Top 5 African Female Artists – 2014

Overshadowed by the media’s perception of dirty streets, crumbling economy, and starving children, Africa nonetheless enjoys and continues to create and develop music masterminds and trendsetters. As a universal language, music has the ability to tap into emotions, provide escape, and unify people. There is little doubt that music can transform, inspire and create a chain reaction that will never cease. Uncommon in many African countries till recent years, female musicians have revolutionized the music industry and paved the way for many.

Here are my current top 5 African Female Artists:

1.      Tiwa Savage

As a member of one of Africa’s best music record label – Mavin Records – Tiwa Savage along with producer Don Jazzy have revamped Afro-beats. Bursting onto the African music scene in 2010 with her hit Kele Kele Love, Savage’s impressive vocal range and captivating stage presence elevated her to the top of Nigeria’s music industry. Tiwa procured an endorsement deal with Pepsi – making her the first African female artist to be associated with the Pepsi brand and has been named one of Nigeria’s fashionable icons. Together with Mavin Records, it is impossible to disregard the widespread musical impact of Tiwa Savage both in Africa and the diaspora. The Mavin troops are currently invading the United Kingdom from press conferences to playing at the O_2.

 

2.      Di’Ja

As a Sierra Leonean Nigerian recording artist, fashion designer, and songwriter, Hadiza Blell better known as Di’Ja is the fresh face of Mavin Records. Infusing her multicultural background, Di’ja’s artistry represents the diversity and intricacy of African music. Integrating Hausa and Krio dialects not only expands her fan base but honors and celebrates her heritage. I found out about Di’ja when she was featured on “Dorobucci” a sensational sound that has everyone grooving and has gone on to be featured in other Mavin hits like “Adaobi”. Prior to joining Mavin Records, Di’ja released several successful singles and won Beat Music Awards’ Best New Artist- this is just the tip of the iceberg for Di’ja. Check her new single: Awww.

 

3.      Victoria Kimani

African Girl in America– a common terminology coin by Victoria Kimani, a Kenyan-American artist whose music repertoire includes collaborations with Mario Winans, Cassie, Chris Brown, Diggy Simmons, Timbaland, Konvict Music and countless artists and producers worldwide. As the 1^st Lady of Chocolate City Records, Kimani is at the top of her game and her passion transcends into her philanthropic work as an Ambassador for Agriculture in Africa. As an avid consumer of music, I find it a blessing when fame does not overshadow purpose, when influencers utilize their platform for change and development but most importantly to instill hope and encouragement.

 

 4.      Lira

Perhaps one of South Africa’s most soulful voices, Lira’s music blends soul, funk, and elements of jazz that has consumers begging for more.  Her soulful crafts have been making waves through the U.S. for years beating out the likes of Beyoncé and Celine Dion with her title track All My Love and concert DVD Live in Concert: A Celebration respectively. Having attracted fans beyond South Africa she now armed to take the US with the release of her new album Rise Again. Lira credits her musical crafts to the struggles of her people during Apartheid South Africa and believes music changed her world by easing the discomfort. Lira has the most successful social media presence amongst female African artists having appeared on numerous magazine covers. She is also the top selling vocalist in South Africa and was featured on the FIFA world cup theme song; if you haven’t heard her music, I suggest you do so immediately.

Oh and a little side note – Lira’s drummer – J Star loves AFR Clothing Tees :).

 

 

5.      Rebecca Acheampong

Famously known as Becca is a Ghanaian sensation whose 2007 debut album Sugar and single You Lied to Me earned her several music nominations and awards. Becca is associated with notable artists like Hugh Masekela- South Africa’s jazz guru, 2 Face Idibia, Kwabena Kwabena and many more. Her undisputed talent outside music has made the highest paid female actress in Africa and she uses her platform to fight and raise awareness for children affected by HIV/AIDS in Ghana. Her humanitarian efforts bring hope to these kids and nothing warms my heart like smiling happy kids.

 

 

There is more to Africa than what is portrayed in the media, make it a mission to learn more and have fun doing it by starting with African fashion and music.

 

Happy Holidays and More Coming in 2015.