In this unfiltered episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, award-winning host Joey Akan sits down with Peruzzi, the DMW star and songwriting mastermind behind some of Afrobeats’ biggest records. From penning classics like 2Baba’s “Amaka” and Davido’s “Assurance” and “Risky,” to shaping his own standout tracks like “Majesty,” “Gunshot,” and “Southy Love” with Fireboy DML, Peruzzi pulls back the curtain on the creative highs, industry pressure, and internal battles that shaped his sound — and nearly broke him. Peruzzi opens up about the moment he realized he was no longer making music from the heart. Though his Huncho Vibes and Rum & Boogie eras produced fan-favorite tracks and expanded his global fanbase, he admits he got lost in the amapiano wave and the financial rush that followed. Chasing chart-toppers and chasing trends began to cloud the original voice that made him special. The fans were dancing. The streams were climbing. But deep down, the music no longer felt like him. In an era of algorithm-driven creativity, Peruzzi shares what it means to disconnect, go silent, and rediscover your core.

In this candid episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with Director Pink—the award-winning creative force behind some of Afrobeats' most visually stunning and culturally defining music videos. Known for her storytelling precision, Pink has shaped the visual language of global Nigerian music through her work with artists like Asake, Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML, Joeboy, Ruger, and BNXN. From early hustle in Lagos to directing viral hits like “Sability”, “Bandana”, and “Lonely At The Top,” Director Pink opens up about her journey as a woman in a male-dominated industry, dealing with ego in the creative space, and setting the standard for international Afrobeats visuals. She unpacks how music video budgets are changing, why treatment writing is an artform, and how directors are finally getting global recognition for storytelling. She shares thoughts on cross-cultural collaboration (UK, France, and South Africa), and how she balances the commercial and emotional demands of the creative process. Whether you’re in New York, London, Toronto, Paris, or Accra, this episode offers an insider’s look at the vision behind Afrobeats’ most memorable visuals—and what it takes to lead as both artist and strategist.

In this insightful episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Lanre Marsha, Director of West Africa for The Orchard, a global music distribution powerhouse. Lanre pulls back the curtain on the Nigerian music industry, offering a masterclass on navigating its challenges and opportunities with integrity and strategy.

What does it take to bounce back and build from scratch? In this new episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits with Nigerian dancehall star Ruger—the artist behind hits like Asiwaju, Girlfriend, and Toma Toma—to break down his evolution from viral sensation to label boss. Fresh off launching his label Blown Boy Entertainment and releasing his new album Blown Boy Ru, Ruger opens up about heartbreak, hate, and healing. He talks about sneaking out to study Dancehall, learning to write in Patois, and how songs like "Warning" and "Make Way" reflect his truth. He shares what it was like leaving his former label, facing doubters who said he’d fall off, and how Wizkid’s tweet gave him the push to keep going, he says after dropping "Toma Toma" with Tiwa Savage. Now running his own show, Ruger reflects on artist development, mental discipline, and why his next signee “has to be better than me.” He also breaks down his joint project with BNXN (Buju)—Romeo Must Die—and how collaboration showed a new side of him. Whether you're a fan of Afrobeats, Dancehall, or the business behind the music, this conversation cuts deep—streaming from Lagos to London, Toronto to Houston, wherever the African sound resonates.

“Olamide taught me work ethic.” In this captivating episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Nigerian sensation Young Jonn, the hitmaker who transitioned from a prolific producer to a chart-topping artist. Known for bangers like “Dada” and his game-changing work with YBNL, Young Jonn shares the raw journey behind his music and his rise to global stages. Young Jonn opens up about his vibrant personality and early stage performances (0:00–7:00), recounting his first-ever show (5:05–6:07). He details his emotional switch from producer to artist, sparked by the loss of his mother (6:47–11:56), and how manager Isioma pushed him to drop “Dada” (10:30–11:58). He reflects on settling into his new artistic identity (12:00–16:45) and his musical roots, from church to abandoning football dreams (16:45–21:30, 20:10–21:30). Young Jonn dives into his producer come-up, meeting Olamide, and crafting “Story for the Gods” (21:31–31:46, 23:45–26:43), sharing hustle lessons from Olamide (27:25–29:00). He breaks down his fast-paced production style that reshaped Nigerian music (31:50–37:02, 31:50–33:36), his growth with Chocolate City (37:33–46:00), and the global reach of Afrobeats through his performances in Europe and the US (46:00–end). Join Joey Akan and Young Jonn for an inspiring deep dive into creativity, resilience, and the pulse of Afrobeats.

In this unforgettable episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with the one and only Tiwa Savage — singer, songwriter, and enduring icon of the African music movement. With a career that’s spanned continents and broken barriers, Tiwa gets candid about her journey, from joining Mavin Records to navigating fame, motherhood, and her return to R&B. She opens up about being pregnant while recording the RED album, the hunger for money as a rising star, and what it really took to build a career that has lasted over a decade. Joey and Tiwa explore the challenges of championing sensuality in a conservative industry, Tiwa’s Afro-RnB sound, working with Beyoncé on Keys to the Kingdom, and what it means to raise a son while also raising a legacy. 0:00–1:45 – Separation between home and work 1:45–3:43 – Tiwa’s hopes for her son 3:43–8:34 – Laying the foundation for longevity in music 8:34–11:15 – “I started late” – on timing and career doubts 11:15–13:56 – Navigating structure in a chaotic industry 13:56–15:44 – Scaling and surviving as a woman in music 15:44–19:15 – Championing sensuality in conservative Nigeria 19:15–20:59 – “Come home, Tiwa” – Leaving L.A. for the Nigerian market 20:59–24:39 – Becoming ‘Tiwa Savage’ full time 24:39–26:48 – Defining Afro-RnB 26:48–27:45 – Telling stories through projects 27:45–32:30 – From Mavin Records to the major leagues 32:30–34:48 – A popstar becomes a mother 34:48–36:41 – Ten years later: reflecting on a legendary run 36:41–40:02 – Staying true while staying versatile 40:02–42:53 – Working with Beyoncé and approaching perfection 42:53–46:29 – Building a sustainable music industry in Nigeria 46:29–end – Tiwa on Afrobeats to the World and her legacy

“We’re here fighting over the tiniest, most fickle things. When in reality the numbers are not matching up.” In this powerful episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Nigerian Afrobeats star Lojay, the voice behind global hits like “Monalisa” and “Billions.” Lojay delivers a raw and introspective look at his quest for legacy, his creative process, and the state of the Nigerian music industry. Lojay opens by sharing his drive to create work that outlives him (0:00–9:40), revealing a past fear of death that shaped his ambition (3:10–4:34). He traces his musical roots from high school fame (8:00–17:00) and early experiments at age 10 (17:00–20:30) to dropping out of a UK university to pursue music in Nigeria (20:30–27:15, 21:40–23:47). Lojay breaks down his growth markers, including writing classes (27:15–29:36), and his unique songwriting process, admitting “I don’t write” (30:59–32:39). He recounts crafting “Billions” with Wizkid and Sarz (32:39–35:55, 32:39–33:50) and turning Sarz’s beat for Wurld into the crossover hit “Monalisa” (53:20–56:03, 53:20–54:54). Lojay explores how love fuels his creativity (39:10–42:00) and why he prioritizes internal taste over trends, praising Asake’s bold sound (42:45–53:00, 49:02–51:15). He closes with a passionate critique of the Nigerian music industry’s lack of foresight, urging Afrobeats to aim higher (1:00:30–end, 1:01:58–1:05:50). Join Joey Akan and Lojay for an inspiring journey through artistry, ambition, and the global rise of Afrobeats.

“When I blew and started making money, I went broke.” In this gripping episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Nigerian Afrobeats star Bella Shmurda for a raw and revealing conversation. From the streets of Agege to global fame with hits like “Cash App,” Bella shares the highs, lows, and spiritual truths behind his meteoric rise. Dive into Bella’s world as he opens up about his spirituality (5:02–6:43) and how it guides his music, including the spiritual powers that shape his hit singles (16:24–21:13). Hear him reflect on empathy and charity (6:56–16:22), recounting personal stories of giving back, and a costly $40,000 lesson when he ignored his dreams (16:24–18:55). Bella doesn’t hold back on the music industry’s materialism (24:59–44:00), calling out predatory labels (36:42–38:27), OGs chasing trends (27:08–28:50), and the need for purpose over aesthetics (30:10–32:02). He also shares his vision for Dangbana Republik, explaining why he signed rising star Fola (44:45–46:15). This episode is a deep dive into authenticity, resilience, and the spiritual pulse of Afrobeats. Join Joey Akan and Bella Shmurda for a conversation that’s as enlightening as it is electrifying.

In this revealing episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with the elusive strategist behind Tems, one of Afrobeats’ most powerful voices. From spiritual practices to music industry frameworks, Donawon shares how he helped turn a misunderstood talent into a global force. Before the Grammy buzz, the Drake feature, and the Coachella stage, there was just a $500 bet and a belief. “If this fails, I’ll give you everything I have,” he told Tems.And then he built a team. A system. A legacy. Across this unfiltered conversation, Donawon breaks down: Why he walked away from gospel rap — and how that failure gave him purpose Why he built Faceless Management — and stayed in the shadows on purpose The system that scaled Tems’ career beyond algorithms or virality Why he fasts every month and lets faith guide business What’s next for the movement — including artists like Nsikak, Naya Akanji, and a new wave of Nigerian talent How rising stars like Rema, Fireboy DML, and Ayra Starr represent both inspiration and warning signs in today’s industry “Clout is for visibility. But conviction is what makes artists timeless.”“The artist is the fruit. But the tree? That’s where the real work happens.” Whether you’re a fan of Tems’ soulful R&B, an aspiring manager, or someone studying the Afrobeats industry from the inside, this episode is a blueprint for building greatness without shortcuts. Watch this if you’re building a team, launching a label, or dreaming of a music career. It’s long-term thinking for a short-term world. Timecodes: 4:55 - 5:50 {Managing Afrobeats artistes}  7:50 - 8:52 {External influences}  10:30 - 11:25 {Afrobeats as a collective?}  13:18 - 14:32 {Information/educational gap}  17:58 - 18:38 {Ownership and cataloguing}  22:40 - 23:49 {Conversion of the Afrobeats to the world movement}  27:30 - 28:41 {Choosing the artiste}  29:33 - 30:30 {Choosing the artiste 2}  33:46 - 34:54 {Management model vs Company model Nonso Amadi experience}  35:00 - 36:12 {Management model vs Company model 2}  36:25 - 37:30 {Manager - Artiste relationship}  41:41 - 42:43 {Music as a business vs Music as a brand}  58:40 - 59:48 {Managing Omah lay/Clarity of mind}

“In an industry like this, everything is based on value. And if you don’t have it, there are certain rooms you can’t go into.” In this soulful episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Ghanaian music sensation Gyakie, the voice behind hits like “Forever” and “Something.” Gyakie opens up about her journey, blending heartfelt storytelling with sharp insights on navigating the African music industry. Gyakie kicks off by sharing her deep love for Nigeria—its people, food, and talent pool (0:00–8:20), reflecting on its impact since childhood (3:53–5:03). She discusses balancing her father’s legendary musical legacy with her own path, addressing “nepo baby” labels (9:29–15:44, 12:00–13:59). Gyakie reveals how she navigates the industry with a service-driven mindset, stressing that passion alone isn’t enough (15:44–25:06, 17:34–18:57). She explores how love shapes her life and music (25:06–31:20), rejecting restrictive labels on the emotion (25:10–25:48). Gyakie breaks down the industry’s value-driven system, urging artists to avoid bitterness to thrive (31:22–39:53, 31:22–32:32). She closes by examining Afrobeats’ global rise in Ghana and the role of major labels (39:54–42:22). Join Joey Akan and Gyakie for a captivating blend of personal reflection, industry wisdom, and Afrobeats’ global pulse.

“The Money…” In this electrifying episode of Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast, host Joey Akan sits down with Nigerian music icon Timaya, the “Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa.” From dancehall-infused Afrobeats anthems like “Dem Mama” to global hits, Timaya’s journey is a masterclass in grit and innovation. This candid conversation traces his rise from Port Harcourt’s streets to Lagos’ spotlight and beyond. Timaya kicks off with his deep ties to Bayelsa and his annual Timaya Day concert (0:00–7:00), then breaks down the evolution of Nigerian music eras, from recording challenges to resource access (7:48–11:20). He shares his origin story, revealing why music was his only hustle in Port Harcourt (11:29–21:13), and details his bold crossover to Lagos (17:53–34:40), including his first N500k deal (22:47–28:20) and self-promotion as a backup singer (18:07–19:53). Hear how he coined “Timaya Don Blow” after his second album deal (31:25–34:13). Timaya reflects on his controversial eras, from bold moves to the Empress Njama car saga (38:50–42:45), his Caribbean exploits (43:30–51:50), and Afrobeats’ global takeover (52:00–56:38). He wraps with a raw take on money as his drive, revealing the $100k cost of producing a song (57:24–58:25). Join Joey Akan and Timaya for a no-holds-barred dive into resilience, reinvention, and the pulse of Afrobeats.

Joeboy gets brutally honest in this revealing long-form conversation with Joey Akan. For the first time, he breaks down his peaceful transition from emPawa Records, launching Young Legend, learning from Mr. Eazi, and building a loyal fan community that goes far beyond hit songs. Joeboy is one of Afrobeats’ most beloved voices, known for blending heartfelt melodies with infectious production. They talk ego, business strategy, creative freedom, internet culture, and Joeboy’s quiet confidence in his upcoming album — executive produced by Tempoe. From the outside, Joeboy’s rise seems effortless. But behind the scenes, there’s strategy, silence, and serious self-work. Since breaking through with the global hit “Baby”, he’s delivered fan favorites like “Sip (Alcohol)”, “Celebration”, “Contour”, and “Adenuga”—showcasing a sound that moves effortlessly between emotional pop and feel-good bangers. A protégé of Mr. Eazi and a standout from the emPawa Africa roster, Joeboy has carved his own lane with authenticity, composure, and community at the core of his brand. He reflects on the wisdom gained from working alongside Mr. Eazi, building real connections with fans (even in his DMs), and how he keeps his creative fire alive while managing a growing business empire. With his new era under Young Legend, he's doubling down on intentional storytelling, genre experimentation, and connection with fans. This interview is packed with insight for both Afrobeats fans and aspiring creatives—touching on artist independence, label ownership, mental health, music marketing, and the underrated art of composure in a chaotic industry. 0:41 — Cold Open: “I just spoke my truth.” 1:00 — Leaving emPawa Records: Peaceful or Political? 3:09 — Why Planning Beats Hype 4:51 — From artist to CEO: learning the business side 6:12 — Building Community Over Clout 9:00 — How Joeboy Engages His Fans Directly 13:50 — Dealing with Negativity and Online Noise 19:00 — Fan Parties, Real Connection & Superfans 22:26 — Why He Launched Young Legend 26:00 — Behind the Scenes with Mr. Eazi and emPawa 40:02 — How Routine Protects Creativity 42:00 — Being the “biggest winner, biggest loser” as your own boss 43:41 — “Adenuga” and Trusting His Gut 46:05 — Using consistency and community to experiment 49:04 — Advice for Independent Artists and Newcomers 52:00 — Why “Sip” almost didn’t drop—and how he changed his mind 54:00 — Making the New Album with Tempoe & Oxygen 57:04 — Rolling Out “SMH” and What’s Next 59:17 — What drove Joeboy at the start of his journey 1:02:00 — What drives him now: proof that anything’s possible

In this episode, we sit down with Tee-Y Mix, legendary music producer turned Executive Vice President at Dapper Entertainment, for an in-depth conversation about his journey and his mission to reshape Nigeria's music scene. Known for producing timeless hits, Tee-Y Mix now stands at the forefront of breaking new talent from Nigeria's streets, helping artists like Shallipopi and Seyi Vibez rise to prominence. Tee-Y Mix shares the philosophy driving Dapper Entertainment—a company dedicated to uncovering and nurturing street artists who reflect the raw, unfiltered energy of Nigeria’s vibrant music culture. From identifying unique sounds to creating artist development strategies, he explains how Dapper Entertainment has become a hub for the country’s most exciting new acts. We dive into the meteoric rise of Shallipopi, an artist whose catchy lyrics and street charisma have made him a household name. Tee-Y Mix unpacks the formula for his breakout success and how the label tailored its approach to elevate his music. Seyi Vibez also takes center stage as Tee-Y Mix discusses the importance of authenticity and storytelling in connecting with fans. Beyond breaking records, Tee-Y Mix reveals the intricacies of signing and developing artists from Nigeria’s streets, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that come with turning raw talent into global stars. Whether you’re a fan of Nigerian music, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the mechanics of the music industry, this episode is a masterclass in artistry, strategy, and passion. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Afrobeats and the visionary leadership shaping its future. __Season 3, Episode 17. Afrobeats Intelligence.Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter:https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast:https://afrobeatsintelligence.podlink... SOCIALSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsin...X: https://x.com/AfrobeatsIntelJoey's X: https://x.com/JoeyAkanJoey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyakan/?h... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In this powerhouse episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with Lucas Emeodi, better known as Kiing Lu—a cultural entrepreneur with a "militant mindset" forged through years of navigating Nigeria’s evolving music landscape. From his humble beginnings in Jos as a rapper and producer to becoming a pivotal A&R and founder of Speedplug Promotions, Kiing Lu shares the grit, resilience, and vision that have defined his career. They dive deep into his discovery of TG Omori, his transformative work with Universal Music, and the creation of his own label, Captive Music. Kiing Lu unpacks the philosophy behind the "Militant Camp," a thriving community-driven movement blending hip-hop, Drille, and Afrobeats, designed to push creatives to pursue their dreams relentlessly. With hard-earned lessons on industry relationships, brand building, and self-empowerment, this conversation is a masterclass for anyone striving to leave a mark on the music industry—and the culture at large.__Season 3, Episode 16. Afrobeats Intelligence.Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast: https://afrobeatsintelligence.podlink... SOCIALSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsin...X: https://x.com/AfrobeatsIntelJoey's X: https://x.com/JoeyAkanJoey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyakan/?h... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In this special episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan sits down with the enigmatic Wizard Chan, the Afro-Teme and reggae sensation whose soulful sound has captured hearts worldwide. From Okrika in Rivers State to becoming a Headies and Galaxy Music Award winner, Wizard Chan's journey is nothing short of magical. They dive deep into his latest project, Time Traveler EP, an introspective body of work that fuses his roots with futuristic sounds. Wizard Chan reflects on his rise to fame with the chart-topping Earth Song, how growing up as the youngest of five shaped his artistry, and why he sees music as a spiritual experience. The conversation goes beyond the music, exploring Wizard Chan’s time in the choir, his marketing studies in Ghana, and his early struggles making covers before finding his voice. Now a beacon for the Afro-Teme genre, Wizard Chan opens up about his creative process, his love for storytelling, and the emotional core of his music. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Wizard Chan tick, this episode will take you on a journey through his mind, his music, and his mission to touch lives with every note. Tune in to hear the soul of a Time Traveler.___Season 3, Episode 15. Afrobeats Intelligence. Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast: https://afrobeatsintelligence.podlink.to/New-Episodes SOCIALSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsintel/?hl=enX: https://x.com/AfrobeatsIntelJoey's X: https://x.com/JoeyAkanJoey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyakan/?hl=en This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey sits down with Nigerian Afrobeats superstar CKay as he takes us through the journey behind his new album, EMOTIONS. Popularly known for breaking global barriers with his 2019 smash hit “Love Nwantiti,” CKay returns with a fresh perspective, diving deep into the highs and lows of fame, heartbreak, and personal growth. We talk about the influence of his Igbo heritage, his favorite collaboration with The Cavemen. on “Addicted” and how he’s harnessed highlife to tell stories that connect beyond borders. Reflecting on his viral success and his more private personality within the industry, CKay opens up about taking a step back, re-grounding himself in Nigeria, and creating an album that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant. Join us as CKay shares the struggles, the wins, and the vibes that make EMOTIONS an unfiltered look at the soul behind the stardom. Tune in for an intimate, no-holds-barred conversation about music, culture, and what it takes to find yourself amidst it all.___Season 3, Episode 14. Afrobeats Intelligence. Subscribe to Afrobe4ts Intelligence Newsletter: https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast: https://afrobeatsintelligence.podlink.to/New-Episodes SOCIALSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsintel/?hl=enX: https://x.com/AfrobeatsIntelJoey's X: https://x.com/JoeyAkanJoey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyakan/?hl=en This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In Episode 13 of Season 3 of Afrobeats Intelligence, Smada, the 22-year-old artist and creative force, shares his remarkable journey in a candid conversation. At just 19, Smada launched What the F**k Lagos, a party series that became a thriving community and safe space for vibes and creativity among young Nigerians. Despite assumptions that he came from wealth due to his presence in the Alté community, Smada reveals his roots in the streets, where he built his name from scratch. Smada discusses the challenges he has faced, including being dropped by Native Records after a scandal involving court allegations that he emphatically denies. He speaks openly about the toll this situation has taken on his mental health and his hope that the full truth will soon be revealed once the case is settled. Additionally, he sheds light on the intellectual property issues surrounding his track “Smada Eh” and how he's managed to navigate these obstacles. Despite the setbacks, Smada's party series has grown beyond Lagos, reaching cities like London and Abuja, with plans for further expansion. As he prepares for the release of his Nobody Badder EP, Smada outlines his ambitions not just for his party series but also for his career as an artist. His story, from the streets to becoming a cultural figure in Lagos and beyond, is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering determination. This episode offers an inside look at Smada’s inspiring journey, his battles, and his dreams for the future. Tune in for a compelling conversation about creativity, community, and the highs and lows of the music industry. _____Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter:https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast:https://afrobeatsintelligence.podlink.to/New-Episodes SOCIALSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatsintel/?hl=enX: https://x.com/AfrobeatsIntelJoey's X: https://x.com/JoeyAkanJoey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyakan/?hl=en This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Kold AF, one of the most exciting new voices in the AfroFusion scene, takes center stage. Known for her unique blend of AfroFusion with Reggae, Dancehall, Soul, R&B, and Afrobeats, Kold AF’s sound captivates with its depth and versatility. Her powerful voice and sharp lyricism cut through, leaving an unforgettable impression. Kold AF opens up about her journey, from juggling law school at Obafemi Awolowo University to making waves in the music industry. She reflects on her evolution as an artist, and how she has quickly become a force to reckon with—named a Spotify Equal Africa Ambassador and spotlighted as one of the artists to watch by Culture Custodian. With the release of her latest Kaution EP in September 2024, Kold AF continues to push boundaries, delivering a fresh sound that’s catching the attention of both fans and critics alike. We also explore her collaboration with Aema for International Women’s Day and how she uses her platform to advocate for social justice, especially on tracks like "No Pity." Kold AF's ability to blend genres while maintaining a distinct voice sets her apart as a trailblazer in the AfroFusion space. Tune in to hear how her rise in the industry mirrors her bold artistic vision and why she’s poised to shape the future of music. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

In this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Joey Akan chats with Llona, the rising artist whose music feels like a mushy hug on a sour day. Llona opens up about his evolution from 2Classic to Llona, a journey that began on the streets of Kano and took him to the mountains of Abuja for introspection and songwriting. He shares how isolation shaped his sound, creating what he calls "homeless music"—songs that give comfort and peace when nothing else does. With his latest album Homeless making waves, Llona reveals how his struggles, solitude, and spiritual journey have carved out a unique space for his voice in the Afrobeats scene. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com

On this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, Qing Madi steps into the spotlight with a fresh perspective that’s turning heads in the Afrobeats scene. At just 17, she made waves with her breakout hit “Ole,” and now she’s here to share her journey from a young artist to a rising star. Qing Madi joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to discuss her debut album, her dance influences from ballet, and her vision for impacting Afrobeats. She also opens up about navigating her faith and its effects on her growing fanbase. Tune in as we explore the vibrant soundscape of Qing Madi and the crisp clarity of the oraimo SpaceBuds. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit afrobeatsintelligence.substack.com