes her platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized and shed light on pressing global issues.
Whether championing initiatives to combat HIV/AIDS or speaking out against practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, Kidjo’s dedication to effecting positive change is as integral to her identity as her music.
Moreover, Angelique Kidjo’s influence extends into realms beyond music, encompassing culture and education.
Through her mentorship programs and collaborations with youth orchestras, she inspires the next generation of artists and fosters creativity within communities worldwide.
In essence, Angelique Kidjo’s stature as one of Africa’s preeminent female artists is not solely a testament to her musical genius, but also to her unwavering commitment to harnessing her talent as a catalyst for societal progress.
Her seamless fusion of artistic expression with activism, coupled with her boundless charisma and infectious energy, solidifies her legacy as an icon not only within African music but within the broader global cultural scene.
Tiwa Savage
Over the years, Tiwa Savage has ascended to the zenith of African music, firmly entrenched as one of the premier female artists, owing to her remarkable talent, adaptability, and resolute drive. Hailing from Nigeria, her journey to the pinnacle of the music industry is a testament to her unwavering dedication.
Foremost among Tiwa Savage’s attributes is her exceptional vocal prowess. Her voice possesses a rare ability to evoke raw emotion, captivating audiences across the continent and beyond.
Whether crooning heartfelt ballads or igniting dance floors with infectious rhythms, her vocal range and emotive delivery are unmatched, imbuing each track with an undeniable allure. Beyond her vocal abilities, Tiwa Savage commands the stage with magnetic charisma.
Her performances are a tour de force, commanding attention with every gesture and leaving audiences spellbound with her electrifying presence. Whether commanding the spotlight at sold-out arenas or intimate gatherings, she leaves an indelible impression, solidifying her status as a preeminent live performer.
Moreover, Tiwa Savage’s versatility distinguishes her as a true luminary in the industry. Seamlessly blending Afrobeat, R&B, pop, and dancehall influences, she transcends genre boundaries to create a sound uniquely her own.
This fearless experimentation has garnered widespread acclaim and positioned her as a vanguard of musical innovation. In addition to her musical prowess, Tiwa Savage is a formidable songwriter and producer. Her ability to craft infectious melodies and poignant lyrics has garnered accolades from peers and critics alike. With each project, she pushes the boundaries of creativity, consistently delivering hits and leaving an indelible mark on the African music scene.
Remarkably, Tiwa Savage became the first female winner of the Best African Act category at the 2018 MTV Europe Music Awards in November 2018. She announced her departure from Mavin Records and her record deal with Universal Music Group in May 2019. Released in August 2020, Savage’s third studio album Celia featured the songs “Attention,” “Dangerous Love,” “Koroba,” and “Temptation” as its supporting tracks. On August 20, 2021, her second extended play, Water & Garri, which combines soulful R&B with Afrobeat, was published. Savage launched the Water & Garri North American Tour in March 2022 as a way to promote the EP. She was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Kent in July 2022 at a graduation ceremony held in Canterbury Cathedral.
Furthermore, Tiwa Savage is a trailblazer for female empowerment in the industry. Through her success, she has shattered stereotypes and inspired a new generation of women to pursue their dreams unabashedly. Her unapologetic embrace of her femininity and commitment to authenticity serve as a beacon of empowerment for women worldwide. Tiwa Savage’s exceptional talent, versatility, and unwavering commitment to excellence have firmly established her as one of the foremost female artists in Africa. With each endeavor, she continues to push the boundaries of creativity, leaving an enduring legacy that resonates across continents and generations.
Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade‘s position among Africa’s top female artists is firmly secured through a blend of talent, charisma, and relentless dedication. Originating from Nigeria, her journey to musical prominence showcases resilience and creative brilliance. Notably, vital to Yemi Alade’s acclaim is her remarkable vocal prowess. Her voice effortlessly navigates across genres, captivating audiences with its depth and power. Whether delivering anthems or tender ballads, her vocals resonate universally, cultivating a devoted following across the continent and beyond.
Her stage presence is equally compelling. With boundless energy and infectious charisma, she commands attention, captivating audiences large and small. Whether in grand arenas or intimate settings, she leaves an enduring impression, earning praise as a consummate performer. Alade is widely praised for her dynamic stage performances, innovative fashion sense, and captivating music videos. She has been honored with The Headies Award for Best Performer twice, in both 2018 and 2019, being the inaugural winner of the category in 2018. Yemi Alade’s versatility cements her status as a musical luminary. Seamlessly blending Afro-pop, R&B, and traditional African sounds, she creates a distinct sonic identity. This ability to fuse diverse influences underscores her innovation, setting her apart as a trailblazer in the industry.
Additionally, Yemi Alade holds the distinction of being the second Nigerian and Afrobeats artist, as well as the first female, to surpass 100 million views for a single video on YouTube, following in the footsteps of Davido. Notably, on June 9, 2020, she was selected as one of the prominent artists to perform at The Global Goal: Unite for Our Future event, organized by Global Citizen. This initiative aimed to shed light on the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in remote areas of Africa and worldwide. Yemi Alade’s participation in the Global Goal: Unite for Our Future event on June 27, 2020, alongside renowned artists such as Miley Cyrus, Shakira, and Jennifer Hudson, further solidified her international presence. Notably, in 2022, she earned a Grammy nomination for her collaboration with Angelique Kidjo on the song “Dignity,” being recognized in the category of Best Song for Social Change Social Merit Award.
As a songwriter and performer, Yemi Alade garners widespread acclaim. Her infectious melodies and poignant lyrics have earned numerous accolades, showcasing her creativity and skill. With each release, she pushes artistic boundaries, consistently delivering chart-topping hits that resonate globally. Moreover, Yemi Alade is an advocate for female empowerment in music. Her success dismantles stereotypes and promotes inclusivity, inspiring aspiring female artists to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Her commitment to authenticity serves as a beacon of empowerment for women worldwide. In summary, Yemi Alade’s exceptional talent, versatility, and unwavering dedication firmly establish her among Africa’s top female artists. With each endeavor, she continues to push creative boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring generations to come.
Asa
Asa, born Bukola Elemide, stands as a towering figure in Africa’s music landscape, solidifying her position among the continent’s very top female artists. With her soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and captivating stage presence, Asa has garnered widespread acclaim and admiration both at home in Nigeria and on the global stage. Remarkably, what sets Asa apart is her ability to weave together a tapestry of musical influences, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, pop, soul, and traditional African rhythms to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Her music transcends borders, resonating with audiences across cultures and continents.
Asa’s lyrics delve into the depths of the human experience, exploring themes of love, identity, resilience, and social justice with a rare sincerity and honesty. Her songs are not merely entertainment but profound reflections on life’s complexities, delivered with an emotional depth that touches the soul of listeners. Beyond her musical prowess, Asa’s authenticity and humility have endeared her to fans around the world. Despite her immense success, she remains grounded, using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, including women’s rights and mental health awareness.
Throughout her career, Asa has achieved remarkable milestones, from releasing critically acclaimed albums to performing sold-out concerts in prestigious venues worldwide. Her influence extends far beyond the realm of music, inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their uniqueness and stay true to their artistic vision. In a music industry often dominated by fleeting trends, Asa’s enduring relevance and timeless appeal serve as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and the enduring impact of soul-stirring music. As one of Africa’s most beloved and respected artists, Asa continues to inspire and uplift audiences with her artistry, cementing her legacy as a true icon of African music.
Tems
Tems, a star in Africa’s music scene, has swiftly ascended to the ranks of the continent’s top female artists, captivating audiences with her distinctive sound and magnetic presence. Born Temilade Openiyi, the Nigerian singer-songwriter has garnered widespread acclaim for her soulful voice, emotive lyrics, and genre-defying style. What sets Tems apart is her fearless exploration of sonic boundaries, seamlessly blending elements of R&B, soul, Afrobeat, and alternative music to create a sound that is both fresh and captivating. Her music transcends traditional genres, resonating with listeners across diverse backgrounds and cultures.
At the heart of Tems’ artistry lies a raw honesty and vulnerability that sets her apart. Her lyrics delve into the depths of human emotions, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and empowerment with a raw authenticity that strikes a chord with audiences worldwide. Tems’ rise to prominence has been meteoric, propelled by a string of critically acclaimed releases and electrifying live performances. Her breakout single “Try Me” garnered widespread attention for its infectious melody and powerful message of resilience, catapulting her into the spotlight and earning her a dedicated fanbase.
Tems propelled her music career globally when her feature on “Essence by Wizkid” was widely and globally accepted and celebrated, the record even got a Grammy nomination. The song “Essence” is the first in Nigerian history to appear on both the Billboard Global 200 and the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song was nominated for Best Global Music Performance at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. The Nigerian singer, Tems, who won the 2022 BET Awards for Best International Act, also made history by becoming the first female musician from Nigeria or Africa to take home the Best International Act trophy at the BET Awards as she defeated Little Simz and Dave, two UK singers, to take home the Best International Act BET Award. The 27-year-old Nigerian singer Tems, who also received a Grammy Award in the Best Melodic Rap Performance category for her role in the smash song Wait 4 U, a duet between Future and Drake, has generated the most attention on social media by far. She is now the second female Nigerian musician to win the prize thanks to this victory.
Beyond her musical talent, Tems exudes a rare sense of confidence and self-assurance, embodying the spirit of a true trailblazer. Her unapologetic embrace of her identity and refusal to conform to industry norms have made her a role model for young women everywhere, inspiring them to embrace their authenticity and pursue their dreams fearlessly. As one of Africa’s most exciting and promising talents, Tems continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, captivating audiences with her unparalleled artistry and unwavering authenticity. With each new release, she solidifies her position as a true icon of African music, destined to leave an indelible mark on the global stage.
Amaarae
Ama Serwah Genfi, better known as Amaarae, has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the foremost female artists in Africa, captivating audiences with her bold creativity, eclectic sound, and undeniable charisma. Hailing from Ghana, Amaarae has carved out a unique niche for herself in the music industry, pushing boundaries and defying categorization with her genre-bending approach.
Notably, at the core of Amaarae’s appeal lies her fearless experimentation and unapologetic authenticity. Her music defies easy classification, effortlessly blending elements of afrobeat, R&B, hip-hop, and electronic music to create a sound that is distinctly her own.
With her sultry vocals, infectious hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, Amaarae captivates listeners, inviting them into her vibrant sonic universe.
Beyond her undeniable musical talent, Amaarae is celebrated for her bold and fearless approach to self-expression.
Embracing her identity as a queer woman of Ghanaian heritage, she fearlessly explores themes of sexuality, identity, and empowerment in her music, challenging societal norms and advocating for acceptance and inclusivity.
Amaarae’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, propelled by a string of critically acclaimed releases and electrifying live performances. Her debut album, “The Angel You Don’t Know,” garnered widespread praise for its innovative production, captivating storytelling, and fearless exploration of taboo topics. As one of Africa’s most exciting and innovative talents, Amaarae continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, captivating audiences with her unparalleled artistry and unapologetic authenticity.
With each new release, she solidifies her position as a true icon of African music, destined to leave an indelible mark on the global stage.
Simi
Simi, born Simisola Kosoko, has rightfully secured her position among Africa’s elite female artists through her soulful voice, poignant lyrics, and enduring popularity. Originating from Nigeria, Simi has captivated audiences both locally and globally with her unique fusion of Afropop and soul, earning widespread acclaim and a devoted following. Simi’s standout quality lies in her seamless ability to intertwine emotive storytelling with infectious melodies, crafting music that resonates deeply with listeners. Whether navigating themes of love, life’s trials, or societal commentary, Simi’s authenticity shines through every verse and chorus.
Her song “Tiff” earned her attention in 2014 and led to a nomination for Best Alternative Song at the 2015 Headies. After her contract with X3M Music expired in May 2019, Simi departed the label. She had inked a record deal with the label in 2014. On September 8, 2017, she released Simisola, her second studio album. On April 19, 2019, the third studio album Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1 was published in honor of the singer’s 31st birthday. In June 2019, she founded the record label Studio Brat.
Remarkably, her journey to stardom has been marked by a series of chart-topping singles and successful albums, including notable releases such as “Simisola” and “Omo Charlie Champagne.” Her talent for crafting memorable hooks and relatable lyrics has solidified her status as a fixture on African music charts while fostering a personal connection with her audience. Yet, beyond her musical prowess, Simi is revered for her unwavering advocacy for women’s empowerment and social progress. Through both her music and charitable endeavors, she serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women throughout Africa, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations and advocate for change.
As one of Africa’s most cherished and influential figures in music, Simi continues to enchant audiences with her timeless compositions and genuine spirit. With each new release, she reinforces her legacy as an emblematic figure of African music, inspiring future generations of artists to tread their paths with courage and authenticity. Notably, Simi is not just a singer-songwriter but also a sound engineer. July 2016 saw the release of Adekunle Gold’s debut studio album, Gold, which she is credited for mixing and mastering. Her style of music is mostly influenced by the hip-hop, soul, and rhythm and blues genres.
Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr has rapidly ascended to the upper echelons of Africa’s music industry, solidifying her position as one of the continent’s top female artists. Hailing from Nigeria, Ayra has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her enchanting voice, compelling lyrics, and magnetic stage presence. What distinguishes Ayra Starr is her ability to effortlessly blend diverse musical influences, seamlessly fusing elements of Afropop, R&B, and soul to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Her music transcends borders, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
In early 2021, Starr made a resounding entrance into the music scene with her self-titled debut extended play, highlighted by the infectious track “Away”. The song quickly soared to prominence, holding the coveted number four spot on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50 chart for two consecutive weeks. Additionally, “Away” made waves internationally, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Top Triller Global chart, laying the groundwork for the release of her inaugural full-length album, “19 & Dangerous” (2021). Fusing elements of Afropop and R&B, the album received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike, spawning chart-topping hits in Nigeria.
The lead single, “Bloody Samaritan”, proved to be a game-changer, rocketing to the top of the charts and making history as the first solo track by a female artist to claim the number-one position on the Top 50 chart. Starr’s meteoric rise continued as she debuted on Pandora Predictions chart and secured the impressive number three spot on Billboard’s Next Big Sound list by August 28, 2021. Ayra Starr’s journey to global recognition reached new heights in 2022 with the release of her smash hit, “Rush”. The song made waves across multiple territories, including Switzerland, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 24. The success of “Rush” earned Starr her first nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance, solidifying her status as a rising star on the international stage. Notably, Starr etched her name in the annals of music history by becoming the youngest African Female Artist to surpass 100 million views on a single video on YouTube. What’s more, she achieved this milestone within a remarkable five months, cementing her position as a trailblazer in the industry and setting a new standard for success.
Ayra Starr’s meteoric rise to prominence can be attributed to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft. With a string of chart-topping singles and a critically acclaimed debut album under her belt, she has quickly garnered widespread acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Beyond her musical prowess, Ayra’s authenticity and relatability have endeared her to fans around the world. Through her introspective lyrics and emotive performances, she invites listeners into her world, sharing her experiences, struggles, and triumphs with raw honesty and vulnerability. As one of Africa’s most promising and dynamic talents, Ayra Starr continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and undeniable charisma. With each new release, she reaffirms her status as a true icon of African music, destined to leave an indelible mark on the industry for years to come.
Aya Nakamura
The Malian-French female singer, Aya Nakamura has firmly secured her position as one of Africa’s premier female musicians, thanks to her dynamic talent and cross-cultural appeal. Raised in France to Malian parents, Nakamura’s music effortlessly blends Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary pop and R&B influences, creating a captivating sound that resonates globally. What sets Nakamura apart is not just her music but also her commanding stage presence and magnetic charisma. Whether on stage or in music videos, she exudes confidence, drawing audiences in with her captivating voice and engaging performances.
Her song “Brisé” gained popularity on YouTube, and she debuted on the French charts with a duet called “Love d’un voyou” featuring rapper Fababy. 2017 saw the publication of her debut album Journal Intime, and 2018 saw the release of its follow-up, Nakamura, which received a French diamond certification. Her songs have sold over 1.2 million copies globally and are well-liked both overseas and in French-speaking nations. It gave rise to the successful singles “Djadja” and “Copines” and started the singer’s global career. In that same year, she overtook Edith Piaf, who had held the title of most-listened-to French-speaking female musician in the Netherlands since 1961.
The first single from Aya Nakamura’s second album, “Djadja,” was released on April 6, 2018. It peaked at number one on the French chart for two weeks in a row before receiving a diamond certification. The song swiftly rose to popularity during the summer in France before going global. With “Non je ne regrette rien” from 1961, she became the first French female musician to reach the top of the charts in the Netherlands. The Belgian singer Stromae’s “Alors on danse” was the latest Francophone hit to top the Dutch charts since 2009. “Djadja” was also the first. Then, “Djadja” took over radio stations and charts throughout Europe. In August 2018, the next single, “Copines,” was made available. Prior to peaking at number one in November 2018, it debuted in France at number four and received a Diamond certification. Aya Nakamura’s second album, Nakamura, was released on November 2, 2018. Notably, she took home the European Music Moves Talent Award for Best Urban record in January 2019. She received nominations for Song of the Year and Best Urban Album at the 2019 France Music Awards in February. Her “Pookie” music video was published in April 2019 and went on to become the most-viewed French video of the year. Remarkably, the New York Times described her as “one of the most important acts in Europe now, musically and socially” in May 2019.
Beyond her musical contributions, Aya Nakamura serves as a trailblazer in the Afro-French music scene, breaking stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their cultural identities. Her chart-topping hits like “Djadja” and “Pookie” have earned her international acclaim, solidifying her status as a leading figure in African music. In essence, Aya Nakamura’s impact transcends borders, uniting audiences worldwide and establishing her as a prominent force in the contemporary music landscape.
Lira
Lira stands tall among Africa’s top female musicians, revered for her exceptional talent, soul-stirring vocals, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Hailing from South Africa, Lira’s music resonates with audiences globally, earning her widespread acclaim and a devoted following.
At the heart of Lira’s appeal lies her ability to infuse her music with messages of empowerment, hope, and resilience. Through her soulful voice and uplifting lyrics, she has become a beacon of inspiration for fans across the continent and beyond. Her songs, such as “Loliwe” and “Mgodi,” carry a timeless quality that speaks to the human experience, transcending cultural boundaries and touching hearts worldwide. Beyond her musical prowess, Lira’s impact extends to her role as a cultural ambassador, using her platform to champion causes close to her heart, including gender equality and social justice. She embodies strength and grace both on and off the stage, serving as a role model for aspiring artists and activists alike.
Lira’s influence on the African music scene is undeniable, with numerous awards and accolades to her name, including multiple South African Music Awards and MTV Africa Music Awards. Her innovative fusion of jazz, soul, and R&B has earned her a place in the pantheon of African music legends, solidifying her status as one of the continent’s most celebrated female musicians. In essence, Lira’s music is not just a reflection of her talent but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through her artistry and advocacy, she continues to inspire and uplift audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of African music and society as a whole.