Listen to Kobby Graham’s alté playlist

The respected DJ and academic explored altè as a response to its more popular cousin, Afrobeats, delving into the history and sonic elements that distinguish the genre while taking stock of its social relevance over the years. 

“What was once a label covering a specific subgenre of music from Lagos has since become a catch-all term used to describe genre-pushing music from all over the continent,” Graham, who now serves on the ACCES curation committee responsible for selecting the artists who will showcase at the conference’s 2023 edition, observes.

“This is not even remotely an exhaustive list – and there is an obvious Ghanaian bias here – but this is a sample of the diverse, dope, tricky-to-define music being made by artists from all corners of Africa. Some new, some classic, such sounds are at times kept off radio and labelled ‘underground’ despite the recognisability of some names, when what the music actually does is push the envelope in different little ways, encouraging us all to open our ears and our minds.”

Below, Graham shares a playlist of songs that serve as a window into the enigmatic world of altè.

LIKE IT by Amaarae

Published in 2019, this laid-back R&B song by Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae unfolds as a seductive exploration of sexual liberation and self-confidence themes.

Waves/The Water by Sutra

On the hauntingly beautiful ‘Waves/The Water’, London-based Ghanaian singer Sutra delves into a dreamy, soulful take on the ebb and flow of relationships.

In the Clouds by Adomaa

Adomaa’s ‘In the Clouds’ is a whimsical invitation for listeners to escape into their imaginations.

Body on Fire by Moliy

A confident anthem, this record explores themes of self-love and empowerment, Moliy’s commanding vocals and fierce lyrics thriving over trap-inspired melodies.

Ina Jin by Ayat

This dynamic offering by the Ghanaian rapper attempts to inspire listeners to dance and enjoy the moment while celebrating the joys of life.

Culture by Boj ft. ENNY

A submission by Nigerian act Boj, the groovy ENNY-assisted track is a contemporary take on R&B that celebrates heritage and finds the pair trading unique voice and sharp lyricism about the richness and diversity of culture.

Take My Losses by M3NSA

The record is a powerful reflection on the themes of perseverance and resilience, encouraging listeners to keep pushing through tough times.

Bourdeaux by SuperJazzClub ft. Muthoni, EDWVN, Narah, Tronomie

SuperJazzClub’s ‘Bourdeaux’ is an intricate jazz piece showcasing the band’s musical prowess and honouring collaboration and creative expression.

Rapid Fire by Santi ft. Shane Eagle, Tomi Agape & Amaarae

The energetic track sees Santi teaming up with Shane Eagle, Tomi Agape and Amaarae to deliver a memorable homage to creativity and collaboration, and an outstanding musical moment.

Too Bad by Show Dem Camp ft. Amaarae & Tems

The song unpacks the pain of heartbreak, reflecting on the disappointments that come with love, and coping afterwards.

Rum & Butter by Turunesh

On this record, Turunesh offers an upbeat tune that celebrates the good things in life, with lyrics that centre around indulging in pleasure without guilt.

Teach Me How to Love by The Cavemen

This song by Nigerian highlife duo The Cavemen almost feels spiritual in how it summons ancestral melodies. Thematically, it is a near prayer on how to navigate the world with love.

Inaweza Haiwezi by Blinky Bill ft. M.anifest & Khaligraph Jones

Orchestrated around a party vibe and hip hop bravado, ‘Inaweza Haiwezi’ preaches resilience and perseverance, its artists encouraging listeners to keep pushing through adversity and to never give up on their dreams.

Aura by Sichangi ft. Karun & Jean Deaux

‘Aura’ is a dreamy song that explores the theme of love, with lyrics that prioritise well-being and encourage an urgent celebration of inner beauty.

Thunderstorm in Surulere by Lady Donli

‘On Thunderstorm’, Lady Donli sings about the struggles of dealing with mental health issues, as she shares her personal journey with anxiety and the ways in which she copes with it.

Eyes But No Eyes by M3NSA

The soulful offering touches on the importance of seeing the world through a critical lens, grappling with the themes of social justice, inequality and the need for change.

Leave Me Alone by Amaarae

This track by Amaarae is an anthem for self-care and independence, with lyrics that celebrate the freedom that comes with being able to take care of oneself and live life on one’s own terms.

Butter by AYLØ ft. Sutra & Merry-Lynn

The sensual ‘Butter’ celebrates the pleasures of intimacy, honing in on themes of love, desire and physical attraction.

Caveman (Jeje) by Worlasi ft. Kwabena Kwabena

Worlasi and Kwabena Kwabena explore the themes of self-discovery and identity, reflecting on their journey to finding their place in the world and accepting themselves for who they are.

Never Go Change by Wanlov the Kubolor

The song finds singer-activist Wanlov the Kubolor criticising a lack of accountability by the government, and touching on the importance of staying true to the values that build a progressive society.

Lavapipes to Labadi by Gafacci ft. Kyekyeku

This song fuses traditional African sounds with modern electronic beats, the result of which is a buoyant celebration of the vibrancy and diversity of African dance music.

Listen to the track on Bandcamp.