Redefining the Sound of Africa: Nissi’s Rise
Nigerian singer-songwriter Nissi has been unveiled as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Artist for the month of October, spotlighting her as one of many voices reshaping the sound and story of contemporary African music.
Recognized for her versatility, the 31-year-old combines Afrobeats, funk and soul in her music. She additionally has a penchant for integrating artwork and know-how in her work.
Nissi, who’s a youthful sister to Grammy-winning celebrity Burna Boy, has additionally achieved notable success in engineering and design. She was a part of the group concerned within the growth of the Bentley Bentayga SUV, making her one of many few Black girls to have contributed to a serious automotive challenge. Along with her inventive and technical work, Nissi continues to advocate for ladies in know-how and innovation.
Talking about her choice, Nissi stated being a part of Spotify’s EQUAL programme represents greater than particular person recognition.
“Being a part of the EQUAL programme means being a part of a motion that’s levelling the taking part in discipline for ladies,” she stated. “I’m past honoured to be championing a marketing campaign that amplifies our voices.”
Nissi cites artists resembling Fela Kuti, Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, Asa, and Awilo Longomba amongst her influences, describing her sound as “nostalgic but trendy.”
Spotify’s EQUAL programme helps feminine artists, giving them a worldwide platform by means of playlists, content material and the EQUAL hub. EQUAL has added greater than 6,900 feminine artists to the EQUAL playlist and has supported over 1,000 ambassadors of their house international locations. By means of EQUAL, Spotify hopes to encourage change and promote a extra inclusive music panorama throughout the globe.
Launched in April 2021, EQUAL Africa is a key element of Spotify’s EQUAL Hub, geared toward selling gender fairness within the international music business by means of curated playlists, specialised content material hubs, and collaborative efforts. Through the years, the initiative has shone the highlight on African artistes resembling Yemi Alade, Ayra Starr, Aṣa, Fave, Gyakie, Brazy, Njerae, Somi, and Amaarae.