- Overall, Africa is home to a rich collection of music styles.
- Artists are breaking new ground and putting African music on the map.
Image: BBC
Music has played an important role in human culture and society for years. It has been used as a form of expression, communication, and entertainment.
The history of music is as old as humanity itself. Archaeologists have found primitive flutes made of bone and ivory dating back as far as 43,000 years.
Here are some African countries and the unique type of sounds that are iconic to them.
Kenya-Genge
Genge music is a genre that was proudly birthed in Kenya around the early 2000s.
This music is characterized by its energetic and fast-paced beats, coupled with witty and often humorous lyrics that address various social and political issues.
Prominent names in the Genge industry include Jua Kali, Nonini, P-unit, Mejja, and Nameless among other greats.
DRC/Congo-Rhumba
Rhumba music typically features a blend of African rhythms, and jazz, with guitar, bass, drums, and brass instruments as the primary musical instruments.
It is characterized by its upbeat rhythms and use of percussion instruments.
Rhumba music typically features a fast-paced tempo and is often accompanied by slow dance movements.
Rhumba can be sang in Lingala, Swahili or French. Notable names in rhumba music include Mbilia Bel, Madilu System, Tabu ley, and Franco.
South Africa- Amapiano
Amapiano has become the signature sound of South Africa. This sound features a distinctive bassline, percussion instruments, piano melodies, and vocals that create a groovy progressive beat.
Over the years Amapiano has become one of the hottest music genres, quickly spreading across the globe and gaining huge listenership.
Notable artists in this genre include Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Kamo Mphela, Uncle Waffles, and Musa Keys among other great names.
Nigeria-Afrobeat
Afrobeat is the iconic sound of Nigeria. This sound blends multiple percussion instruments, including the drums, congas, and shakers.
Creating multiple beats or rhythms played at the same time. Afrobeat music is known for its infectious rhythms and upbeat tempo, making it highly danceable.
Great names in this genre include WizKid, BurnaBoy, Davido, Yemi Alade, Tiwa Savage, Rema, Fela Kuti, and Omah Lay among others.
Algeria-Chaabi
Chaabi music is a traditional music genre that originated in Algeria. It emerged as a fusion of various music styles, including Andalusian, Bedouin, and Berber music.
The instruments used in chaabi music include the mandolin, violin, and darbuka among other stringed and percussive instruments.
Famous chaabi artists include Abdou El Omari, Djamila, and Daoudi.
Overall, Africa is home to a rich collection of music styles.
Artists are breaking new ground and putting African music on the map.
The future of African music is as bright as ever!