Spotify increased royalty payouts to Nigerian artists

Spotify significantly increased its royalty payouts to Nigerian artists, reflecting a growing global interest in African music. The streaming giant distributed over 58 billion Nigerian naira (approximately $38 million) to Nigerian performers, more than doubling the previous year’s earnings. This surge underscores the rising prominence of Nigerian music on the international stage.

The substantial growth in royalties is attributed to the global popularity of Nigerian music genres, particularly Afrobeats. Internationally acclaimed artists like Burna Boy have played a pivotal role in bringing Nigerian sounds to a broader audience. Spotify’s data indicates that Nigerian artists were discovered by first-time listeners over one billion times in 2024, highlighting the widespread appeal of their music.

The financial impact on Nigerian artists has been profound. The number of performers earning over 10 million naira annually has more than doubled since 2023 and tripled compared to 2022. This trend signifies a growing middle class of artists achieving financial sustainability through streaming revenues. Additionally, over 1,900 Nigerian artists were added to Spotify’s editorial playlists in 2024, a 33% increase from the previous year, further amplifying their reach.

The surge in royalties is not limited to domestic listeners. A significant portion of the earnings came from international audiences, with Nigerian music exports experiencing a 49% increase over the past three years. This global demand is further evidenced by the creation of approximately 250 million user-generated playlists featuring Nigerian artists, indicating the widespread integration of their music into global listening habits.

Spotify’s commitment to supporting Nigerian artists is evident in its efforts to empower creators to earn from their art while maintaining transparency with stakeholders. The platform’s investment in African talent continues to foster the growth and international recognition of Nigerian music, solidifying its position in the global music industry.