Benjamin A.D. is a growing phenomenon in the UK music scene, blending the raw energy of grime with the soulful depth of classic R&B. Growing up in Lewisham, he was immersed in the vibrant world of grime music, but his true passion lay in crafting a more introspective and melodic sound. 

Influenced by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Erykah Badu, Benjamin's music is a captivating fusion of old-school soul and contemporary hip-hop. His unique blend of genres has earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

The global pandemic of 2020 provided Benjamin with an opportunity to slow down and reflect on his music and career. This period of introspection led to the creation of amazing projects like Oxytocin (2020) and Thinking Out Loud (2021), which were personal and powerful works.

One of the most striking aspects of Benjamin A.D.'s music is his unwavering commitment to his own artistic vision. He refuses to conform to trends or expectations, instead focusing on creating music that resonates with his soul. His ability to stay true to himself is a testament to his talent and dedication.

His EP Ultra Rare  is a powerful demonstration of this individuality. Tracks like "Fake it till you don't make it" and "Soul Plug" showcase his introspective storytelling style and unique musical vision.  Also, his feature with Wretch 32 and Lil Simz— Black and British— released October 2024, is a reflection of his emotive lyricism. 

As Benjamin continues to evolve as an artist, it's clear that he has the potential to make a significant impact on the UK music scene. With his unique blend of soul, grime, and hip-hop, he is poised to become one of the most exciting artists to emerge from London. 

There are only a few emerging artists who shine as brightly and authentically as Leonie Biney. This rising star, who first captured hearts with her viral track Beach Song (Demo), is not just another artist riding the TikTok wave—she's redefining bedroom pop while staying unapologetically herself.

TikTok: A Platform for Virality and Connection

Leonie’s story is a testament to TikTok’s unparalleled power in the music industry today. The platform, often underestimated by traditional gatekeepers, has become a launchpad for burgeoning artists like Leonie, giving them the visibility they might not achieve through conventional routes. When Leonie casually posted a video of herself singing Beach Song from her student dorm, she had no idea it would reach 1.6 million people. Within days, the song had amassed 100k views, and her life began to change.

TikTok thrives on authenticity, and Leonie embodies that ethos. Her raw, unpolished performances resonate with an audience tired of overly curated content. The platform has democratized music discovery, allowing talents like Leonie to bypass the traditional barriers of entry into the industry. For Leonie, TikTok didn’t just bring views—it opened doors, landing her a spot on Kamal’s national tour and collaborations with esteemed producers like Benny Sings.

Bedroom Pop: A Genre of Intimacy and Experimentation

Leonie’s music is firmly rooted in the bedroom pop genre—a style that gained prominence during the pandemic as artists turned to DIY methods to create music. Bedroom pop is more than just a genre; it’s a movement. It’s music made for the sake of expression, often stripped of high-budget production and glitzy over-polishing. Leonie’s journey mirrors this ethos, creating tracks that are deeply personal and introspective.

In her EP It Could Have Been Nice, Leonie explores the vulnerabilities of young adulthood, blending dreamy instrumentals with raw emotions. The deluxe edition, released a month later, offers stripped-back versions of her songs, showcasing her artistry in its most unadulterated form. Leonie’s sound has the warmth of Clairo’s early work and the emotional resonance of Beabadoobee, two artists she credits as inspirations.

From Ghana to England: A Cultural Tapestry

Leonie’s story is as much about cultural exploration as it is about music. Having spent her early years in Ghana before moving to England, she carries a blend of influences that shape her perspective. While she insists her sound isn’t overtly tied to her heritage, her experience as a Black British artist undeniably impacts how her music is received.

“I’ll see comments like, ‘It’s so nice seeing a young Black girl writing songs and making music like this,’” Leonie shares. It’s not just her music that’s breaking barriers—it’s the space she’s carving out for herself and others who refuse to be confined by stereotypes.

Virality vs. Sustainability

Interestingly, Leonie isn’t chasing viral fame. She appreciates the success of Beach Song but values her creative integrity above all. “I almost like the fact that I’m Making You Coffee and Summer didn’t go viral,” she admits. For her, music is about authenticity, not algorithms.

This grounded approach sets her apart in an era where virality can be both a blessing and a curse. Leonie’s gradual rise allows her to refine her craft and build a genuine connection with her audience. “Now I’m on a slow incline, which I think is healthy for me,” she reflects.

What’s Next for Leonie Biney?

5 days ago, (November 20 2024) she released a new single “If U Leave Me”, which is also a showcase of her pop prowess, the ability to create relatable lyrics and connect with the audience. 

Leonie’s journey is just beginning. With her EP It Could Have Been Nice offering a glimpse into her life from ages 16 to 19, she’s already proven her ability to capture universal emotions with striking relatability. Her first headline gig and collaborations with global producers signal a promising future.

TikTok may have been the catalyst for Leonie’s rise, but her talent, authenticity, and commitment to her art will undoubtedly sustain her career. Bedroom pop has found its next star, and we’re all lucky to be along for the ride.

Leonie’s story reminds us that in a world dominated by fleeting trends, there’s still power in honest storytelling and genuine connection. Whether you’re a fan of indie tunes, a TikTok enthusiast, or just someone looking for music that speaks to the soul, Leonie Biney is one to watch. Don’t sleep on her—this is only the beginning.

At just 19 years old, Flowerovlove is redefining indie-pop with a sound that radiates positivity, nostalgia, and self-discovery. Known offstage as Joyce, this South London artist taps into the joys and struggles of girlhood, crafting melodic bedroom pop that feels like an invitation to a brighter, more idealistic world. Her latest EP, ache in my tooth, is a testament to her ability to blend whimsical creativity with deeply relatable themes.  

More than a catchy moniker, the name Flowerovlove captures the essence of her artistry. "Flowers represent growing and blossoming as a person but also the power of womanhood," she explains, "and love represents spreading love." This philosophy infuses every note of her music, creating a safe haven for listeners navigating the complexities of growing up in a fast-paced, digital age.  

The Evolution of Flowerovlove’s Sound  

Flowerovlove’s journey began with her debut EP, Think Flower, a vibrant mix of hazy psychedelic soul, featuring standout tracks like Malibu. This early hit revealed her lo-fi trap and rap influences, offering a glimpse into her willingness to experiment with her sound.  

In 2022, she expanded her repertoire with A Mosh Pit in The Clouds, a dreamy collection of songs characterised by roving guitars and hazy vocals. This EP captured the nervous excitement of youth, whimsical adventures with friends, and the transformative joys of self-expression. Earlier this year, she released the single Love You, co-written with her brother Wilfred, which celebrated universal love beyond romance.  

Each release reflects Flowerovlove’s growth as an artist and individual. Her confidence and self-assuredness, cultivated during the isolation of lockdown, shine through in her music. "Spending time with yourself and learning to trust your gut are key," she shares, advice that resonates with her audience and underscores her artistic journey.  

From Music to Fashion  

Flowerovlove’s distinct identity has caught the attention of not only music lovers but also the fashion world. Her effortless style and authenticity have landed her at the forefront of creative industries. She has graced the stages of London and Paris Fashion Week and modeled for Gucci, seamlessly blending her musical artistry with her striking fashion sense.  

What’s Next for Flowerovlove?  

With her latest EP earning critical acclaim and an ever-growing fanbase anticipating her next release, Flowerovlove is poised to leave a lasting impact on the indie-pop scene. Her music serves as a reminder that even in the hustle of modern life, there’s always room for joy, reflection, and self-expression.  

As Flowerovlove continues to blossom, she invites listeners to join her on a journey of discovery, connection, and unparalleled creativity. This is just the beginning for South London’s indie-pop prodigy, and the world is ready to watch her bloom.  

As East Africa’s music scene continues to flourish, the region is quickly emerging as a major hub for R&B. With artists like Karun, Xenia Manasseh, Tofa Jaxx, and Ceee setting the stage, East African R&B is on the rise. Joining these remarkable talents is Mombasa’s own Caleb Awiti, who has been making waves with his distinctive sound that fuses smooth vocals and trap-inspired beats. 

Based in Mombasa, Caleb Awiti is one of the most promising voices in East African R&B. His latest track, *Digestive’s Interlude*, is a testament to his talent. With rich, sensual vocals and hypnotic beats, Caleb navigates themes of infatuation, love, and heartbreak with a unique approach that’s been captivating listeners across the region. His music is both refreshing and deeply layered, with each new project building upon the last—from *Ex-tape* to *Mombasa’s Lover Boy*. Caleb’s meticulousness and ability to balance sonic consistency with subtle experimentation show his versatility and potential as an artist. 

A Rising Star with Roots in Mombasa

Born and raised in the coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya, Caleb Awiti’s journey to music started with humble beginnings. Growing up in Nyali, he was influenced by a family that encouraged freedom in choosing his path. Music was ever-present in his household, with his mother’s love for diverse artists such as Michael Jackson, Don Moen, and Diamond shaping his early exposure. This passion, combined with a growing collection of song lyrics and memories, laid the groundwork for Caleb’s artistic expression.

Caleb fondly remembers helping his mother fix CDs and feeling the joy that music brought to her. From a young age, he aspired to create something equally meaningful, leading him to write songs and document his experiences in notebooks. What began as a creative outlet for teenage experiences evolved into a deep-seated passion for music, setting Caleb on a path he couldn’t have predicted.

From Personal Expression to Public Debut

Caleb’s early relationship with music was private—he made songs for himself, expressing a range of emotions without seeking public validation. But in June 2019, he released *Messed Up*, his first public track, which marked the start of his journey into the professional music world. This release would be the first step in a career that would only continue to evolve.

Influences and Style

Influenced by his parents’ love for diverse genres, Caleb grew up listening to artists like Sean Paul, Gym Class Heroes, Lil Wayne, Future, and Drake. But it was R&B that resonated most with him. Inspired by modern R&B icons such as Bryson Tiller and Tory Lanez, Caleb’s sound is soulful yet contemporary, embodying the energy and emotion of his influences. While he doesn’t strictly categorize his music, Caleb describes his sound as instinctual—he “just sings.” This raw approach gives his music a relatable, heartfelt quality that has resonated with listeners. 

The Creative Process

Caleb’s songwriting process is as unique as his sound. Rather than drafting lyrics on paper, he allows his ideas to flow freely, often revisiting memories or people who inspired a particular emotion. With headphones on, he immerses himself in the music, channeling emotions into each song. This process can take anywhere from one to five hours, as he carefully mixes and masters his own vocals, altering the beats until he’s fully satisfied with the end product.

Looking to the Future

Though relatively new to the scene, Caleb is deeply committed to his craft. When he’s not making music, he’s pursuing a computer science degree at Simon Fraser University, inspired by his father’s strong work ethic. For Caleb, music and academics go hand in hand, with both driving him toward his goals.

With each release, Caleb Awiti proves he’s an artist to watch. His raw talent, dedication, and vision set him apart in East Africa’s growing R&B scene. As he continues to develop his craft, Caleb is well on his way to making a lasting impact.

Africa's music is brimming with talents and innovation, blending traditional sounds with modern beats in a fusion that’s captivating listeners around the globe. One of the most exciting recent developments is the rise of Bongo Amapiano, a unique blend of South African Amapiano's deep house and jazz elements with Tanzanian Bongo Flava's soulful vibes. Among the artists pioneering this sound, Tanzanian sensation Chino Kidd, born Isaya Michael Mtambo, stands out as a true force of creativity and talent.

Chino Kidd’s journey began in the small town of Ifakara in Tanzania's Morogoro Region, where he nurtured his love for dance and music. Driven by passion and ambition, he later moved to Dar es Salaam, determined to make a name for himself in the industry. Initially recognized for his choreographic skills, he made waves as a dancer for prominent artists like Rich Mavoko and Marioo. However, Chino Kidd quickly proved that his talent extended far beyond choreography, transitioning into a musician with an undeniable flair. His breakout hit, "Zuma," not only cemented his status in the music scene but also introduced fans to his now-iconic tagline, "Chino Wanna Man."

As a growing artist, Chino Kidd has amassed an impressive following, with his work garnering over 9 million views on YouTube alone. This success is a testament to the magnetic appeal of his sound, which effortlessly combines Tanzanian rhythms with the distinct elements of Amapiano. The fusion of Bongo Flava and Amapiano creates a refreshing, infectious vibe that has become synonymous with his music.

Earlier this month, Chino Kidd released "Bongo Man," an energetic track that exemplifies his unique musical vision. Produced by S2kizzy, with contributions from South African talents Deestar ZA and DJ Awakening, "Bongo Man" is a fusion of styles that brings out the best of the genre. Chino Kidd’s performance on the track is electric, showcasing his ability to blend cultural sounds into something fresh and boundary-pushing.

In addition to his achievements as a musician, Chino Kidd’s dedication to dance remains unwavering. He was recently recognized as the Best Music Dancer of the Year at the Tanzania Music Awards in 2023, a testament to his influence across multiple aspects of the Tanzanian entertainment scene. Yet his aspirations go beyond personal success; he hopes to open a dance academy, providing a platform for young Tanzanians facing adversity to develop their talent and pursue their dreams.

As African music continues to captivate global audiences, Chino Kidd stands at the forefront, representing the power of creativity and perseverance. Through his music, he embodies the vibrant energy of Africa’s emerging talents and the boundless potential of cross-cultural fusion. With his sights set high, Chino Kidd is not only shaping the future of Bongo Amapiano but also inspiring a new generation of artists across the continent.

Born Joy Dzeremo in Benue State and shaped by the cultural scape of Kaduna, JUNO is one of the promising voices in Afro Soul and Afro Pop, bringing a blend of mesmerising melodies, vibrant voice and resonating rhythms. Her music carries the warmth and depth of African soul, layered with a modern pop appeal that’s hard to ignore. 

Recently, JUNO achieved a career-defining moment by signing with The Gamma, a visionary media and tech company led by industry heavyweight Larry Jackson. Known for cultivating global stars like Usher, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, and Sexyy Red, The Gamma has a keen eye for powerful, entrepreneurial talent. With the increasing investment pouring into African music, JUNO’s collaboration with The Gamma couldn’t come at a better time for her to captivate an international audience.

In her latest single, “Love Life,” JUNO unpacks the emotional journey of unrequited love, showcasing her raw, evocative vocals and storytelling prowess. The track, hammering on unrequited love, highlights her ability to connect with listeners, combining expressive vocals with themes that hit close to the heart. Her stage presence, fashion-forward sense, and captivating visual style add another dimension to her artistry, making her performances unforgettable.

JUNO’s signing to The Gamma, under the direction of Larry Gaaga as Vice President for Africa, underscores the world’s growing interest in African artists and their impact on global music. At a time when the rise of African female musicians such as Ayra Starr, Tyla, Amaarae, and many others, is taking the industry by storm, JUNO stands poised to make her mark. Her soulful approach and bold aesthetic position her as a standout artist in a thriving African music scene, ready to leave a lasting imprint on audiences worldwide.

Music has a unique way of revealing the complexities of life, love, and everything in between. For Gemi9 Quazeem, his latest project, Player, taps into the intricate layers of human character and the inequalities that often emerge in relationships. The inspiration for this project is deeply personal, drawn from Gemi9’s own experiences and emotions, allowing him to create music that speaks to the heart.

Growing up, Gemi9 was heavily influenced by the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti and 2Baba (2Face Idibia), two icons in Nigerian music who have left an undeniable mark on Afrobeat and Afro Soul. Their ability to tell stories through sound and rhythm shaped Gemi9's own musical journey, giving him a foundation of rich African sounds that continue to influence his work today. His EP, Definition, is a testament to these influences as it infuses lyrical depth with sonic allure. 

In his own words, "their artistry has greatly shaped my sound and artistic direction." Gemi9’s music reflects this deep connection to his roots, yet it’s layered with his personal touch—making each track feel both familiar and refreshingly new.

Every artist has a story behind their name, and for Gemi9, his stage name feels like a divine gift. “I believe it’s a source of inspiration that resonates with my true identity and purpose in music,” he shares. His name is more than just a label; it’s a reflection of the journey he’s on—one filled with passion, purpose, and creativity.

A defining moment in Gemi9’s career came during his time in higher education, where he was recognized as one of the top artists. That recognition was a turning point, affirming his passion for music and solidifying the idea that this path was meant for him. Since then, Gemi9 has continued to grow and evolve, always pushing the boundaries of his sound.

Though he enjoys writing music alone, he values the creative energy that comes from collaboration. “While I often prefer to write alone, I also value working with other creative minds,” he says. For him, collaboration isn’t just about making music—it’s about expanding his perspective and enriching the songwriting process.

Gemi9’s music falls under the genre of Afro Soul, blending traditional African sounds with soulful melodies. This fusion creates a unique and captivating listening experience. His songs are a mix of rich, earthy beats and heartfelt lyrics that capture the essence of both old and new.

“I want my music to reflect the nuances of my experiences,” Gemi9 explains. His music is not just about creating sound—it's about telling stories and connecting with listeners on a deeper emotional level.

What’s Next?

With an upcoming album in the works, Gemi9 is ready to share more of his world with fans. Though the release date hasn’t been announced, one thing is clear: Gemi9 is dedicated to giving his fans the best of himself. “I promise to continue delivering the best of myself to my fans, ensuring that each piece of content reflects my growth and dedication,” he says.

The African music scene is a pool of talent that won't stop giving. Today, we're spotlighting AraTheJay— Samuel Ankrah— a name that's steadily gaining recognition.

Getting known for his stylistic handwoven headgear, this talented artist calls his music spiritual because he believes that everything in the world has a spiritual undercurrent. Listeners will find a mix of Highlife and Afrobeats in his songs. 

AraTheJay's music is characterized by its emotive quality and thought-provoking lyrics. His lyrics, often exploring themes of faith, love, and personal growth, have a way of touching your soul and leaving a lasting impression. This might be attributed to the early influence of church on his music. He also grew up listening to Jamaican rhythms like Vybz Kartel. These early experiences shaped his sound and aesthetic. While he draws inspiration from various genres, the Sekondi-born artist remains true to his own unique style and message.

2024 has been a busy year for AraTheJay, with several tracks under his belt. His collaboration with Black Sheriff, "Jesus Christ2," has garnered attention, and other notable songs include "C'est la vie" and "Sankofa" featuring Wise Shady and Onoa amongst others. Also, his latest project, "Finding Nimo: The Capsule," is part of a larger series that aims to connect listeners to a higher purpose through music.

With collaborations with artists like King Promise and notable producers like DJ Breezy and Signal, AraTheJay has been making waves in the Ghanaian music scene while gaining the attention of listeners outside West Africa.

AraTheJay wants his listeners to take away positive messages and uplifting vibes from his music. He often expresses his love for his wife, Abena, and emphasizes the importance of faith and spirituality. Through his music, he aims to inspire and encourage others on their own journeys.

In the nearest future, he hopes to drop the deluxe version of The Capsule. Before then, music fans can check out what powerful message AraTheJay has for them in his music.