Nigerian-British artist DEELA earns Spotify EQUAL Africa spotlight

Nigerian-British artist DEELA has been named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa artist of the month, marking a significant milestone in her steady rise across both the African and global music scenes.

The recognition places DEELA among a growing list of women reshaping the continent’s soundscape through Spotify’s EQUAL Africa programme, which spotlights female artists driving cultural and creative influence.

Her selection underscores a trajectory built on a vibrant, unapologetic style that blends rap, hip-hop and Afro-infused rhythms into a sound that is as dynamic as it is distinctive.

In 2025, the artist capped off a defining year with the release of her album ‘Wicked,’ a genre-bending project that captures her rhythmic confidence and experimental edge.

Tracks such as ‘Slide’ and ‘Why Always Me?’ showcase her ability to craft music that resonates both on the dancefloor and beyond, reinforcing her reputation as a bold and versatile voice.

Born in Lagos and raised between Nigeria’s rich musical heritage and the UK’s underground scene, DEELA has developed a layered sound shaped by diverse influences.

Her earlier releases, including ‘FIT’, ‘Anyways’ and ‘Watchu Mean’, had already signalled her lyrical dexterity and fearless approach, laying the groundwork for her current momentum.

She describes her music as “exciting, cheeky, and lively,” a reflection of the energy and confidence that define both her sound and persona.

That spirit, she says, is rooted in the creative process itself. “It was when I realised that I have this unshakable joy while I’m creating music and get into a flow state very easily,” she says. “I love that people associate my music with confidence and fierceness because that’s exactly why I do it.”

Her influences span some of Africa’s most iconic acts, including Wande Coal, Lagbaja, 9ice, Asa, Wizkid and P-Square, whose sounds helped shape her musical identity.

Beyond her artistry, DEELA is vocal about the importance of self-belief and visibility, particularly for women navigating the music industry. “I always put myself out there. The best people you meet are outside, and it's important to always talk positively about yourself in these rooms,” she says.

“It feels daunting taking up space, but that’s the best way to navigate the music industry as a woman. You can hear this attitude in my lyrics; I’m a firm believer in manifesting, thinking positively, and saying a big ‘no’ to BS.”

Her selection as EQUAL Africa artist of the month reflects not only her musical growth but also her role in a broader movement of African women asserting their place on the global stage. “Being unapologetic and taking up space. It’s an honour to be selected amongst such an all-star alumni. Thank you!” she says.

Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, notes that DEELA embodies the creativity shaping the continent’s current music wave, highlighting how female artists are expanding visibility, creating opportunities and forging global connections through their work.