Spotify, the popular online streaming platform, has named Nigerian Afro Pop artist Yemi Alade as its “EQUAL Africa Artist” for January, according to a statement from Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa. The announcement was made on Monday in Lagos.
The Spotify EQUAL Africa program is designed to support female artists and provide them with the resources they need to grow their craft and reach global audiences. The program also offers guidance and tools to help artists take their music careers to the next level.
According to Okumu, Alade is a highly talented artist who has already established a solid place in the music industry. “Spotify is looking forward to showcasing her talent to an even wider audience and working with her to further map out her success,” Okumu said.
Alade has four albums, an EP, and hit singles such as “Johnny,” “Shekere,” “Africa,” “Oh My Gosh,” and “Bum Bum” to her credit. Her performances have lit up stages across Africa, Europe, and the United States, and she has even performed for the British Royal Family.
She is the first African female Afro Pop star to hit over 100 million views on YouTube and VEVO with her smash hit single “Johnny,” which is now the most viewed video from an African female pop star ever. Additionally, Alade is multi-award winner, taking home the 2015 and 2016 MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Female Artist, and has been nominated for multiple BET and MOBO Awards.
In response to the announcement, Alade said “It is a great time to be alive, female artistes have quadrupled in number compared to a decade ago. The only thing we ask now, in this male-dominated industry, is for equal opportunities.”
