The Most Famous Musicians and Singers From Across Africa

The Most Famous Musicians and Singers From Across Africa

Akon

(Senegal)

The American R&B star with Senegalese roots is hugely popular not only in the West, but in African cities and even rural villages. 

Amadou and Mariam

(Mali)

The blind couple mixes traditional Mali music with acoustic guitar, Egyptian, Cuban or Eastern sounds and even rock or electro.

Baaba Maal

(Senegal)

Baaba is one of (if not the) greatest artists in Senegal. Through his music, he educates his people and enchants us Westerners.

Ba Cissoko

(Guinea)

Traditional kora music interpreted by this group of young, modern artists. Very African, but easy to appreciate for us Westerners.

Bassekou Kouyate

(Mali)

The skillful hands of this master turn the sweet, raw sound of the guitar-like instrument ngoni into groovy desert blues music.

Bisso Na Bisso

(Congo)

When French hip hop artists honor their African roots, the result is an urban exotic, upbeat sound, that sparks of positive vibes.

Bolokada Conde

(Guinea)

This is authentic African djembe and dun dun drumming, performed and taught by a master, a traditional "djembefola". 

Dobet Gnahore

(Ivory Coast)

The temperament, energy, creativity, mystery and grace of the whole continent is injected into this amazing singer and dancer.

Koffi Olomide

(Congo Kinshasa)

Koffi's highly danceable and sensual tcha-tcho music (a sub-form of soukous) is the perfect choice for a hot summer party night.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

(South Africa)

This all-male a cappella choir is legendary: Calm and gentle voices, stunning dance moves and a message of peace, love and harmony.

Lucky Dube

(South Africa)

Lucky has taken African reggae music to another level with sensible, intelligent songs and his unique, melodious voice.

Miriam Makeba

(South Africa)

Legendary Mama Africa brought African music to the West. African classics, jazz and traditional songs in the Xhosa "click" language.

Mustapha Tettey Addy

(Ghana)

Master Drummer and promoter of kpanlogo music represents the wealth and wisdom of traditional Ghanaian drumming and healing.

P-Square

(Nigeria)

These internationally known Nigerian twins produce some of the finest African dance music for a perfect night out in the clubs.

Salif Keita

(Mali)

"The golden voice of Africa" is one of the greatest talents the continent ever produced. His voice and beats are unforgettable.

Soweto Gospel Choir

(South Africa)

The greatest talents of Soweto will touch your soul and lift your spirit with their stirring, awakening African gospel songs.

Youssou N'Dour

(Senegal)

One of the world's greatest singers and father of mbalax: Griot praise singing and traditional sabar beats with world class format.

BY MOHAMED ABDIRAHMAN