Spotify is celebrating two rising African music stars. Nigerian Afrobeats singer Fola and South African DJ Thakzin have joined Spotify’s RADAR Africa program for 2025. This shows Spotify’s plan to support the next big names in African music.
Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, said RADAR is more than a platform. She called it a launchpad for new artists to reach fans worldwide. “From Lagos to Johannesburg, RADAR celebrates the diversity of talent on the continent, offering artistes equal access to global audiences,” she said.
Fola, whose real name is Folarin Odunlami, became popular through his freestyles online. His music mixes Afrobeats with strong storytelling. His EP What A Feeling, with Bella Shmurda on “Who Does That,” showed his talent. He has also worked with BNXN, Magixx, and BhadBoi OML. Sharing his joy, Fola said, “Looking at where I’m coming from, I see every opportunity as a blessing… I want everyone who listens to at the very least, recognise that they’re witnessing the early days of something truly special.”
Thakzin grew up in Ivory Park, Johannesburg. He was surrounded by jazz, kwaito, and drums. His 2023 song “The Magnificent Dance” made him popular in South Africa. His remix of DJ Kent’s “Horns In The Sun” went viral and took his music to global fans.
Thakzin’s style blends traditional drums with rich sounds. Spotify believes both Fola and Thakzin will take African music higher and promises to support them on their journey.
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