Kenya: tg.blk named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa artist for July

Originally from the coastal city of Mombasa, tg.blk has built a reputation for her independent approach to music-making, blending rap, lo-fi production, R&B and soul into a sound rooted in raw emotion and self-expression. Her music explores themes of identity, authenticity and contemporary youth experiences, setting her apart within Kenya's evolving alternative music scene.

Her musical journey began in her bedroom, where she taught herself to rap and produce beats using GarageBand. She continued developing her production and songwriting skills while studying in the United States before returning to Kenya, where she has established herself as an influential voice in the country's alternative hip-hop movement.

tg.blk first gained widespread attention with her 2021 breakout single Love Being Used, which attracted listeners across the region and accumulated millions of streams. She has since continued to refine her sound while maintaining full creative independence. Following the release of her 2024 EP ITS NOT THAT DEEP and songs such as gin and wine, she has continued to experiment across genres while remaining true to her artistic vision.

Spotify's EQUAL Africa programme spotlights women artists who are shaping the future of African music by expanding their visibility and connecting them with audiences across the continent and internationally.

"tg.blk represents the fresh, daring and authentic spirit that is propelling the East African alternative music scene forward," Spotify Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu said.

"Through the EQUAL programme, we are proud to celebrate her unique artistic perspective, her technical independence as a producer and her inspiring commitment to vulnerability."

To mark her selection, Spotify spoke with tg.blk about her musical journey, creative process and the experiences that continue to shape her artistry.