Popular music in Africa

3 Nov 2017 - 11:29

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

The music business wouldn’t amount to much if it wasn’t for popular music. Although popular music can be defined by a gamut of sounds and influences, it is most recognisable by its commercial appeal. It is also generally the kind of music most enjoyed by young people, who like to witness new trends and styles in the making.

Wizkid is one of Africa's most successful pop artists.

Popular artist are at the forefront of musical innovation, employing the latest sounds as well as traditional elements to appeal to a mass audience. In Africa, the popular music industry has come a long way with many artists finding success while building powerful brands in the process. And the world is taking notice of Africa’s pop musicians, many of whom are being invited to be part of collaborations with their American and European counterparts.

Some even say that Western artist are running out of fresh ideas and looking towards Africa – often referred to as the ‘source’ – to take their music to the next level. Nigerian Afrobeats and the artists associated with the genre is one such example. Even in Africa, popular artists from all corners of the continent are increasingly involving themselves in collaborations and in the process forging a new sound that is noticed, and sometimes copied, by the rest of the world.

Popular music is also inextricable from video production, fashion and marketing – industries that work hand in hand with the artists to provide fans with enthralling products. There is no doubt that popular music in Africa is flourishing and will continue to grow from strength to strength in the foreseeable future.

Music In Africa’s coverage of the popular music scenes in various African countries continues with full force. We commission and publish Overview texts that provide valuable insight into the key popular genres across the continent. Our News, Features and Reviews sections also cover the hottest African acts currently operating on the continent and abroad. We will be updating this page as the month of November progresses, so make sure you check in every day to find links to the latest articles we have published.

Overview texts