Kenyan music surges globally with 95m first-time Spotify listeners in 2024

In 2024 alone, Kenyan musicians were discovered by new listeners more than 95 million times on the platform, underlining a rising global appetite for the country’s diverse and vibrant music scene.

The streaming giant’s latest figures highlight a surge in popularity across a wide range of genres, from gengetone and Afro-pop to benga and contemporary fusion styles that weave traditional Kenyan sounds with international influences. The increased exposure is not only drawing in fresh audiences but is also helping to cement Kenya’s position as a major player in the global music landscape.

Spotify reports that global listeners collectively spent over 120 000 hours streaming Kenyan music in 2024, while more than 16 million playlists worldwide now include Kenyan artists. Hundreds of these musicians also earned spots on Spotify’s influential editorial playlists over the past year, a significant driver of visibility and listenership.

Locally, interest in Kenyan music has skyrocketed. Domestic consumption has grown by an extraordinary 277% over the past three years, while music exports have increased by 94% in the same period. Notably, streams of music by Kenyan female artists from audiences outside of Kenya grew by 98% in 2024, further illustrating the global resonance of Kenyan talent.

“These figures demonstrate that Kenyan music is no longer just a regional phenomenon but a significant player on the global stage,” Spotify head of music for Africa Phiona Okumu said. “The growth both domestically and internationally creates opportunities for Kenyan artists and the broader cultural economy. What we’re witnessing is the result of incredible talent combined with digital accessibility that allows these unique sounds to reach audiences worldwide.”

The data paints a picture of a flourishing ecosystem where international recognition and domestic cultural pride feed into one another. It’s a model that offers sustainable pathways for Kenyan artists to achieve global success while remaining grounded in their cultural heritage.

This surge is reflective of broader trends in the music industry, where global streaming platforms continue to democratise access to previously underrepresented voices. Kenya’s music community, composed of both veteran acts and emerging voices, is increasingly being recognised for its creativity, innovation, and deep-rooted cultural storytelling.

As the world tunes in, Kenyan artists are stepping confidently into the global spotlight, proof that the nation’s music has both the talent and the audience to thrive on a truly international scale.