Welcome to AfroBoss Spotlight. A limited-run editorial series for Audiomack World by DJ Edu, an “African Music Ambassador,” who has been pushing young African artists to the fore since 2005 on National UK radio. Consider this column an invite into Edu’s studio and a journey to discovering new artists.

Moelogo

UK-based Moelogo’s music is heavily influenced by Afrobeats, as on Re-Upped single “Who Talk.” His voice is a sultry fusion between modern R&B and traditional Yoruba singing styles. The past year has seen Moelogo develop his own artistic voice with the release of his newest album, Itheep. However, he is still a versatile songwriter with credits on Tiwa Savage’s Celia, Kelly Rowland’s K, and Adekunle Gold’s About 30.

Eugy

Repping London and Accra, Eugy is both an extremely talented rapper and singer. His music is heavily influenced by urban sounds from the UK with a hint of hip-life and highlife from his Ghanaian background. First coming into prominence with his 2016 smash “Dance for Me” featuring Mr Eazi, Eugy has continued to connect to his roots with his stylistic blend of R&B, Afrobeats, Afro-pop, and other fusions.

Nqobilé

One of the fastest-rising South African-British performers, Nqobilé’s foundation in music is as a top Afrobeats dancer whose resume includes being featured in Davido’s “If” music video. She was inspired to become a singer by the many current South African influences and sounds, including Gqom and Amapiano. With a unique style that traces back to her roots, Nqobilé is continuing her takeover as both a dancer and singer.

Bruce Melodie

Bruce Melodie is one Rwanda’s most prominent singer-songwriters and is widely considered one of the country’s musical leaders. Highly awarded since 2014, he stays close to his heritage, fusing Rwandan musical style and culture with Afrobeats and Afro-pop, as evidenced on his song-of-the-summer contender, “Katapilla.”

Azawi

Uganda native Azawi is an Afrobeats singer-songwriter with a great ear for percussion, likely because she fell in love with music after frequenting dance festivals as a child, joining a dance troupe back in 2005. Initially starting her foray into the music industry proper as a songwriter for other artists, she’s recently stepped into her own, making music deeply inspired by her Ugandan background.

5 African Artists You Need to Know: DJ Edu’s AfroBoss Spotlight (December)