Nigeria: Kold AF joins Spotify EQUAL Africa programme

Launched in April 2021, the streaming platform’s year-round initiative champions female artists in music, providing them with a global platform through curated playlists, dedicated content hubs, and collaborative partnerships. Kold AF’s unveiling follows her selection as Spotify’s Fresh Finds artist in 2023. She joins a growing list of African artists who have benefited from EQUAL Africa, including Ayra Starr, Aṣa, Gyakie, Somi, DBN Gogo and Soraia Ramos.

“Participating in the EQUAL program is a genuine honour, a testament to Spotify’s commitment to supporting female artists,” Kold AF said. “It also serves as a gentle reminder to me to extend a helping hand to the aspiring women who will follow in my footsteps.”

Spotify’s senior artist and label partnerships manager for sub-Saharan Africa Monica Kemoli-Savanne said: “At Spotify, empowering women and creating opportunities for them is a true passion. We’re committed to continuing these efforts and showcasing rising artists like Kold AF, who serve as a reminder that dreams are valid. EQUAL Africa is honoured to be a part of sharing these stories.”

In 2023, Spotify facilitated 15 EQUAL activations, resulting in over 14.8 million artist discoveries from EQUAL playlists, and EQUAL artists garnered 11 800 editorial playlist placements.

Kold AF, who kicked off her professional music career in 2019, is behind mid-length projects like 2022’s Kold Szn, Kollide, a 2023 collaborative EP with French producer BGRZ, and recently, no PITY.

She describes her sound as a fusion of genres rooted in dancehall, R&B, and Afropop, adding that her lyrics touch on authentic and relatable themes.

“People often try to fit me into their preconceived moulds, guided by their prejudices,” she added. “Yet, as a young woman navigating the labyrinth of the music industry, I refuse to be confined by such limitations. My focus remains unwaveringly fixed on staying true to my artistic vision.”