The African music industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in global popularity, with Nigerian and South African artists leading the charge. According to recent data from Spotify, these artists earned a combined $59 million in royalties in 2024, a testament to the growing demand for African sounds worldwide.
Nigerian artists took home over $38 million, more than doubling their 2023 earnings. South African artists earned $21 million, representing a 54% year-on-year increase. This substantial growth highlights the immense potential of the African music industry, with genres like Afrobeats and Amapiano gaining traction globally.
The growth of African music can be attributed to its increasing popularity on international platforms. Around 250 million user-generated playlists now feature at least one Nigerian artist, while 220 million playlists include a South African act. This expanded reach has led to a significant increase in export growth, with Nigerian artists experiencing a 49% increase and South African musicians recording a 104% growth in international streams.
As African music continues to gain global recognition, the future looks promising for artists from the continent. With Spotify’s continued support and the growing demand for African sounds, it’s likely that artists will see even greater returns in the years to come. The success of artists like Burna Boy and Tyla serves as a testament to the power of African music, and it’s exciting to think about what’s next for the industry.
