This partnership aims to equip young artistes with essential skills and knowledge to navigate their career and the music industry.

Spotify has partnered with United Masters, a global distribution platform, to support emerging artistes in Nigeria's trendsetting music scene. The three-day Fresh Finds Sessions in Lagos, Nigeria focuses on collaborative recording sessions with music education and media training.

The event, driven by the need for artiste development, aims to equip young artistes with essential skills and knowledge to navigate their careers in the music industry. Day one provided emerging artistes with comprehensive tools, insights and opportunities to turn their musical aspirations into sustainable careers.

 The positive impact of artiste education

Victor Okpala, Spotify's artiste and Label Partnerships Manager for West Africa kickstarted day one of the event by introducing David Melhado, Vice President of Music and Marketing at United Masters. Melhado highlighted the partnership's significance, underscoring Spotify's role as a bridge between artistes and global audiences. He emphasised the shared values of the partnership and how important it is to the core mission of empowering independent artistes to succeed in the competitive music industry.

During the Q&A session with Jodie Tabisher, Spotify's artiste and Label Partnerships Manager for Southern  Africa, Afro-soul artiste Wurld, shared valuable insights into music career management. He highlighted the importance of artistes understanding the business side of music, adding: “Being able to understand the business, to communicate with your manager to make the best decisions together is very important.” Consistency, he emphasised, is a part of the craft that sets a great musician apart from the rest.

"It's important to keep an open mind,” Wurld advised. “You never know when you are going to make the next hit record. Just showing up is one of the key things.”

Collaboration will always be the key to growth

“From Streetpop to Afrobeats and beyond, Nigeria has established itself as a powerhouse of exquisite African music. Playlisting and platforming are key tools to turn today’s underground sensations into the next superstars,” says Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa.

The highlight of the day was the Fresh Finds recording sessions, where artistes, songwriters, and producers collaborated in the studio. Young producers Yosa and Saszy worked alongside songwriter olayinka ehi. Emerging artistes Dhee Drey, Jomanie, Salle, and Azia also spent time turning musical ideas into potential breakthrough tracks.

Through strategic collaborations, immersive training, and targeted artiste promotion, Spotify continues to be a forerunner, amplifying emerging Nigerian talent and connecting them to global audiences.

Phiona Okumu said, while speaking on Spotify’s unwavering support for artistes across Africa “Spotify will continue to back musicians at every stage of their journey, empowering them to grow, evolve, and continue to reach new heights in the industry.”

Spotify's Fresh Finds Africa Playlist continues to play a crucial role in platforming emerging artistes. It is one of many gold mines where enthusiasts can search for experimental sounds, and artistes can connect with audiences eager to hear their stories.

To experience the talent and crisp sounds that emerged from the Fresh Finds Sessions, follow the Fresh Finds Africa playlist.