Being Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador is an Empowering Step Forward—Gyakie

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Ghanaian R&B and Afro-fusion sensation, Jackline Acheampong, professionally known as Gyakie, has described her selection as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador for September 2025 as “an empowering step forward on the staircase I’ve been climbing.”

It is the second time the music act is being listed on the programme designed to showcase the talents of female singers in the showbiz industry. The Kumasi-born songbird expressed her excitement at this, saying “I am super honoured.”

Since its launch, Spotify’s EQUAL Africa initiative has continued to champion women artists through global partnerships, activations, new content experiences, and both on- and off-platform support, all aimed at fostering equity in audio and celebrating women’s contributions to music.

“At Spotify, we are committed to amplifying the voices of women in music, and Gyakie’s return to the programme represents exactly why the EQUAL Africa programme exists.

“Her talent, artistry, and determination continue to inspire a new generation of listeners across the continent and beyond.

“We’re proud to spotlight her this month as she takes another big step in her journey with the release of her debut album,” the Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa at Spotify, Ms Phiona Okumu, stated.

Gyakie first captured hearts worldwide with her breakout hit “Forever” and has since continued to leave her mark on the global music stage. Recently listed on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 as one of the continent’s sharpest young leaders, she is also the daughter of legendary Highlife icon Nana Acheampong, giving her artistry deep musical roots. She recently released her much-anticipated debut album “After Midnight,” which has further solidified her place as one of Africa’s most exciting voices.

Her journey began in 2019 while studying International Business at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, proving her dedication to balancing education with her passion for music.

Gyakie said she “grew up listening to my dad, Nana Acheampong, alongside icons like Nina Simone, Sade, Asa, Louis Armstrong, Lucky Dube, Etta James, Notorious B.I.G., Jill Scott, Peter Tosh, and Nana Ampadu.”

“Their mix of highlife, soul, reggae, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop shaped my sound and the way I express myself through music today,” she noted, adding that, “I realised that music making was in my destiny when I recorded my very first song, Love is Pretty.”