Son of afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti has a sound that is both similar to his father’s, but also uniquely his own. He has received criticism and praise, from government officials and fans, respectively, for his songs that criticize his homeland in Nigeria, such as the tunes “Sorry Sorry,” “What Will Tomorrow Bring,” and “97.” He has also made HIV/AIDS awareness a personal priority, and has donated thousands of dollars brought in from album sales to nonprofit groups that work to fight the disease.
With a gospel background, Kanjii Mbugua blends hip hop, rock, and rap sounds to create his unique style, and speaks to social issues that were considered taboo to discuss in the past. He focuses particularly on the shortcomings of the Kenyan government, and demonstrates that Kenyans are no longer fearful of speaking out against their politicians.
With a reputation for wild music videos and intense light shows, Just a Band changed its tone when it released the video for “Matatizo” in 2013. In it, the band highlighted the Kenya’s Nyayo House detention facilities, often called the “torture chambers,” and blasted former President Daniel arap Moi. The band has pledged to keep a dialog open about things that were formerly swept under the rug, and has a reputation for making music to inspire young Africans.
Rapper M.anifest has a large following both in Ghana and across the globe, particularly in the U.S. (as he also has roots in Minneapolis–Saint Paul — the Twin Cities), and released an album entitled “Birds and Bees” that deals with a variety of social issues. He has particular fondness for the non-profit group Young Entrepreneurs Africa, and has brought much international attention and support to the group.
Prophets of da City, formed in 1988, quickly earned a reputation for tackling tough issues of the time – particularly the evils of apartheid. Their music ensured nobody would forget the police injustices that occurred in Soweto or Sharpeville, and they have continued to make music that addresses modern social issues to this day.
The Senegalese group Positive Black Soul has been going since the 1980s, and their music appeals to a broad international audience. With a focus on endorsing the self worth of black Africans and the black consciousness movement, the group ensures that all its music makes a difference.
After his hit, “Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo,” attracted a massive fan base, Eric Wainana continued to make music that matters. The Swahili song, which translates to “Land of Petty Bribery,” angered government officials to the point where it was banned from the airwaves for years, but that didn’t stop Wainana from discussing political shortcomings in subsequent songs.
Miriam Makeba, or “Mama Africa,” earned international fame for her powerful voice, both in song and message. Her commitment to speaking out against the apartheid government actually lost her South African citizenship, but she continued to champion causes, including the fight against HIV/AIDS. Even after her death in 2008, Makeba’s music remains popular and relevant to this day.
The upbeat group Darra J was formed in the early 2000s, but shot to fame with the release of their album, “Boomerang,” in 2003. Rapping primarily in French, the group maintains a socially conscious message throughout the album, and is known for artistic words and rich sounds.
The NIA Collective, made up of individuals from several countries, includes its social mission in its name – “nia” is Swahili for “purpose.” The group makes sure that its audience thinks deeply about its music. Discussing topics ranging from women’s and children’s rights to societal norms regarding masculinity, the group blends African and European sounds and unique instruments, creating a one-of-a-kind sound that makes listeners get up and dance.
