Nigeria’s Teni named Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for August

Spotify says the move forms part of an ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and equality in the music industry and celebrating talented female artists from diverse backgrounds.

Teni joins the ranks of fellow female African acts like Ayra Starr, Aṣa, Gyakie, Somi, DBN Gogo and Soraia Ramos among notable alumni of the initiative which was launched in April 2021. Beneficiaries of the programme have been featured on the DSP’s Times Square billboard in New York, with their songs leading the Equal Africa playlist and being added to the Equal Global playlist.

“We are delighted to have Teni as our EQUAL Africa programme ambassador for August,” Spotify’s head of music for sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, said. “The uniqueness of her music, dedication to her craft and growing fandom truly spotlight her as an inspiration in the African music scene.

“Celebrating Teni and her musical journey definitely aligns with our commitment to recognising the unique experiences of female artists through their music from all corners of the continent.”

Reacting to the announcement, Teni said: “To be honest, it’s not easy, but thanks to initiatives like the EQUAL programme which helps to spotlight more female talents, we can make more progress. I’ll keep using my platform to push and make space for opportunities like these to help more female talents to thrive.”

Teni, whose sound blends Afrobeats, pop, R&B and more, first came to mainstream notice in 2017 with ‘Fargin’ and has since built an impressive catalogue with popular tracks such as ‘Wait’, ‘Askamaya’, ‘Billionaire’ and ‘For You’. Her recent release ‘No Days Off’, heralds a new album due this fall.