Afrobeats Intelligence

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...

“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 t...

“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...

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 t...

“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 navigat...

“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....

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...

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 p...

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, a...

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...

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 hi...

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 commu...

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 jo...

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"—so...

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...

Step into the studio with Louddaaa, the producer behind some of Afrobeats’ biggest tracks, on this episode of Afrobeats Intelligence. Louddaaa joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to talk about his journey from Lagos to Mavin Records and his role in shaping hits for artists like Ayra Starr and Simi. Louddaaa shares his thoughts on the oraimo SpaceBuds, highlighting their crisp bass that complemen...

Bien-Aimé 'Bien' Baraza the celebrated Sauti Sol frontman turned solo artist, graces Afrobeats Intelligence with his latest project, Alusa Why Are You Topless?. In this episode, Bien joins Joey Akan, sponsored by oraimo, to delve into his debut album that fuses Kenyan heritage with global sounds. From exploring the depths of Fuji and Apala to reflecting on his time with Sauti Sol and his hopes for...

From the streets of London to the palm-lined avenues of California, Harmony ‘H-Money’ Samuels has lived a life in sound. He’s a man who has seen it all: a Grammy-nominated producer who has shaped the sonic landscapes of legends, from Janet Jackson’s timeless grooves to Wizkid’s Afro-fusion anthems. On this episode of "Afrobeats Intelligence," Joey Akan digs deep into the mind of a producer who has...

NSG is a British afroswing collective from Hackney East London. The group consists of Six members: OGD, Kruddz, Mojo, Dope, Papii Abz, and Mxjib. Their latest album, "Area Boyz," is out now. 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm...

Timi Dakolo is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer. He emerged winner of the inaugural season of Idols West Africa in 2007. Accompanying his victory was a recording contract with Sony BMG, in addition to other prizes. A great vocalist his latest album is titled, "The Chorus Leader." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bo...

Abdul Quam Tadese is a multi-faceted musician, culture entrepreneur and philanthropist. 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oxlade, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter signed to Troniq Music, Epic Records in France, and Columbia Records in the UK.  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joeboy is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who was discovered by Mr Eazi and signed in 2017. After four projects and a world of hit records, he finally has his career in his hands. Here he tells Joey Akan about his entire deal and his plans for the future. Subscribe to Afrobeats Intelligence Newsletter: https://t.co/brjUmSwWWa Listen to Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast: https://afrobeatsintelligence...

Steve Stoute is an American businessman and record executive. The founder and CEO of the Translation, a marketing agency, and the author of The Tanning of America: How Hip-Hop Created a Culture That Rewrote the Rules of the New Economy. In 2017, Stoute received $70 million from investors such as Alphabet Inc. and Andreessen Horowitz to launch United Masters, a music venture for independent artist....

Blaqbonez, is a Nigerian rapper signed to Chocolate City. highly regarded for his distinct rap style as, well as his creative ingenuity, his latest album, "Emeka Must Shine," is out now. 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adc...