Global music streaming platform Spotify has named South African DJ, musician and music promoter DBN Gogo in its prestigious RADAR Africa programme.
The programme is “dedicated to the spotlight and discovery of emerging artists across the world,” Spotify said in a statement on Monday (9 May).
DBN Gogo in Spotify’s RADAR Africa programme
DBN Gogo was named alongside five other African artists, including Ayra Starr (Nigeria), Black Sherif (Ghana), Victony (Nigeria), BNXN (Nigeria) and Buruklyn Boyz (Kenya).
Other African talents such as Elaine, Willy Cardiac, Tems and Focalistic joined the programme in 2020 and gained exposure to new global fan communities on the streaming platform.
“It gives me so much joy to bring back our RADAR Africa program, and to do so within a deservingly bigger and better format. It is so important that we continue to identify and find ways to offer developing artists a fair chance at success on and off platform,” Spotify Africa’s Head of Music Phiona Okumu said.
“We have six outstanding ones from the region to begin with, and look forward to sharing in their journey while we provide the resources to elevate them to the next level of their respective careers, and hopefully make thousands more Spotify fans around the world.”
How the artists will benefit
“Since its launch, RADAR has driven an increase in listening and furthered fan-artist connections and, as part of the programme, these artists will receive editorial, on-platform and off-platform support from Spotify to help broaden their respective fanbases,” the platform said.
“Moreover, as part of its Global Hub launch, Spotify will prioritise the promotion of RADAR playlists, RADAR podcasts, Spotify Singles, and priority releases from RADAR artists across all regions.”
DBN Gogo already boasts more than 335,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and regularly performs at high-level events across South Africa, the region and wider continent. Some of her hits include Bells and Life Changing.
Her real name is Thembani Radebe and she speaks French fluently after spending part of her life in France. Based in Durban, she is the daughter of prominent ANC politician and former Minister Jeff Radebe.
“Unthinkable, disruptive, and unexpected are words to describe DBN Gogo, who brings magical brilliance to each set she plays and hopes to leave behind a beautiful legacy for future generations,” Spotify said.
The talented DJ has not yet reacted to her inclusion in the programme. Her comment will be added as soon as it is available.