Kenyan artists see strong growth among young Spotify listeners

Data for June 2026 indicates that several emerging artists have recorded sharp increases in streams among young listeners, while established acts continue to attract new audiences. The figures suggest that the growth of new artists is occurring alongside continued interest in more established names rather than replacing them.

Among the fastest-growing emerging artists, Ywaya Tajiri recorded 6,151% year-on-year growth, while OnlyMoh grew by 5,117% and Virusi Mbaya by 4,692%. Codey recorded 3,622% growth and JayLo 3,015%.

Women artists were also among those recording notable increases, with Brandy Maina growing by 205% and Maandy by 201%.

The data also showed continued growth for established artists. Prince Indah recorded 221% year-on-year growth among listeners aged 18 to 24, followed by Nyashinski at 147%, Bridget Blue at 140%, Kinoti at 107% and Nikita Kering' at 96%.

Sauti Sol, which was the most-streamed Kenya-connected artist in Nairobi in June, recorded 30% year-on-year growth.

Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships lead for East Africa, Agnes Opondo, said the figures showed that audience growth was taking place across different generations of Kenyan artists.

“One of the most exciting things about Kenya’s music scene today is that growth is happening across the board,” Opondo said. “We’re seeing emerging artists build audiences at remarkable speed while established acts continue finding new listeners. That tells us discovery isn't replacing legacy, it's expanding it.”

The data was released as Spotify's Greasy Tunes programme takes place in Nairobi from 15 to 26 July. The 12-day programme at Heltz House features music alongside food, fashion, sport, comedy, podcasts and other cultural activities.

The programme includes performances and events featuring emerging and established artists, including Fresh Finds, Nakili Sessions and the EQUAL Showcase. Nyashinski also performed at the event on 23 July, while spoken-word artist Gufy hosted a Poetry Night on 22 July.

Spotify’s data also points to the growing influence of young listeners in Nairobi. People aged 18 to 24 accounted for 53.7% of all streams in the city during June, the highest proportion among the Nairobi, Lagos and Johannesburg markets included in the comparison.

The same age group contributed to growth across several genres, including dancehall, which increased by 95%, bongo flava by 75%, gengetone by 48% and gospel by 37%.

The figures indicate a Kenyan music market in which younger listeners are discovering emerging acts while continuing to engage with established artists, pointing to an expanding audience base rather than a straightforward generational shift.