Amaarae named Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for August

Born Ama Serwah Genfi, Amaarae was raised between Ghana and the United States. Her music blends elements of alternative, pop, R&B, and Afrobeats, drawing from the diverse cultural influences she was exposed to during her upbringing. This unique style has helped her stand out in the global music landscape.

Amaarae’s interest in music production began in 2009 in a computer lab in Ghana, where she taught herself to make beats using a cracked version of FL Studio. Since then, she has gone on to release critically acclaimed projects, including The Angel You Don’t Know, and achieved international success with tracks like ‘SAD GIRLZ LUV MONEY’.

Earlier this year, Amaarae was included in Spotify’s Global Impact List, which recognises Ghanaian songs with significant international reach. Her growing influence highlights how African music continues to gain ground globally.

Her latest album, BLACK STAR, marks a return to her Ghanaian roots and, according to the artist, serves as “a rallying cry for youth culture around the world. This album is bringing the alternative community to the forefront, and being fearless about that.

“I navigate the music world with balance, willpower, and strength,” Amaarae said. “The challenges are real, don’t get me wrong, but I put my blinders on, lock into tunnel vision, and get to work. And when I come across another woman on the journey, especially a Black woman, I do my best to share knowledge, create opportunities, and lighten the load where I can.”

Her selection forms part of Spotify’s EQUAL programme, which aims to amplify the voices of women in music globally. Amaarae joins a growing group of African female artists recognised for their impact and creativity.

Spotify head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu said: “Amaarae embodies the spirit of boundary-pushing creativity that EQUAL stands for. Her artistry is bold, distinct, and unapologetically authentic – qualities that continue to inspire a new generation of artists across the continent and beyond.”