The African continent is widely known as the birthplace of rhythm, and Black musicians throughout history have continued to push the boundaries of music and inspire listeners all around the world. As the global music industry continues to expand, Africa has remained a significant contributor to its growth and development. Over the years, African musicians have been able to break barriers and achieve memorable feats in the international music scene. In no particular order, Africa Giant have put together 20 AFRICAN GIANTS achievers in music, from topping billboard charts to winning prestigious awards.
1. Fela Kuti
Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian artist, widely regarded as the father of Afrobeat, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, making him the first African artist to receive this prestigious honor. This achievement highlights Kuti’s impact on music and social activism, particularly with his Afrobeat genre.
2. Shina Peters
A Nigerian afro-juju musician known for his unique fusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms and contemporary afro-pop music. His album “Ace (Afro-Juju Series 1)” was an instant classic while his most successful album to date, “Shinamania” with infectious lyrics. Peters is also credited with popularizing the use of the talking drum in modern Nigerian music. His music has inspired many other musicians to experiment with their own sound.
3. Angelique Kidjo
Multiple award-winning Beninese singer, Angelique Kidjo, has won four Grammy awards to date, making her one of the most influential African musicians in history. Her eclectic mix of African rhythms and contemporary sounds have made her an iconic African artist loved by people all over the world.
4. Youssou N’Dour
Senegalese superstar, Youssou N’Dour, is a household name in Africa and beyond. He has gained global recognition for his unique blend of mbalax, Senegal’s traditional music, with modern pop and soulful styles. In 2013, he was awarded the prestigious Praemium Imperiale award, which is considered Japan’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize in the arts.
5. Wizkid
In 2019, Nigerian superstar, Wizkid, collaborated with American pop icon, Beyonce, on the song “Brown Skin Girl.” This collaboration brought attention to the global appeal of African music and showcased Wizkid’s growing influence as a leading African artist. Governor Mark Dayton declared October 6 as Wizkid Day for his contribution to music.
6. Salif Keita
Salif Keita, the Malian music legend, has contributed immensely to world music through his unique blend of traditional African rhythms with other musical styles. His achievements include the UNESCO International Music Prize, which he won in 2003, and his induction into the Mozambique Hall of Fame.
7. Hugh Masekela
South African Jazz legend, Hugh Masekela, was one of the most influential musicians in Africa, pioneering the Afro-Jazz genre. In recognition of his contributions to music, he won several awards throughout his career, including the Jazz FM Lifetime Achievement Award in London.
8. Davido
The King of modern day Afrobeat has amassed millions of streams and views across digital platforms. Notably, with his own record label, DMW, has nurtured and elevated talented artists such as Mayorkun, Peruzzi, and Dremo. Presently, he remains the most followed Black African artist on Instagram, cementing his position as a leading force in modern African music. Mayor Sylvester Turner of Houston officially declared July 7 Davido day due to his contribution to music.
9. Mariam Makeba
Miriam Makeba, famously referred to as Mama Africa, was a South African anti-Apartheid activist and musician. Her career spanned over five decades and brought her global recognition, including a UN appointment as Goodwill Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization.
10. Oliver Mtukudzi
Oliver Mtukudzi was a Zimbabwean musician who had a massive impact on Zimbabwean music. He won several awards in his career and received recognition from the Zimbabwean government, including an appointment as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
11. Koffi Olomide
Koffi Olomide is a Congolese musician known for his unique blend of Congolese and Cuban rhythms. With his innovative rhythms and electrifying performances, Koffi revolutionized the Congolese music scene and helped to create the genre known as Soukous. Koffi’s who is widely regarded as the King of Soukous greatest hits, such as “Papa Mobimba,” “Henriquet,” “Selfie,” and “Ekotite,” have topped charts across Africa and earned him international acclaim.
12. Yvonne Chaka Chaka
South African musician, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, was a powerful voice for social change throughout her career. Her music was heavily influenced by the struggle against apartheid, and she continues to use her music to advocate for social justice to this day.
13. Manu Dibango
Cameroon-born musician, Manu Dibango, was a pioneer of African music. His sound was a fusion of African music with contemporary jazz, R&B, and funk, and his music has been sampled in several contemporary songs by artists such as Michael Jackson and Rihanna.
14. Oumou Sangare
A Malian singer and songwriter, Oumou Sangare is known for her powerful voice and her commitment to women’s rights and social justice. She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including the Grammy Award for Best World Music Album.
15. Fatoumata Diawara
A Malian singer and songwriter who has become one of the leading voices in the contemporary African music scene. Her music blends traditional Malian sounds with elements of jazz, blues and pop, and she has collaborated with several international artists, including Amadou & Mariam and Damon Albarn.
16. Lucky Dube
A South African reggae artist who became known as the “voice of the voiceless” for his passionate and socially conscious lyrics, which tackled issues such as apartheid, poverty, and the struggle for freedom and equality. His sound was a blend of reggae, mbaqanga, soul, and pop music, but it was his powerful lyrics that set him apart from other artists of his time.
17. King Sunny Ade
He pioneered the use of the pedal steel guitar in African music and is often referred to as the King of Juju music. His music combines elements of traditional African music with elements of jazz, funk, and rock. He has been awarded the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger and Nigerian National Merit Award, which is Nigeria’s highest national honour in the arts. He has also been inducted into the Nigerian Music Hall of Fame.
18. Amadou and Mariam
This Malian musical duo, known for their soulful, bluesy sound, and their infectious energy on stage. Their 2005 breakthrough “Dimanche a Bamako” earned them a Grammy nomination and multiple awards. They have also toured extensively throughout Europe and North America, performing at major festivals and venues such as Glastonbury, Bonnaroo, and the Hollywood Bowl. They have worked with artists like Damon Albarn and Santigold, and their music has been featured in films and TV shows around the world.
19. Fatoumata Diawara
A Malian singer and songwriter who has become one of the leading voices in the contemporary African music scene. Her music blends traditional Malian sounds with elements of jazz, blues and pop, and she has collaborated with several international artists, including Amadou & Mariam and Damon Albarn.
20. Manu Dibango
A Cameroonian singer best known for his hit song “Soul Makossa”, which became a global hit in the 1970s. The song was a global sensation, reaching the top 40 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and selling over one million copies worldwide. The three times Grammy nominated singer was awarded the Order of Merit by the French government for his contributions to culture and the arts.
From Nigeria to South Africa, Mali to Ivory Coast, the African continent has produced some of the most innovative and influential musicians in history. Whether singing about love, social justice, or the beauty of their homelands, these artists have created a sound that is uniquely African and continues to inspire listeners all over the world.
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