One of the best things about being an African is the music. African music has always been a melting pot of diverse sounds, cultures, and talent. We can all agree that the continent boasts globally recognized superstars. Some of them include Burna Boy, Angelique Kidjo, Davido, Wizkid, and so much more. However, there’s a new wave of underground African artistes who are shaking things up and redefining the music landscape.
These artists might not yet be household names, but they’re making serious waves in the industry. As such, they are certainly poised for major breakthroughs this year. Sit tight and let’s explore the unique sounds of SGaWD, Ria Sean, Khaid, and Picazo— artists you definitely need to keep an eye (and ear) on!
SGaWD
At the top of our list of underground African artists, we have SGaWD, who brings more than just an interesting name to the table.
SGaWD, pronounced as “Squad,” is a force to be reckoned with. With her razor-sharp lyrics, powerful delivery, and unapologetic attitude, she’s quickly carving out a niche for herself in the African hip-hop scene. I guess you can describe SGaWD’s music as a unique blend of rap, R&B, and trap, all wrapped up in her signature bold and confident style.
One thing about this underground African artist is sure: she isn’t afraid to tackle issues like gender dynamics and personal empowerment. Whether she’s collaborating with other artists or dropping solo tracks, SGaWD’s energy is undeniable, and her trajectory this year is pointing straight to the top.
Here’s one of her best songs:
Ria Sean
Another underground African artiste to look out for is Ria Sean, the epitome of sultry sophistication in the Afropop scene. With a voice as smooth as silk and a sound that blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary R&B, Ria Sean is quickly becoming a favorite among those in the know. Her music reminds me of old-school soul and modern beats, which makes her pretty unique.
If Amaarae, Simi, and Tems had a baby, its voice would sound exactly like Ria Sean’s. Her lyrical prowess shines through in every song, as she effortlessly navigates themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Her music particularly resonated with me because it has an intimate feel which draws listeners in and holds them captive with her emotive delivery. And isn’t that what good music is all about?
Take a look at one of her best songs:
Khaid
Khaid might be young, but don’t let his age fool you—he’s already making a significant impact on the African music scene as one of the best African underground artistes you can listen to this year. Well, owing to his growing popularity, he might not be so underground anymore. He already has features with Gyakie, Olamide, and other well known names in the industry.
With a fresh sound that blends elements of trap, hip-hop, and Afrobeat, Khaid is at the forefront of a new wave of artists who are redefining what African music can be. His youthful energy and innovative approach to music production make him standout in more ways than one. .
Now, the thing about Khaid’s music is that it’s all about vibe. His tracks are filled with infectious melodies, clever wordplay, and beats that make you want to move. Despite being relatively new to the scene, he’s already garnered a loyal following, and his rise shows no signs of slowing down. Keep your eyes on Khaid; he’s a game-changer in the making.
Here’s a personal favorite of mine:
Picazo
Finally, we have Picazo, one of the most creative underground African artistes to enter the spotlight this year. Picazo is the street poet of the bunch, bringing raw and unfiltered energy to his music. His journey from the gritty streets of Lagos to the studio is reflected in his lyrics, which often touch on themes of struggle, perseverance, and triumph.
Picazo’s music style is also unique. It seamlessly blends traditional Yoruba influences with contemporary sounds. This makes his sound both deeply rooted in African culture and refreshingly modern at the same time.
In my opinion, what sets Picazo apart is his storytelling ability. Each of his songs is like a chapter in a book, giving listeners a glimpse into his life and the world around him. His authenticity and passion shine through in every verse, making him one of the most relatable and compelling artists in the underground scene. As he continues to evolve and refine his sound, Picazo is definitely an artist to keep on your radar this year.
Final Thoughts
African music is the gift that just keeps on giving and these underground African artistes are a testament to that. With their unique sounds, undeniable talent, and relentless drive, they’re set to make waves not just on the continent, but globally. So, plug in your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to experience the future of African music. These artists are just getting started, and trust us, you don’t want to miss out!