African Music Library

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Ayo Vincent

Nigeria |1980| English

Ayodele Enitan Vincent, better known as Ayo Vincent, is a Nigerian gospel artist, worship leader, and author. Starting her musical journey at 8, she excelled in school and church choirs. Graduating with a degree in Economics, she thrived in the Believers Love World Campus Fellowship and Graces Vibez band. Ayo began professionally with Inner Fire Entertainment, later joining the Christ Embassy Choir, where she became Zonal Music Director. Releasing her debut album "I Am Yours" in 2012, she gained international recognition. Her hit single "You Are Great" won awards and garnered over a million views on YouTube, solidifying her status in the gospel music scene.

James Deacon

South Africa |1997| English

James Deacon is a South African singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His musical journey began with writing and experimenting with live gigs alongside his brother. In 2018, he inked a recording deal with Bad Future Records, leading to the release of his debut EP, "The Calling," in 2019. James Deacon has been showcasing his prowess in alternative pop, gaining radio recognition since the EP's launch. Also, his single "Overdrive" was chosen for GMC's North American 2023 Campaign soundtrack, earning him additional online acclaim and support.

Adeolu Akinsanya

Nigeria |1928| Yoruba

Adeolu Akinsanya, also recognized as Baba Eto was a celebrated highlife musician from Nigeria, known for his satirical compositions, particularly those related to the female gender. He made a significant contribution to the world of music by inventing the Agidigbo music instrument, which he crafted as a box guitar with strings, marking the inception of his musical career. Adeolu Akinsanya initially formed the Rancho Boys Orchestra, which disbanded in 1952. Two years later, in 1954, he established the Adeolu Akinsanya and Western Toppers Band, a full-fledged highlife band. He regularly graced the stage at the Western Hotel in Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos, leaving an indelible mark on the local music scene. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1987.

Bouqui / B.O.U.Q.U.I

Nigeria |1979| English

Bouqui, aka B.O.U.Q.U.I, with the real name Bukola Folayan, is a Nigerian gospel singer-songwriter, renowned for her faith and love for the Holy Bible, which has influenced her music style. She formed the Bouqui brand after being a member of G-Vibes, an all-female group. Bouqui set a record for the most tracks on a debut album in Nigeria with her self-titled debut album, which featured 14 tracks and four skits. Her lead single, "Get It Started," hit number one on the World Chart Show hosted by PJ Butter. She has received several awards and recognitions, including being the first female artist in Nigeria to release a double album, "Marks of A General" and "Eve of Independence", and becoming the President of Xist Music Africa.

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Explore Bands

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éVoid

Inactive | English | South Africa

éVoid was a prominent South African afro-rock, pop, jive, dance, and punk band in the 1980s. Originally known as Void, the band was founded in 1977 by...

West African Rhythm Brothers

Inactive | Yoruba | Nigeria

West African Rhythm Brothers was the most popular African band in London in the late '40s and ‘50s. Since the band was led by Ambrose Campbell, it was...

Tweak

Inactive | English | South Africa

Tweak was a South African alternative rock band formed in late 1998 with members Garth Barnes, Mike Stott, and Chris Brink. They released their debut ...

Ghetto Luv

Inactive | English | South Africa

Ghetto Luv is an all-female Kwaito group composed of Goddess, Venus, Chocolate, and Rasta Queen. Known for their provocative style, they gained fame w...

Blogs

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Music Snippets: A Trend in The Nigerian Industry

By Josplay | 2/18/2025 | General

The release of music snippets has proven to be a smart and successful marketing tactic for Nigerian music artists. This has been a reoccurring trend to create anticipation before the official release of a new song.

Jimi Mbaye: Adieu, the legendary Senegalese guitarist!

By Josplay | 2/17/2025 | People

Legendary Senegalese guitarist Jimi Mbaye dies at age 67.

Happy Valentine Day

By Josplay | 2/14/2025 | General

Wishing a Happy Valentine Day

Inkanyezi (Live) EP by Sjava … where Soul meets Intricate Storytelling

By Josplay | 2/13/2025 | Reviews

Inkanyezi (Live) EP by Sjava, recorded at the South African State Theatre, captures his powerful storytelling and emotive performances. The five-track project showcases Sjava vocal prowess and explores the complexities of romance, from joy to heartbreak.

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.