Spotify’s RADAR Africa programme is aimed at discovering emerging artists across the world, with a special focus on the African continent. This year’s all-female lineup is made up of five talented artists, including the haunting melodies of Bloody Civilian, the soulful sounds of Baaba J, the ethereal vocals of Xenia Manasseh, the genre-defying Tyla, and the fierce energy of Ria Sean. These artists represent a wide range of styles, from the ambient sounds of West Africa to the masterful Amapiano of South African townships, R&B, alternative, and the creative Afropop that has been taking the world by storm.
The RADAR programme was launched in 2020 to support artists on their paths to superstardom, helping rising talent at all stages of their development and strengthening their connection to audiences. The African artists joining the Spotify RADAR programme represent the very best that the continent has to offer.
Bloody Civilian, a genre-defying singer-songwriter and producer, combines alt-R&B with other genres, inspired by her African heritage and a wide range of musical influences. Ria Sean, a rising Nigerian singer-songwriter, combines Afro-fusion, pop, and R&B into her music, with a distinctive and versatile voice. Baaba J is a Ghanaian singer and songwriter with a passion for music and film, blending indigenous high life, pop, rap, and soul, with a unique sound that has won the hearts of many. Xenia Manasseh, a Kenyan singer-songwriter, possesses a captivating voice that brings a refreshing and pure sound to the music scene. Tyla’s music is a fresh take on pop and R&B, blending South African amapiano and innovative production.
Spotify will prioritise the promotion of RADAR playlists, RADAR podcasts, Spotify Singles, and priority releases from RADAR artists across all regions. These talented artists are committed to pushing boundaries and forging new paths in their careers, and Spotify’s RADAR Africa programme is an excellent opportunity for them to connect with new audiences and continue growing their careers.
“As the music industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to find new ways to support emerging talent and offer them a fair chance at success both on and off the platform. So we are thrilled to welcome Xenia Manasseh, Bloody Civilian, Ria Sean, Tyla, and Baaba J to the RADAR programme. These artists represent the diversity and vibrancy of the African music scene, and we are excited to support them as they continue to grow their careers,” says Victor Okpala, Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships Manager, West Africa.
The RADAR Africa programme has already produced significant results for artists who were part of the programme last year, such as Ayra Starr, DBN Gogo, Black Sherif, Victony, BNXN, and Buruklyn Boyz. These artists were exposed to new fan communities as a result of the programme, and their music reached new audiences across the world. Spotify’s RADAR programme is an excellent opportunity for emerging artists to take their careers to the next level and reach new heights of success.
