Forbes Africa has recently released its prestigious list of the Richest African Musicians, a testament to the burgeoning music industry on the continent. This carefully curated ranking considers a multitude of factors, including endorsement deals, concert revenue, album sales, awards, YouTube views, media coverage, investments, social media influence, and overall impact.
Let's delve into the top 10:
1. Akon (Senegalese-American) Leading the pack is Akon, a global icon with over 35 million albums sold worldwide. His influence extends beyond music, with successful entrepreneurial ventures. Akon's numerous accolades, including five Grammy Award nominations and 45 Billboard Hot 100 hits, solidify his position at the forefront of African music.
2. Black Coffee (South Africa) Hailing from the heart of South African house music, KwaZulu-Natal, Black Coffee (Nkosinathi Maphumulo) has captivated audiences globally with his innovative sound. His numerous awards and distinctive style have cemented his place as a leading figure in electronic music.
3. Hugh Masekela (South Africa) A true legend, Hugh Masekela's impact on African music is immeasurable. With over 43 albums released and collaborations with music giants like Marvin Gaye, Dizzy Gillespie, and Paul Simon, Masekela has left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
4. Don Jazzy (Nigeria) Don Jazzy reigns supreme as the richest musician in Nigeria. His journey began with early musical experiences in church, culminating in a successful career in the UK. As a renowned producer and artist, Don Jazzy has significantly shaped the Nigerian music landscape.
5. Tinashe (Zimbabwe-American) A multi-talented artist, Tinashe's journey began at a young age, with a career in modeling and early appearances in film. Her distinctive voice and captivating stage presence have garnered international acclaim.
6. Jidenna (Nigerian-American) Jidenna's unique blend of music and fashion has captivated audiences worldwide. Though initially hesitant to pursue music due to his father's desire for him to become an engineer, Jidenna ultimately embraced his passion, achieving significant success.
7. Wizkid (Nigeria) Arguably the reigning king of African music, Wizkid's global reach is undeniable. His music has resonated with international stars like Alicia Keys and Kylie Jenner, solidifying his status as a global phenomenon.
8. Davido (Nigeria) Davido's meteoric rise in the Nigerian music scene is a testament to his talent and dedication. His 2012 debut album, "Omo Baba Olowo," catapulted him to stardom, and he continues to dominate the charts with his infectious music.
9. Sarkodie (Ghana) Sarkodie's journey from underground rapper to a global icon is an inspiring story. A strong advocate for Ghanaian music, he has championed the Azonto genre and achieved numerous milestones, including being the first Ghanaian to win a BET Award.
10. Oliver Mtukudzi (Zimbabwe) With an impressive discography of 65 albums, surpassing even legendary figures like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, Oliver Mtukudzi's contribution to African music is unparalleled. His music has brought joy to audiences worldwide for over four decades.
This Forbes Africa list serves as a powerful reminder of the immense talent and global impact of African musicians. As the industry continues to evolve, these artists will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, shaping the future of African music.
