By TAIYE OLAYEMI

Nigerian afrofusion artiste, Aninooritsewarami Oritsesan, popularly known as “Kold AF”, has emerged Spotify’s EQUAL Africa artiste for April.

Monica Kemoli-Savanne, Spotify’s Senior Artiste and Label Partnerships Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

She said Spotify’s EQUAL programme supports female artistes in music, giving them a global platform through playlists, content hubs, and partnerships.

According to her, Spotify’s year-round EQUAL programme empowers female creators with a global platform for growth.

She said that the dedicated EQUAL hub connects listeners in over 180 markets with pool of talented artistes.

“Rising Nigerian artiste, Kold AF, known for exploring diverse sounds, takes the spotlight for Spotify’s EQUAL Africa programme this April, following her selection as Spotify’s Fresh Finds artiste in 2023.

“At Spotify, empowering women and creating opportunities for them is a true passion. We are committed to continuing these efforts and showcasing rising artistes like Kold AF, who serve as a reminder that dreams are valid.

“EQUAL Africa is honoured to be a part of sharing these stories,” she said.

According to Kemoli-Savanne, in 2023 alone, Spotify hosted 15 EQUAL activations and over 14.8 million artiste discoveries stemmed from EQUAL playlists.

She said within the period under review, EQUAL artistes received 11,800 editorial playlist adds which demonstrated the programme’s impact and reach.

Commenting, Kold AF emphasised the importance of staying true to her artistic vision.

“People often try to fit me into their preconceived moulds, guided by their prejudices. Yet, as a young woman navigating the labyrinth of the music industry, I refuse to be confined by such limitations.

“My focus remains unwaveringly fixed on staying true to my artistic vision.

“Participating in the EQUAL programme is a genuine honour, a testament to Spotify’s commitment to supporting female artistes.

“It also serves as a gentle reminder to me to extend a helping hand to the aspiring women who will follow in my footsteps,” she said. (NAN)