The Afro House music scene, a genre rich with rhythmic beats and deep cultural roots, owes much of its vibrancy and global recognition to a group of extraordinary women. These artists, from vocalists and DJs to producers and label owners, have not only shaped the sound of Afro House but have also helped ensure its place on the world stage. Among them, Anané Vega, Hanna Haïs or Bucie stand as beacons of innovation and resilience. Here, we humbly delve into the lives and contributions of some of the pivotal figures* in Afro House, offering a glimpse into their journeys, sounds, and impacts.
(*by alphabetic order)
Anané Vega’s narrative is one of passion, innovation, and influence. Born to a Cape Verdean mother and a Portuguese father, Anané’s introduction to house music came from the vibrant club scene of Providence, RI. Her subsequent journey has been marked by over 50 recordings, worldwide tours, and performances at prestigious venues, including the Super Bowl and various renowned jazz festivals. Vega’s record label, N.U.L.U Music, has been a launchpad for artists from across Africa, highlighting her role in nurturing talent and expanding the Afro House genre. Her NULU Movement Radio Show on KayaFM is a testament to her dedication to Afro House, deep house, and Afro Tech.
Awen’s voice is a distinctive presence in the Afro House scene. Her vocal contributions have elevated numerous tracks, making her a sought-after talent for producers looking to add a layer of soulful intensity to their music. As a deejay she is seen performing all over the world for some of the most prestigious venues and parties.
Bucie, born Busisiwe Nolubabalo Nqwiliso in South Africa, is revered for her captivating voice and emotive performances. Known as the “Princess of House Music,” her collaborations with heavyweights like Black Coffee have yielded some of Afro House’s biggest hits, cementing her status as a genre mainstay.
Cindy Kiota, known professionally as Cincity, is a Dutch/Congolese DJ and producer based in Rotterdam (The Netherlands). Her music is a powerful blend of traditional Afro House rhythms and contemporary electronic sounds, characterized by energetic sets that captivate audiences worldwide. Cincity’s work is a celebration of her heritage and a testament to her innovative spirit in the electronic music scene.
Coco Em has truly made a mark on the East African music scene, not just as a DJ but as an innovative artist. Her journey began with ‘Kilumi’, a dance EP that fuses her Kenyan heritage with modern beats, demonstrating her deep connection to her roots and her passion for exploring new sounds. Beyond her music, she’s a mentor and a leader, guiding the next generation of artists in East Africa. Coco’s style, a vibrant mix of genres with a strong connection to Afro House, showcases her versatility and her commitment to connecting with audiences far and wide.
DANYKAS DJ, hailing from Cape Verde, brings a unique blend of rhythms and sounds to Afro House. Her innovative approach and dedication to exploring the depths of African rhythms have made her a standout artist in the genre, known for her ability to create tracks that are both captivating and dance-inducing.
D.Luxe, with a decade of refining her craft, merges genres like House, Afro/Caribbean/Latin/Brazilian, and more, captivating audiences globally. From Sevilla, Spain, raised in Chicago, and having lived in Barbados for 12 years, she now energizes Miami with her culturally rich sound. Notably, in Barbados, she has been a champion of Afro House, promoting the genre through her events. Recognized for her sophisticated taste, D.Luxe’s unique musical journeys have rightfully crowned her as a distinguished tastemaker in the music scene.
While Desiree might be best known for her work outside Afro House, her influence within the genre, through collaborations and inspirations drawn from African rhythms and themes, showcases her versatility and the fluid boundaries of musical genres.
French DJ and producer Hanna Haïs is celebrated for her enchanting, vocal-driven Afro House tracks. With a career spanning over two decades, Haïs’s music is a rich tapestry of soulful melodies and deep, immersive rhythms that resonate with listeners around the globe. Her discography includes hits that have become anthems in the Afro House scene, showcasing her ability to weave stories through sound.
Jackie Queens, a Zimbabwean-born, South Africa-based artist, is not only a gifted vocalist but also a producer and songwriter who challenges the boundaries of Afro House. Her powerful vocals and collaborative spirit have led to groundbreaking tracks, positioning her as a key advocate for women’s visibility in the electronic music industry.
JAMIIE, a Nigerian/German DJ, Producer with her fusion of Afro House and techno has positioned her as a solid name within the global electronic music community. Her innovative soundscapes bridge cultural and musical divides, showcasing the evolving nature of Afro House and its intersections with other genres.
Jane Rys’e, a German/Congolese DJ, singer, producer, and songwriter, embodies the spirit of modern music with her dedication to spreading love and inspiration. Influenced deeply by her mother’s Lingala songs, her music is a unique blend of cultural richness and personal experiences, aimed at connecting deeply with her audience. Jane’s artistry turns melancholy into a source of connection, using her music as a means to share, heal, and inspire her listeners.
Jozi Nights, a collective promoting the sounds of Johannesburg, celebrates South African music culture through events and DJ sets that focus on Afro House among other local genres. They stand as ambassadors of the rich musical heritage of South Africa, bringing its vibrant energy to a global audience.
Ugandan DJ Kampire Bahana, simply known as Kampire, is one of the brightest new stars in the Afro House world. Her sets are a dynamic celebration of African music, electronic beats, and global bass, showcasing her adeptness at bridging cultures and genres. As a member of the Nyege Nyege collective, Kampire’s influence extends beyond the decks, contributing to the growth of the East African electronic music scene.
French Congolese DJ and producer Karaba, now based in Montreal, transitioned from a successful dance career in Los Angeles alongside stars like Drake to captivate global audiences with her unique blend of personal, pulsing productions. Her journey, starting in Grenoble, France, and flourishing at LA’s DJ Scratch Academy, showcases her electric and captivating sounds that span continents. Karaba’s performances across North America, Europe, and Africa share her infectious energy and globally inspired beats, crafting intimate and euphoric experiences for her worldwide fanbase.
Kristelle, a pioneer DJ in the Afro House scene, is known for her contribution as a collaborator to Zepherin Saints label ‘Tribe Records’ and for her sets that transcend mere musical experiences, connecting with audiences on a deeper, and spiritual level. Her ability to curate soundscapes that reflect both her personal journey and the collective spirit of Afro House is unparalleled. She continues to push the sound in Australia where she now resides.
Nokuphiwa “Lizwi” Mbatha, a luminary in the Afro House genre, melds her Zulu ancestry with vibrant dance rhythms and African acoustics. Her musical journey, inspired by icons like Busi Mhlongo, shines through her self-taught guitar talent and commanding vocals. Launching her recording career in 2012, Lizwi quickly gained recognition through collaborations with artists like Enoo Napa and Kususa, and her debut solo single “Ndiyoyika” in 2018 highlighted her acoustic finesse. Currently, she is working on an EP featuring collaborations with Afro Warriors, Saint Evo, and Team Distant, promising to infuse the Afro House scene with a deeper ancestral essence.
Mikki Afflick, an American DJ and producer, is an undeniable force in the house music scene. Her Afro House productions are deeply rooted in culture and passion, embodying the genre’s essence with soulful vibes and rich, emotive soundscapes. Afflick’s Soul Sun Soul Music label has been arround 15 years.
Niniola Apata, professionally known as Niniola, emerged from Project Fame West Africa in 2013 to become a leading voice in Afro House music from Nigeria. Her 2017 hit “Maradona,” produced by Sarz, propelled her onto international platforms, even catching the attention of DJ Snake. Her debut album, “This Is Me,” further showcased her talent and versatility, earning her nominations and accolades, including a Grammy certificate for her contribution to Beyoncé’s “The Lion King: The Gift.” With a unique blend of Afrobeat, R&B, and Dancehall, Niniola continues to captivate audiences globally.
Oluhle, born Sukolunhle Ncube in June 1983 in Zimbabwe and now based in the UK, initially explored rap before transitioning to singing upon advice. She made her mark with the single ‘Fugama Unamate’ in 2009, collaborating with DJ Qness. Her music career further blossomed with another single ‘Zvinosiririsa’ and a feature on Mzee Mahuwelele’s ‘Zvinosiririsa,’ marking her first music video appearance. Oluhle’s discography includes ‘If Only’, ‘Linda’, ‘Isikhalo Senhliziyo’, and ‘Yeyeye’, showcasing her as a versatile singer-songwriter.
Sabine Blaizin, is an Haitian/American DJ, Producer based in New York City. She is known for exploring the intersection of Afro-Diasporic rhythms and electronic music, making her a distinctive voice in the Afro House community. Her work, in cultural curation, is a celebration of her Haitian heritage and a bridge between traditional sounds and contemporary electronic music.
Siobhan “Sio” King weaves her Johannesburg roots into a rich tapestry of Afro House, influenced by legends like Sade and Brenda Fassie. Her narrative depth, exploring themes of pain through dark metaphors, signifies her evolution from collaborative artist to a solo spotlight, embracing roles as a DJ and producer. Her distinctive sound, celebrated in collaborations with Charles Webster, Atjazz, and within the nurturing platform of Stay True Sounds, positions her as a pivotal figure in Afro House.
Stofella is a new comer in the Afro House scene, quickly making her mark with vibrant selections and a deep appreciation for the genre’s roots. Her approach to DJing and production reflects a genuine passion for Afro House, promising a bright future in the genre.
South African Thandi Draai stands out with her mesmerizing vocals and adept production skills. Her work blends traditional African sounds with modern house beats, creating a unique sound that’s both evocative and engaging. Draai’s voice is not just an instrument but a narrative tool that tells stories of love, resilience, and connection. Adding to that array of skills her notable deejay sets, she is gracing dancefloors worldwide.
Toshi Tikolo, from Kwalanga Township in Cape Town, is celebrated for her vibrant contributions to the Afro House music scene. Her artistic journey, influenced by her grandmother, began with a love for music and a guitar at age six. Toshi’s collaborations with global music icons, including Black Coffee, have positioned her as a sought-after vocalist, known for her dynamic presence across hits like “BUYA.” Her multifaceted talent extends beyond singing to songwriting, acting, and guitar playing, culminating in the release of her debut album “Ubuhle Bendalo” in 2017. Toshi’s work has not only earned her critical acclaim but also solidified her role as a powerhouse in bringing African culture to the forefront of the global music landscape
T-Sia, celebrated for her dynamic DJ sets, brings a vibrant energy to the dance floor that spans various genres, including Afro House. Her performances are a testament to the genre’s expansive nature, inviting listeners to explore the rich landscapes of African electronic music.
Nairobi’s Queen of Tribal House, began her DJ career in 2016, fueled by a deep-seated passion for music nurtured during her university days. Drawing inspiration from figures like Annie Mac and her trailblazing grandmother, Kenya’s first female MP, VIDZA has made a significant mark on the Afro, Tribal, and Tech House scenes. She’s celebrated for merging African drums with house music, contributing to Nairobi’s burgeoning music scene and Kenya’s recognition as a potential live music hub. Her work has earned her spots in prestigious charts and collaborations with global artists, making her one of the most sought-after house music vocalists in Kenya.
Ntombezinhle Jiyane, better known as DJ Zinhle, is among South Africa’s most celebrated DJs. Her infectious tracks and dynamic performances have played a crucial role in popularizing Afro House. Zinhle’s entrepreneurial spirit, evidenced by her various business ventures, mirrors her approach to music—innovative, influential, and always engaging.
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