Kenyan music is something you live, not just listen to.

You may be singing along to Bensoul’s soulful ballads on your morning commute or breaking into dance at a live Arbantone set. Either way, something's clear that fans are the real MVPs.

The year 2025 is here, and the audience are shaping the scene. Artists may bring the beats, but the listeners are the heartbeat of it all.

From Benga to Arbantone: The Soundtrack of Your Life

Remember when Kapuka and Genge ruled the airwaves? Back then, everyone was shouting “Hii ni Genge!” and we couldn’t get enough.

Then Gengetone turned up, wild and unapologetically loud, leaving the streets breathless!

So, what now? Arbantone is here, blending that street vibe with Afro-fusion finesse—and it’s all happening because the fans demand music that resonates with who they are today.

They’ve pushed artists to keep evolving. It’s why every playlist feels like a perfect blend of nostalgia and something fresh.

The Revolution Will Be Streamed

If you’re anything like us, you’ve got a go-to app for your Kenyan music fix. Maybe you’re vibing on Spotify or rocking Boomplay, but let’s give props to homegrown gems like HustleSasa and Mdundo.com. These platforms weren’t made in Silicon Valley—they were made for the lovers of good music. Serving local bops, easy access, and fair support for the most loved artists.

The listeners have made streaming the main stage of music discovery. The rest of the world is watching. Kenyan music has a spotlight like never before, and that’s thanks to every click, stream, and share.

Festivals: The Playground of Sound

Music festivals in Kenya are about living them, as much as hearing all the favorite jams. The superfans packed the grounds of Sol-Fest, danced under the sun at Blankets and Wine, and explored new vibes at niche events that feel tailor-made for their unique taste.

The festival scene is thriving because of them. They’ve made it a tradition to turn up, show love, and make these events unforgettable. Even the International acts are coming for the energy served by the never-silent fans.

Big Issues, Bigger Voices

Kenyan artists have always used music to tell Kenyan stories. But now, more than ever, they’re speaking to the struggles the Kenyans feel daily—job cuts, climate change, and even mental health. When you relate to a song, you share it. When lyrics hit home, you sing them louder. And this is what keeps the conversation going, from social media to protest rallies.

So the music is now a movement.

Challenges, Sure—but Nothing  Can’t Fix

We can’t ignore the hurdles. There’s still piracy, poor royalty distribution, and an industry structure that feels more “next time” than “right now.”

But the news abounds… when they buy an artist’s album, stream their latest single, or attend a live show, they’re building the future of Kenyan music. They’re showing investors, platforms, and the government that Kenyan fans don’t just consume music—they invest in it.

The Audience Own the Music Scene

Kenyan music in 2025 is happening because there’s an audience. They’ve created a culture of support, exploration, and demand that keeps pushing the industry forward.

Needless to say, the scene is theirs.

Playlists have become the new radio and a powerful way to deliver your music to fresh ears.

Landing a spot on the right playlist could mean more streams, a growing fanbase, and even catching the attention of the industry’s big players.

The question is how do you get there? What’s the secret to securing those coveted spots? Don’t worry—we’re about to break it down step by step.

But first, Why Playlists Are a Big Deal

For starters, playlists expose your music to people who are hungry for new discoveries. You have a chance to build real momentum. When you land on the right playlist, it’s like getting a backstage pass to the ears of thousands—or even millions—of listeners who love the exact vibe you’re creating.

And it’s not just Spotify we’re talking about. Apple Music, YouTube Music, Deezer—all of them have their own universe of playlists waiting to amplify your sound.

Now let’s get to the steps

Step One: Get Your Artist Profile Ready

Before you go knocking on playlist curators’ doors, make sure your artist profile is ready to impress.

First things first, get verified on platforms like Spotify for Artists or Apple Music for Artists. This simple step instantly makes you look professional.

Next, take a hard look at your bio. Is it interesting, concise, and telling your story in a way that connects with your potential fans?

Your visuals matter too—ditch the blurry selfies and upload clean, professional photos that represent your brand.

Finally, check that all your music is properly listed, with no gaps or errors. This is your digital storefront—make it shine.

Step Two: Know Your Target Playlists

Not all playlists are created equal. It’s not about getting on any playlist—it’s about finding the right ones.

Some playlists have thousands of followers but no engagement. Others are small but have listeners who care about the music being shared. There are generally three types of playlists to consider.

Editorial playlists are curated directly by platforms like Spotify, and they’re hard to crack but worth it. A placement here could catapult your music.

Independent curator playlists, on the other hand, are run by music lovers or brands and tend to focus on specific genres, making them perfect if your sound aligns.

Finally, there are algorithmic playlists, like Spotify’s Discover Weekly or Release Radar, which are based on listener behavior. To get onto these, you’ll need to show consistent engagement and have fans interacting with your tracks.

Step Three: Build Relationships with Playlist Curators

Playlist curators hold the key to many independent playlists, and building genuine relationships with them can open doors.

Start by researching curators who create playlists in your genre. You’ll find them on platforms like SubmitHub or PlaylistPush, and many are active on social media.

When you reach out, keep it personal.

Address them by name, mention the playlist you love, and explain why your track fits.

For example: “Hey [Curator's Name], I’ve been a big fan of your playlist, [Playlist Name], especially the way you include fresh [specific genre] artists. My latest track, [Track Name], has a similar vibe, and I think it would fit perfectly. Here’s the link if you’d like to check it out: [URL]. Thanks for considering!”

Keep it short, authentic, and respectful. And if they don’t respond, a polite follow-up in a week or two can work wonders.

Step Four: Use Playlist Submission Tools

You don’t have to rely on manual pitches. Platforms like Spotify let you submit tracks directly to their editorial team.

Head into your Spotify for Artists account and use the playlist submission tool to pitch unreleased tracks.

Be thoughtful about the way you describe your music—include the mood, instruments, and overall vibe. Every little detail counts.

If you want even more reach, platforms like SubmitHub or PlaylistPush connect you with independent playlist curators for a small fee. These tools streamline the process, especially if you don’t have time to network on your own.

Step Five: Create Buzz Around Your Music

Even the best playlist pitch won’t work if there’s no excitement around your music. Start by promoting your tracks on social media and engaging with your audience directly.

Encourage your fans to save your songs to their own playlists—Spotify’s algorithms love that kind of activity.

You can also consider collaborating with other artists. Share each other’s music on your playlists and cross-promote your work. The more engagement you generate on your existing music, the more likely you are to catch the attention of playlist curators.

Step Six: Monitor and Engage

Once you’ve landed a playlist placement, don’t stop there. Keep an eye on your streaming stats through Spotify for Artists or Apple Music for Artists to see how your music is performing.

Find out which playlists are driving the most engagement and lean into those relationships. If a curator added your song, thank them directly. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in building lasting connections.

Playlists Are Just the Beginning

Securing playlist placements can feel like a grind, but it’s worth it. More than just streams, playlists are a way to introduce your music to listeners who could become lifelong fans. Start small, build genuine relationships, and focus on curating a profile that excites curators and listeners alike.

Most importantly, remember that playlists are just one piece of the puzzle. Your ultimate goal should be to turn these casual listeners into a loyal audience who’ll support you beyond the playlists—because those are the fans who make all the difference.

The contemporary African sound has evolved beyond the scope of music. It has become an unstoppable force reshaping how music and fashion collide. We’re watching icons like Wizkid and Burna Boy not only rule playlists but also dominate fashion campaigns.

But here’s the real story: the future belongs to the rising stars ready to think beyond the beat.

Cue Mascara Vibes and Skelvin, two artists who are fast becoming the new faces of this game-changing fusion.

Meet Mascara Vibes

His ability to deliver banger is undeniable. His music oozes raw energy, blending Afrobeat with highlife, and fans can’t get enough.

But there’s more to him.

Imagine him rocking a collab with a streetwear label, putting his unique edge on oversized tees and bold accessories. The dude could launch a whole movement where his beats and fashion walk hand in hand, making him the poster child for what happens when music and style collide.

Say Hi to Skelvin

If you’re all about sleek and international sounds, Skelvin’s your guy. His Afrobeat-pop mashups have global appeal, and his low-key but killer style screams high fashion. What’s next for him? Think partnerships with luxury brands—Skelvin on billboards wearing exclusive collections that merge his smooth melodies with tailored swag. Whether it’s walking runways or being the face of premium campaigns, Skelvin’s all set to turn heads.

The Big Picture

Cross-industry collaborations can open doors, create buzz, and put your name in places you never imagined. For Mascara Vibes and Skelvin, tapping into the fashion industry can be a golden ticket to next-level stardom.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Global audiences are obsessed with Afrobeats and African culture right now. Fashion brands are scrambling to align themselves with authentic, trailblazing artists. It’s a win-win. These rising stars don’t just have the potential, they are the potential.

So here’s the question: how long until we see Mascara Vibes dropping his own line, or Skelvin storming a runway?

The stage is set. The lights are on. And these two are ready to shine.

Nigeria’s entertainment industry is having a moment. And this wild success is being driven by the digital age. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Boomplay are the engines powering this industry’s global takeover.

The numbers speak for themselves: by 2025, the Nigerian entertainment sector is set to rake in over $14.8 billion.

This isn’t happening by accident. A perfect storm of innovation, collaboration, and sky-high global demand is making Nigeria the star of the show.

Think about it. Once upon a time, local creators had to fight to get their music or movies heard outside the region. But now? With a few clicks, Nigerian content is topping playlists in Los Angeles, trending in Paris, and setting Netflix charts ablaze in India. Thanks to streaming, these creators are getting the spotlight they’ve always deserved—and the world can’t get enough.

Why Digital Rules Everything

Take movies. Filmmakers now have the tech and backing to deliver top-tier films that rival Hollywood standards. The A-list Nigerian music stars are not just local heroes but global powerhouses.

But here’s the thing: this digital boom is about more than fame. It’s giving artists new ways to get paid. Subscription services? Check. Exclusive streaming deals? Double check. We’re talking multiple revenue streams that weren’t even on the table a decade ago.

The Power of Partnerships

This growth isn’t happening in a vacuum. Tech giants and creatives are teaming up, blending the best of innovation and artistry. You see it with personalized algorithms on Spotify recommending Nigerian songs to global users and social media tools giving artists direct access to fans. It’s a win-win, where creators get visibility, and tech companies tap into a cultural goldmine.

What’s Next?

If you think Nigerian entertainment has peaked, think again. With government-backed initiatives like the Creative Industry Financing Initiative (CIFI), even more funding is pouring in to give filmmakers and musicians the infrastructure they need to keep leveling up.

The future holds a lot: cutting-edge films, more viral hits, and a subscription-driven economy where Nigerian talent sits front and center on the global stage. By the end of 2025, this industry won’t just be about money—it’ll be about legacy. The legacy of a nation whose digital-first creators redefined what it means to be a global cultural icon.

Are you ready for this digital wave? Because Nigeria is surfing it all the way to the top.

It’s no longer just a ripple; African music is a wave sweeping across the globe. And if you need proof, look no further than the 2025 NAACP Image Awards. This year's nominations list has the usual suspects,with Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Tems leading the charge.

The NAACP Image Awards, known for honoring trailblazers of color in film, TV, literature, and music, has always been a big deal. But seeing African talents on this stage? It’s another level.

This year’s NAACP Awards carry the theme “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence” – and isn’t it poetic that African music is now an integral part of our stories? It’s the soundtrack of a global movement, uniting voices and cultures.

These nominations are about more than accolades. They’re about representation. They’re proof that African artistry is no longer an echo waiting for recognition; it’s a drumbeat the whole world is dancing to. And given this fact, we believe once again in the dreams of others whose craft have demonstrated strong pride in their roots. Imagine having the likes of Xpensive Peter holding his own on this platform in a near future with his afrocentric rhythms reminiscent of the golden sounds of legends such Fela and Ebenezer Obey.

When February 22 rolls around, and the spotlight hits the Pasadena Civic Centre in California, just remember: Africa brought the fire. These artists didn’t just earn their place on that stage; they’re redefining it.

So, if you’re still not paying attention to African music... we don’t know what you’ve been doing.