For an artist who has built an entire world out of sound, symbolism, and self-invention, Flier, whose name is an acronym for For Lovers In Endless Revolution, offers a disarmingly simple description of himself: “I’m an explorer.” Not rebellious. Not contrarian. Just endlessly curious

In Nairobi’s buzzing creative scene, few platforms have captured the urgency of documenting and shaping the African creative scene quite like Blueprint. At its helm is Wana, a designer whose journey from hospitality to fashion, product, and interior design has been marked by a deep curiosity about how we occupy and transform space.

The Leading Vibe Initiative is about leveling the playing field and building real pathways so that aspiring female artists, producers, and songwriters across the continent have the access, tools, and support to thrive, not just in Africa, but globally. — Tems

It started as a clothing brand. An idea that was struck up between three friends working at KFC, in Kigali, Rwanda, during the pandemic, all with a shared love for skateboarding. Their apparel combines the energy of skate culture, streetwear, and bold designs, inspired by the people around them and the people they look up to. But today, Fragile is much more than just a clothing brand; it is a community. 

Kampala’s artists were in isolation, tucked away working from home or personal studios. 32º East brought them together.

Labdi’s Pakruok is a reflection of who she is; bold, proud, and grounded in her heritage. The title comes from the Luo tradition of self-praise, and that spirit flows through every track. With striking vocals, ancient ancestral rhythms, and lyrics that feel like echoes from another time but that ring true to today’s reality, the EP bears an incredible spiritual weight.

Here’s a look at four standout tracks from the first half of 2025 that are making a significant impact.

With soulful melodies, vivid storytelling, and stripped-down instrumentation, Kenyan R&B is capturing the hearts of listeners across the nation

In an era where sustainability is more than just a buzzword, Akala 21 is redefining fashion by turning discarded tires into stylish, durable footwear.

Zowie Kengocha…is a storyteller of love’s complexities, a creator of hauntingly beautiful soundscapes, and a voice unafraid to embrace the messiness of life.creator of hauntingly beautiful soundscapes, and a voice unafraid to embrace the messiness of life.

Likizo, the latest 7-track project from DJ Mura K.E and Big Nyagz lives up to its name in every sense. Translating to holiday in Swahili, it is a sonic gateway built on the pulse of afrohouse and amapiano.  Between breezy grooves, hypnotic rhythms, and soulful moments of reflection, the project is as suited for the dancefloor as it is for quiet stillness.

There’s something magnetic about Musings, the five-track EP from Clark Keeng, Zawadi, and Chris Barr. The five-track collection feels like an intriguing cinematic odyssey and the soundtrack to an old-school film noir lost to time. Desire, that most human of threads, is the linchpin here, pulling at each track and linking them to form a clearly cohesive body of work.

Njoki Karu’s debut album Mwihoko: Utheri wa Ngoro, Kikuyu for Hope: Light for the Heart, feels like a sacred offering. It is deeply spiritual, deeply human, and deeply healing.

Odes by Queens is more than just an album; it is a defining moment in Kenyan music history. As the first all-female album in the country, it showcases the talent and diversity of Kenyan women in music.

From the celebratory Tuliwano to the sultry Whine Slow V2, Soundlykbb has put together a project that’s made for movement, for feeling good, and for embracing the moment. Whether you’re celebrating a win or simply vibing with the crowd, this EP is the soundtrack for living in the now.

From the sultry exploration of desire in Tangerine, to the haunting reflections of MP4 Player, Turunesh showcases her remarkable ability to articulate the dynamism and complexities of modern relationships

The Goethe Institute’s latest installment of The Jam was nothing short of spectacular, providing a vibrant evening that once again celebrated Kenya’s diverse musical talent.

After consciously taking a few steps away from music, Bakhita has signalled their intention of getting back into the scene in a big way this year.

Chuki, which translates to ‘Hate’ in Swahili, is a 6 track EP composed of African contemporary and Afro House music alongside a slew of artists from around the continent. Despite its title, this EP is a body of work with an abundance of love at its core and bliss at its crest.

At Odds’ recently released new collection is characterized by calmer, relaxed tones that induce serenity and features shorts, shirts, jackets, crop tops and slides.

Justin Shema is a fashion model based in Kigali, Rwanda. From his voguish style and charming charisma, he is a sight to gaze upon when walking down the runway.

Kennedy is a Kenyan artist and model. Represented by 199x Kennedy is full of creative expression. His creativity is showcased throughout the work of 199x.

Conversation with 199x creative director, Michael Mwangi Maina, highlighting their recent drop, 'Walimbwende Wa Kasri.

Kween Nkatha is a Kenyan fashion model and dynamic individual. A self described ‘country girl in the hood’, she is ever spreading that country girl sunshine! A brand ambassador, creative innovator and love advocate, a queen (Kween).

Adong is a Ugandan model, signed to Ugandan modeling agency, Joram Model Management (JMM).

Mario Bol is a fashion model, an artist and founder of a clothing brand. This multifaceted individual is yet another example of the beauty that erupts, when one is purely and freely themselves. Oh what a beauty to be you!

Metamorphisized by Daudi O’ aims to Emulate the cumulative aspect of one’s personal wardrobe, by pairing precise tailoring with an unwavering devotion to simplicity.

Dawn is a young, bright, bold and beautiful model from Uganda. With her modeling career just taking flight, she hopes to showcase her beauty and passions through her modeling journey.

Bonkerz is a fashion street wear brand created, owned and designed by Mvoo Wanje. The last month has come with fantastic drops one of them being ‘Just Smile’, a concept that birthed TABASAMU.