IDD AZIZ TOPS SPOTIFY LIST AS KENYAN MUSIC GOES GLOBAL

Kenyan Afro-fusion sensation Idd Aziz has topped Spotify’s 2025 Global Impact List, solidifying his position as a key player in the international music scene.
Aziz’s hit song "Time (Mimi)", a collaboration with German producer Dhali, ranked as the most streamed Kenyan track globally between January and June this year. The track’s success highlights Kenya’s growing influence in the global music industry, with streaming numbers soaring in Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
Aziz’s presence on the list was further strengthened by additional hits such as Mentuliza and Penda, created in collaboration with international acts Anthony Keyrouz, Sleiman Damien, and JimmX.
Spotify’s report also spotlighted other leading Kenyan artists, including Bien (formerly of Sauti Sol), who earned four spots on the chart with songs like All I Need and Safari Remix. Rising star Njerae also made waves with her track Beg For It, earning her the title of Spotify EQUAL Artist of the Month for June.
Other names featured include Savara, Karun, Kato Change, Wakadinali, and Afro Lofi Guy, reflecting the rich diversity of Kenya’s evolving soundscape.
Spotify data further revealed:
Kenyan music was discovered 95 million times globally for the first time in 2024.
Music exports increased by 94%, while local listening grew by 277% over the past three years.
Female artists saw a 98% increase in international streams.
With over 1 million monthly listeners, Idd Aziz now joins the elite league of globally streamed Kenyan artists, alongside Sofiya Nzau and Barbara Wangui.
As Kenyan music continues to gain traction worldwide, artists like Aziz are setting the pace for a new generation of globally recognized African talent.