Modupe Gbadeyanka
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
New updates have been added to the Afrobeats: Journey to a Billion Streams site launched by Spotify last month, a statement from the streaming firm has disclosed.
The updated Afrobeats website showcases the genre’s constant thirst for reinvention, with research conducted on behalf of Spotify by research firm, Kuvora, finding that 90 per cent of fans expect Afrobeats to continue evolving.
The latest updates to the site explore the evolution of Afrobeats through three distinct eras of creativity that laid the foundation for Afrobeats’ connection to global audiences.
From the early era of Hip Hop-influenced but locally rooted sounds to the infusion of foreign influences and local lyrics and the definitive hits that marked pivotal moments, the website provides a comprehensive exploration of Afrobeats’ journey.
The evolution story also explores the key figures who have played significant roles in shaping and propelling Afrobeats forward.
From trailblazers like 2Face Idibia, P-Square, and Wande Coal to influential women such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, these artists have defied stereotypes, broken barriers, and taken Afrobeats to unprecedented heights.
Afrobeats evolved from its early origins in Ghana to become one of the fastest-growing music genres in the world.
The platform, which would be updated bi-weekly, will look into journeys from the origins of the genre, through its evolution, its fusion with different sounds right through to becoming an ambassador for African culture abroad.
“Afrobeats ascending to where it is today has taken a proverbial village. Multiple players, from the artists themselves to DJs on the continent and in the diaspora, and the very loud and proud fans have helped shape the music, which draws from an array of sonic influences.
“Today Afrobeats is an undeniable influence on global pop culture thanks to these contributors,” the Head of Music for Spotify in Sub-Saharan Africa, Ms Phiona Okumu, said.
