The rise of female Afrobeats artists is a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and unmatched talent. From Lagos to Accra, these women are taking the world by storm, redefining what it means to be an African artist in the global music scene. As Black women, it’s our time to lift each other up, to recognize the voices that are breaking barriers and blazing trails in a genre that is dominating pop culture today.
In this post, we’re celebrating the top female Afrobeats artists, exploring their origins, achievements, and the unique ways they’ve impacted the music industry. These women represent the strength, beauty, and versatility of African women an inspiration for all of us.
Top Female Afrobeats Artists Making Waves
The global popularity of Afrobeats owes much to the hard work, talent, and passion of its female artists. Let’s explore some of the top stars whose influence is not only shaping African music but is also empowering Black women everywhere.
1. Tiwa Savage: The Queen of Afrobeats
Origin: Lagos, Nigeria
You can’t talk about female Afrobeats artists without crowning Tiwa Savage. Often referred to as the Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, she later moved to the UK and the U.S., where she sharpened her musical skills at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Tiwa started her career as a backup singer for stars like George Michael and Mary J. Blige before returning to Nigeria to take the Afrobeats scene by storm.
With hits like “All Over,” “Koroba,” and “Ma Lo,” Tiwa Savage has become a force to be reckoned with. Her albums, including Celia, have earned her international recognition, with accolades like an MTV Europe Music Award and an endorsement from Beyoncé. Tiwa’s bold lyrics, infectious melodies, and unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment have solidified her as one of the top voices in Afrobeats.
2. Yemi Alade: Mama Africa
Origin: Abia State, Nigeria
Yemi Alade, often called “Mama Africa,” is another powerhouse in the world of female Afrobeats artists. Born in Abia State, Nigeria, Yemi burst onto the scene after winning the Peak Talent Show in 2009, but it was her 2013 hit “Johnny” that truly catapulted her to fame. The song became a continental anthem and solidified Yemi as a leading figure in African music.
With her unique blend of Afrobeats, highlife, and traditional African sounds, Yemi has released multiple albums, including King of Queens and Woman of Steel. She’s known for her vibrant performances, energetic videos, and for consistently promoting African culture through her work. Yemi Alade’s influence extends beyond music – she’s also a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for sustainable development across the continent.
3. Simi: The Sweet Sound of Afrobeats
Origin: Lagos, Nigeria
Simi’s soft, soulful voice and poetic lyrics have made her one of Afrobeats’ most beloved artists. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Simi started her career as a gospel singer before transitioning to Afrobeats and mainstream music. Her breakout hit “Jamb Question” introduced her to a wider audience, but it was her album Simisola that truly solidified her place in the industry.
Known for blending Afrobeats with elements of soul, highlife, and R&B, Simi’s music is heartfelt and reflective, often exploring themes of love and life. Her hit singles, such as “Duduke” and “Joromi,” have touched the hearts of fans worldwide. Simi is also a producer and songwriter, showing her versatility as an artist and her commitment to creating quality music.
4. Niniola: The Queen of Afro-House
Origin: Lagos, Nigeria
Niniola Apata, better known as Niniola, is hailed as the Queen of Afro-House, a subgenre of Afrobeats that blends traditional African beats with house music. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Niniola rose to fame after participating in Project Fame West Africa in 2013. Since then, she has delivered several club bangers, including “Maradona,” which earned her international acclaim.
Niniola’s unique sound and energetic performances have earned her the title of one of Africa’s most exciting female artists. Her music is a celebration of African rhythms, and she’s become a trailblazer, bridging the gap between Afrobeats and global dance music. Niniola’s influence has extended to collaborations with international artists like Beyoncé on The Lion King: The Gift.
5. Sho Madjozi: The Tsonga Princess
Origin: Limpopo, South Africa
Sho Madjozi, born Maya Christinah Xichavo Wegerif, is a multi-talented artist from South Africa known for her vibrant music and bold sense of style. A proud representative of the Tsonga people, Sho Madjozi’s music blends Afrobeats with traditional Tsonga rhythms and gqom, a genre of house music that originated in Durban.
Sho Madjozi gained international attention with her hit single “John Cena,” which paid homage to the WWE wrestler. Her lively performances, colorful music videos, and unapologetic celebration of African culture have earned her a BET Award for Best New International Act. Sho Madjozi’s music isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about honoring her heritage and empowering young African women to embrace their roots.
6. Teni: The Entertainer
Origin: Lagos, Nigeria
Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni or Teni the Entertainer, has quickly risen to fame with her infectious personality and unique sound. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Teni first gained attention with her single “Fargin” and has since released several hits, including “Case” and “Uyo Meyo.” Known for her playful lyrics, charisma, and engaging stage presence, Teni is a breath of fresh air in the Afrobeats scene.
Teni’s music is rooted in Afrobeats, but she’s not afraid to experiment with different genres, blending highlife, pop, and R&B to create her signature sound. Her ability to craft relatable songs with catchy hooks has made her a fan favorite, and she continues to break barriers in the male-dominated Afrobeats industry.
7. MzVee: Ghana’s Afrobeats Star
Origin: Accra, Ghana
Vera Hamenoo-Kpeda, better known as MzVee, is a Ghanaian Afrobeats artist who has made a name for herself with her smooth vocals and positive messages. Born in Accra, Ghana, MzVee started her career as part of a girl group before going solo in 2014 with her debut album Re-Vee-Lation. Her music often incorporates elements of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
MzVee’s hits, including “Come and See My Moda” and “Natural Girl,” have earned her numerous awards, including Best Female Vocalist at the Ghana Music Awards. Her music speaks to self-confidence and empowerment, making her a role model for young African women.
8. Aya Nakamura: The French-Malian Star
Origin: Bamako, Mali
Aya Nakamura is one of the few Afrobeats artists to achieve massive success outside of Africa. Born in Bamako, Mali, and raised in France, Aya is known for her Afrobeat-infused pop hits that have taken the French music scene by storm. Her breakout single “Djadja” topped charts in several countries, making her a global star.
Aya’s unique blend of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B has earned her multiple accolades, including a platinum certification in France. Despite her international fame, Aya Nakamura stays true to her African roots, often incorporating Malian sounds and themes into her music.
9. Busiswa: The South African Powerhouse
Origin: Mthatha, South Africa
Busiswa Gqulu, known simply as Busiswa, is a South African singer, songwriter, and poet who has made significant contributions to Afrobeats and gqom music. Born in Mthatha, South Africa, Busiswa’s breakout hit “Ngoku” made her a household name, and her collaboration with DJ Maphorisa on “Midnight Starring” cemented her place as one of South Africa’s top female artists.
Busiswa’s music is a powerful blend of Afrobeats, house, and traditional African rhythms, and her unapologetically African style has earned her recognition on a global stage. She’s also a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, using her platform to inspire and uplift women across the continent.
Celebrating Female Afrobeats Artists
The rise of female Afrobeats artists is a testament to the talent, resilience, and passion of African women. These trailblazing women have not only made their mark on the global stage but have also empowered a generation of Black millennial women to embrace their culture, strength, and creativity. From Tiwa Savage to Busiswa, these artists are the heartbeat of Afrobeats, and their music is a celebration of what it means to be a Black woman in today’s world.
