As the definitive authority on who’s next, iMullar has consistently chronicled the journeys of emerging artists who build the essential foundations for ascendant careers. Our “Ones to Watch” segment returns to spotlight a new vanguard: artists who, through a phenomenal year of momentum, have positioned themselves for breakthrough and transformation. They are the new architects of sound, ready to seize the baton and propel our genres into uncharted territories.
These are the voices defining the now and the next. Through masterful lyricism, resonant storytelling, and captivating vocal power, each has proven their mettle. They have turned regional buzz into universal appeal, earning the fervent respect of audiences and critics alike. Their work invites us to believe in their vision, passion, and the future they are shaping.
Spanning the rich spectrum from Afrobeats, Hiplife, and Amapiano to Alternative, Neo-Soul, Hip-Hop, and AfroPop, this year’s selections are cultural movers. Poised, prepared, and fiercely hungry, they are accelerating on an unstoppable trajectory. As this year’s most promising talents, they refuse to allow anything to slow their momentum or deny what their dedication demands: a place at the pinnacle of the global stage.
Here, they carry forward a greater mission: to elevate their artistry and amplify the African sound to its highest resonance worldwide. iMullar’s 2026 list celebrates those poised for exponential growth, destined for greatness and superstardom. Having laid an undeniable groundwork, their next chapter begins now.
We are thrilled to present to you, iMullar’s Ones To Watch 2026.
Mavo (Nigeria)
Mavo is a rising star in the Afrobeats scene from Nigeria, known for his infectious Afrobeats rhythms and ability to collaborate with some of the genre’s biggest names. His sound is a vibrant blend of traditional African melodies and modern, dance-inducing beats, making him a dynamic force poised for global recognition. His rapid rise through the ranks, marked by viral moments and significant industry buzz, positions him as a likely breakout act for 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Shakabulizzy”, and “Escaladizzy”.
For Fans Of: Zaylevelten, Odumodublvck, and Shallipopi.
DC3 (United Kingdom)
DC3 is a dynamic Christian Hip-Hop artist who seamlessly blends spiritual messages with compelling, modern production and versatile flow. Hailing from the UK, the artist has built a strong following through impactful freestyles and a consistent release schedule. DC3’s music is characterized by raw honesty, a sense of purpose, and an ability to craft tracks that resonate with a wide audience looking for inspirational and high-energy music.
Focus Tracks: “Bake Off – A COLORS SHOW”, “I KNOW”, and “UPSTAIRS”.
For Fans Of: Limoblaze, and Lecrae.
Jubed (Ghana)
Ghanaian artist Jubed is an Afro-fusion visionary blending traditional Ghanaian rhythms with a modern R&B and Amapiano flair. His music is deeply rooted in his African heritage but possesses a global appeal, telling stories of culture, personal journeys, and emotion through his soulful voice and powerful songwriting. Following his successful EP “From the Soil”, the deluxe and placement in Apple Music’s Up Next program, Jubed is set for a major 2026 breakthrough.
Focus Tracks: “Ruwa”, “Gabaya”, and “Abena” (feat. KOJO BLAK).
For Fans Of: Burna Boy, Rema, and Kidi.
Nanette (South Africa)
Nanette is a compelling musical force emerging from the South African music scene, delivering a unique blend of soulful R&B and contemporary Afro-pop that captures complex emotions with vulnerability and power. Her music explores themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, making her a relatable and resonant voice for a young, global audience. Her evocative storytelling and smooth vocal delivery indicate she is poised to make a significant impact in the coming year.
Focus Tracks: “I’m Not A Psycho”
For Fans Of: Tems, and SZA.
Mau from nowhere (Kenya)
Mau from Nowhere is a Kenyan-British multidisciplinary artist whose self-produced alternative sound is reshaping the East African music landscape. Drawing from a multicultural life spent between Nairobi, the UK, and the Netherlands, his music is a borderless blend of melodic Rap, Lo-fi Indie, and electronic textures. Recognized for his vulnerable storytelling and world-building capabilities, his collaborative 2025 projects have certified him as a visionary leader of the “alt-Nairobi” movement.
Focus Tracks: “Let It Pass”, “Ghost”, and “Crooked”.
For Fans Of: Obongjayar, Little Simz, and Outkast.
Lordkez (South Africa)
Lordkez is an artist whose music is a rich tapestry of Soul, R&B, and alternative sounds, offering a deeply introspective and authentic listening experience. Her thoughtful lyrics and mesmerizing vocal control create an intimate soundscape, drawing listeners into her world. Carving a niche for herself in the African music scene and a distinct, mature sound, she is anticipated to reach new heights in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Aweh”, “You, Me & 90’s”, and “Belladona”
For Fans Of: Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and Bloody Civilian.
Zaylevelten (Nigeria)
Zaylevelten is an explosive Nigerian rapper whose sound is a raw, hyper-energetic fusion of Rage Rap, Afro-fusion, and electronic rhythms. Emerging from Ikorodu, Lagos, he has quickly become a standout voice in the Nigerian underground scene, earning significant co-signs from industry heavyweights like Davido, Blaqbonez, and Cruel Santino. With his 2025 sophomore album, “then 1t g0t crazy” and the deluxe, he has solidified his position at the forefront of the experimental rap movement, blending his unique lyricism with high-octane global influences to mark himself as a definitive act to watch in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Isa l0t”, “pawon”, “Guide Pass”, and “Wuse Tu”.
For Fans Of: Mavo, Odumodublvck, and Fimiguerrero.
Messiah4L (Ghana)
Messiah4L is a Ghanaian Afro-fusion artist known for his conceptual approach to music, blending Afro-soul, alternative R&B, and various global influences. His music features expressive vocals and atmospheric production, with his debut EP “You Ate Me” using the metaphor of a “vampire of love” to explore emotional intensity. Recently named an Apple Music Up Next artist, his unique storytelling and experimental soundscapes position him for international acclaim in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “AWAY”, “FADED”, “HARD TO LOVE”, and “DEAR KANA”.
For Fans Of: Tems, Burna Boy
We Are Nubia (Kenya)
We Are Nubia are a Kenyan contemporary R&B duo, Maggie Atieno and Gloria Munga, known for their harmonious vocals and relatable lyrics about love and relationships. Their sound seamlessly blends modern R&B elements with traditional African rhythms, creating a catchy, and heartfelt experience for listeners. Their releases and engaging stage presence have built a strong regional following, suggesting they are set for wider recognition in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Mapenzi Ya Sinema”, “Mvinyo”, “Usiku Na Mchana”, and “Fortnight”.
For Fans Of: Xscape or Destiny’s Child for their vocal blend, but with a distinct Kenyan sound.
Steve Ibrahim (France)
Steve Ibrahim is a rising artist in the French music scene, offering a sound rooted in contemporary styles with a distinct vocal quality. His music captures the essence of modern escapism and introspection. Often blending melancholic lyrics with vibrant, sun-drenched melodies, he creates a sound influenced by genres such as Indie, Folk, and Contemporary R&B. With his debut singles in 2025 gaining steady momentum, his penchant for cinematic storytelling and atmospheric production marks him as a standout talent to watch in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Le bleu du ciel”, “La marée”, and “Le mur du salon”.
For Fans Of: Tuerie, Masego, and Elisa Kwamé.
Haeven (Ghana)
Haeven is a dynamic Ghanaian-Nigerian artist who has built her own sanctuary within music, blending Hip-Hop for anger, R&B for heartbreak, and Soul for reflection. Her music is characterized by raw honesty, a unique vocal quality, and poignant lyrics that advocate for mental health and non-conformity within the African narrative. Having recently returned from a hiatus with a renewed drive, her ability to channel life experiences into powerful, genre-defying soundscapes positions her for a significant breakthrough in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “ERA”, “Liquor in a Teacup”, and “Bite The Bullet”.
For Fans Of: Orion Sun, Little Simz, and Ms Lauryn Hill.
Gonaboy (Ghana)
Gonaboy is an electric Ghanaian rapper and alternative artist whose music is steeped in realism and unfiltered storytelling, blending Highlife, alternative rhythms, Reggae, and street rap. With a street cult following earned from breakout singles and co-signs from major artists, he was selected as Apple Music’s November 2025 Featured Artist for Rap Life Africa. His authentic narrative of resilience and hustle, showcased in his recent “Muniru” EP, marks him as a powerful and promising voice in the African music scene for 2026.
Focus Tracks: “Abele”, “HUSTLERS MANTRA”, “REGGAE”, and “SAME TIMBS”.
For Fans Of: Black Sherif, Odumodublvck, and Asakaa Boyz.
Lizzie Berchie (UK)
Lizzie Berchie is a refreshing voice in the indie folk-pop landscape, using her crystal-clear vocals and clever songwriting to explore everyday life with wit and warmth. Her music is instantly charming, built on catchy melodies and relatable storytelling. The delightful “Love Deep” is a perfect introduction to her artistry.
Focus Tracks: “Love Deep”, “I Hope”, and “Growth”
For fans of: Filah Lah Lah, Lily Allen and Dodie.
Salle (Nigeria)
Salle is a Nigerian artist who captivated the masses as the young lady singing on the street to a fully established artist with a unique sonic style and ever-evolving artistry. Her transition from a viral sensation to a recording artist has been seamless, showcasing a mature, soulful voice that belies her youth and a versatile Afro-fusion style blending elements of Pop and R&B. Her authentic talent and the strong narrative of her rise position her for major industry impact in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “You & I” and “Icon”.
For Fans Of: Tems, Bloody Civilian, and Ayra Starr.
KooKusi (Ghana & United States)
KooKusi is a Ghanaian Rapper and Songwriter, with ability to blend contemporary Hip-Hop with traditional Ghanaian highlife rhythms. He delivers music that is both captivating and nuanced, creating a unique sound that resonates deeply with audiences looking for authentic storytelling. His focus on creating a sustainable and quality sound that highlights the social, mental, and psychological issues in the modern world, combined with a strong regional buzz, makes him an artist to watch for a potential breakout in 2026.
Focus Tracks: “5foot3”, “Greatest Fear”, and “This Ability”.
For Fans Of: M.anifest, Ko-Jo Cue and BRYAN THE MENSAH.
Queen Drie (Ghana & United States)
Queen Drie is an artist who views her music as a tool for change, striving to reflect the times in the tradition of Nina Simone, and seeking to make a positive impact on the art form and culture surrounding it. She is one to watch because of her deliberate and versatile artistry, which seamlessly blends rap with varying genres, fueled by her expansive cross-cultural background (Ghana and the U.S.). Her work centers on themes of authenticity, women’s empowerment, and mental health awareness.
Focus Track: “Ferrari” and “Woman”
For Fans of: Doechii, J. Cole, and Ms Lauryn Hill.
Maura Delgado (Cape Verde)
Maura Delgado is a Cape Verdean artist from Massachusetts who is a captivating force to watch due to her genuine blend of cultures. At a young age, she masterfully combines R&B, Afrobeat, Jazz, and traditional Cape Verdean sounds, captivating international audiences with her soulful voice and magnetic presence. Her music is a reflection of her unique cultural journey.
Focus Track: “11:11”, “Dexam Fica”, and “Away”.
For Fans of: Tems, Chelsea Dinorath, and Ria Boss.
Xowie (South Africa)
Xowié is a luminous talent in the South African R&B and Soul scene, celebrated for her empowering narratives and rich, genre-defying vocals. Her artistry is a sophisticated tapestry of Soul, Pop, and Reggae, deeply influenced by the spiritual values of her upbringing. Named an Apple Music Up Next artist in early 2025, she has transitioned from an Idols SA standout to a commanding solo force, using her platform to inspire Black women across the continent.
Focus Tracks: “Nobody’s Fool”, “Bittersweet”, and “Brown Sugar”.
For Fans Of: SZA, Victoria Monét, and Erykah Badu.
Braye (Nigeria)
Braye is a multi-dimensional singer-songwriter and producer whose music serves as an introspective and intimate sonic diary of his life across Port Harcourt, Accra, and Lagos. Defying strict categorization, his sound is an atmospheric fusion of Neo-Soul, Alternative R&B, and Jazz, marked by poetic songwriting and ethereal vocal delivery. Having overcome significant personal obstacles to pursue his craft, Braye’s rise is fueled by a raw emotional authenticity that has already caught the attention of music lovers worldwide.
Focus Tracks: “Bossa Nova”, “Painless Melody”, and “I Wish I Had More Time”.
For Fans Of: Frank Ocean, Asa, and Bon Iver.
Sabrina (Cameroon)
Sabrina is a high-energy Afropop powerhouse from Yaoundé, known for her bilingual versatility and pan-African appeal. Her music seamlessly integrates contemporary Afrobeats with traditional Cameroonian melodies, resulting in infectious, dance-inducing anthems. With her 2025 album FREELY, she has solidified her reputation for “dreamy production” and high-concept live performances that feature meticulous choreography, positioning her as a primary contender for global stardom.
Focus Tracks: “Ojoro”, “Faraway”, and “Agility”.
For Fans Of: Ayra Starr, Simi, and Tiwa Savage.
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