African Music Library

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Abderrahmane Abdelli

Algeria |1958| Berber

Abderrahmane Abdelli is a singer-songwriter from Algeria. His music blends traditional Algerian music with modern styles like jazz, rock, and electronic music. Abdelli released his debut album, "Khali," in 1986, which was well-received and established him as a pioneer of Algerian music. His lyrics, mostly in the Berber language, deal with themes such as identity, exile, and the struggle for freedom, promoting Algeria's cultural heritage and giving a voice to the Berber people. Abdelli has collaborated with renowned musicians, including Peter Gabriel, Robert Plant, and Sinead O'Connor, and his music has been featured in film soundtracks. Abdelli's unique style and innovative approach have earned him fans worldwide, inspiring and influencing musicians with his message through music.

Elaine

South Africa |1999| English

Ndivhuwo Elaine Mukheli, simply known by her stage name Elaine, is a talented R&B singer and songwriter from South Africa. Elaine began working on her music career and self-released her debut EP, "Elements," in September 2019. Elements" became a sensation and reached No.1 on both the national iTunes and Apple Music album charts, making Elaine the first independent female artist in South Africa to achieve this feat. Despite her young age, Elaine has already made a significant impact on the music industry.

Aubrey Qwana

South Africa |1993| Zulu

Aubrey Qwana, a South African rap artist known professionally by his birth name, is also a singer, arranger, record producer, and designer. Though little is known about the popular artist's background Qwana has proved himself to be one who has come to stay in the South African music scene. He made his debut with several hits, each single released on the heels of the other with "Ngaqonywa" breaking the glass ceiling. Qwana has also collaborated with other major artists such as Sho Madjozi, DJ TIRA and others.

Chidinma

Nigeria |1991| English

Chidinma Ekile, simply known as Chidinma, is an award-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter. She rose to fame after winning the third season of Project Fame West Africa in 2010. Chidinma is best known for her hit song "Emi Ni Baller", which made her the first female musician to reach No. 1 on the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 Chart. She has released several albums and hit singles. She's received numerous awards and recognition. Recently, Chidinma transitioned to the gospel genre.

Unlimited L.A

Nigeria |1987| Yoruba

Oluwasegun Olalekan Buari, known as Unlimited L.A., is a renowned Nigerian music video director. He began his journey with DJ Tee's support and honed his skills through an internship. In 2009, he directed his first music video for Black Magic's "Rainbow" and achieved a breakthrough with Sean Tizzle's "Sho Lee." Collaborating with top artists, especially Olamide, he earned accolades like Best Director at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. His creativity shone with nominations at the All Africa Music Awards and The Headies in 2016. In 2017, he proudly accepted Best Director at the City People Entertainment Award, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

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Chief I.I. Ayeni & his Group

Inactive | English | Nigeria

Chief I.I. Ayeni & his Group were a celebrated musical ensemble hailing from Nigeria. Flourishing in the 1970s and 1980s, they made significant contri...

Acatears

Active | English | South Africa

Acatears is a South African singing and music-producing duo comprising Rebaballetswe Selematsela and Sipho Hlanguza. They released their single Kea Ts...

War-Head Constriction

Inactive | English | Nigeria

War-Head Constriction was a prominent Nigerian band that emerged during the 1970s. With a blend of psychedelic rock and Nigerian influences, they quic...

Dobble

Inactive | Akan | Ghana

Dobble Duo was a dynamic musical partnership that originated in Ghana. This vibrant duo has carved a niche in the African music scene. The group is co...

Blogs

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EARLY DAYS OF NIGERIAN MUSIC DISTRIBUTION – ALABA INTERNATIONAL MARKET

By Josplay | 3/28/2025 | Reviews

One cannot describe early Nigerian music distribution without mentioning Alaba International Market. Located in Lagos, Alaba boys played a crucial role in pushing Afrobeats and other genres into mainstream consciousness.

Danski: In The Beginning EP - A Compelling Entry

By Josplay | 3/26/2025 | Reviews

Kenyan rising star Dan Mutinda, professionally known as Danski delivers his highly anticipated five-track project, In the Beginning.

Josplay, Opus Music Africa partner to elevate East African music

By Josplay | 3/24/2025 | Company News

Beyond licensing and streaming, this partnership is a joint investment in visibility, discovery, and fair compensation.

BEEF IN AFRICAN HIP HOP – FUEL FOR THE CULTURE OR JUST JABS?

By Josplay | 3/23/2025 | General

Hip-hop has always thrived on competition, and beef has been a central element of the genre. But is this beef a fuel for the culture or just for jabs?

About AML

African Music is rich, yet misunderstood and inaccurately represented. AML is on a mission to change that.

African Music Library is the world's most comprehensive knowledge base for African Music.

The Library is supported by a team of musicologists, engineers and literary experts committed to closing the knowledge gap and codifying African music for better participation in the digital economy.