Leading the Sounds of 2026: Africa

As we look ahead to 2026, we are spotlighting a group of artists who continue to stand out through their originality, consistency, and steady creative growth. Over the past year, each of these artists has been building real momentum through new releases, live performances, and the day-to-day work that happens behind the scenes. Leading the Sounds of 2026 is our way of recognizing the foundation they have laid while looking forward to what’s next. Based on everything we’ve seen so far, we genuinely believe these artists are positioned for a strong year ahead, and we’re proud to support them as their journeys continue. 🌍 🎵 Without further ado, here are our final picks for artists Leading the Sounds of 2026 in Africa…

Leading the Sounds of 2026: Africa

Debhie

Debhie is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and philanthropist known for her Afro‑Reggae fusion sound rooted in the musical traditions she grew up with, including reggae and Afrobeat. Singing since the age of five, she blends emotive vocals with contemporary rhythms that reflect her influences and cultural upbringing. Over the past several years, Debhie has released a range of tracks that showcase her distinctive style and growing artistry, building a dedicated audience both in Nigeria and beyond. // 🎙️ Discover more on Spotify…

Mr Dutch

Mr Dutch is a Nigerian singer-songwriter redefining Afrobeat and Afro-Pop with his electrifying sound and dynamic artistry. Known as the Afro Cyborg, he has captivated audiences with hits like Antidote, E No Finish featuring Burna Boy, and Mamacita. His music blends cultural pride with innovative soundscapes, connecting his Nigerian roots to global audiences. Mr Dutch has collaborated with artists including Kida Kudz, Reekado Banks, and Aymos, and his joint project World Citizens bridged Lagos and London’s music scenes. With tracks like Dodorima featuring the Soweto Gospel Choir and Azul Remix, he continues to push Afrobeat to new heights while solidifying his place as a leading voice in Africa’s evolving music scene. // 🎙️ Discover more on Spotify…

Sean Dampte

Sean Dampte is a UK-based Afro-Fusion artist blending Afrobeats, pop, and dancehall with high-energy performances. Born Oluwaseun Oluyole, he has amassed over 25 million streams and shared stages with artists including Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, and Mr Eazi. Known for viral tracks like Wata Bam Bam, Sinner Man, and Master On Deck (MOD), Sean continues to captivate audiences from Lagos to London. With his new album Leventis Lifestyle set for release in October 2025, he solidifies his place as a rising force in Afro-Fusion music. // 🎙️ Discover more on Spotify…

SHABA

SHABA is a Johannesburg-born R&B and neo-soul artist whose voice blends sultry vulnerability with effortless confidence. Her music explores love, self-discovery, and soulful reflection, bridging classic R&B influences with modern textures. With her breakout single surpassing one million streams on Spotify, SHABA has established herself as one of South Africa’s most promising contemporary soul voices. Known for emotional honesty and commanding presence, she continues to captivate audiences and bring South African soul to the global stage. // 🎙️ Discover more on Spotify…

Yugoszn

Yugoszn is an emotive R&B artist whose self-produced sound blends vulnerability with genre-fluid versatility. After topping the Apple iTunes charts in Switzerland and Brazil, he gained wider attention with the viral TikTok hit Tombstone, which has over 4 million streams, and his self‑titled debut EP YUGOSZN. Building on that momentum, his first solo single, Heartbreak Hotel, showcases his ability to craft deeply felt music that resonates across borders. With more than 20 million video views on TikTok and features on editorial playlists from Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, Yugoszn continues to expand his reach and solidify his place in the global R&B scene. // 🎙️ Discover more on Spotify…

Want to hear more of our favorite artists from the past year? 

Check out our ‘Best of 2025: Africa’ playlist on Spotify below…