Nigeria: Nissi named Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for October

Known for her versatility, Nissi combines Afrobeats, funk and soul in her music, often delivering uplifting and melodic performances. Her 2023 single ‘Nobody’, featuring Fireboy DML, fused R&B and Afrobeats to create what she described as a “rich, melodic experience”.

Beyond her musical career, Nissi has achieved notable success in engineering and design. She was part of the team involved in the development of the Bentley Bentayga SUV, making her one of the few Black women to have contributed to a major automotive project.

Speaking about her selection, Nissi said being part of Spotify’s EQUAL programme represents more than individual recognition. “Being part of the EQUAL programme means being part of a movement that’s levelling the playing field for women,” she said. “I am beyond honoured to be championing a campaign that amplifies our voices.”

Launched by Spotify to promote gender equity in the music industry, EQUAL Africa provides women artists with visibility and resources to help them reach global audiences.

Spotify head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu said Nissi embodies the programme’s mission. “Nissi represents a new wave of African creatives who are shaping the culture from every angle,” Okumu said. “She’s not only pushing boundaries through her music but also showing that women can lead across music, art and technology, that’s exactly what EQUAL Africa celebrates.”

In addition to her artistic and technical work, Nissi continues to advocate for women in technology and innovation. Her approach, which integrates creativity and engineering, has been seen as a model for how African women can excel across multiple disciplines.

Reflecting on her career, Nissi said her passion for music began at the age of five, when she started learning to play the keyboard. “I knew it was part of my destiny when I made my first demo at 13,” she said. “When I played it, it moved people in the room to tears. I’m in love with creating and performing music and connecting with people through storytelling.”

Nissi cites artists such as Fela Kuti, Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, Asa, and Awilo Longomba among her influences, describing her sound as “nostalgic yet modern” and her style as “extremely versatile”.

When asked about navigating male-dominated industries, Nissi said her focus remains on consistency and self-belief. “All my life, I’ve been in male-dominated industries and my ethos has always been to keep putting in the work, being your best, and remembering that no one can do it the way you do,” she said.

Spotify’s recognition of Nissi highlights her growing influence in both the African and global creative sectors, underscoring the increasing presence of women who are shaping the continent’s cultural and technological landscape.