Music streaming platform Spotify has named Afrobeats sensation Asake as the curator of its African Heat playlist for a special New Year’s Eve edition marking the transition into 2026.
The announcement was made in a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday by Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, who said the takeover will blend Asake’s hit records with standout tracks representing the diversity and pulse of African music.
Prompt News reports Okumu explained that the playlist is built to reflect the bold spirit and growing global influence of contemporary African sounds, offering listeners an energetic way to usher in the new year.
“African Heat is about capturing the energy and confidence of African music as it exists today,” she said.
“Having Asake as the cover reflects the kind of artists shaping how African sounds move through the world, rooted at home but resonating everywhere.”
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She noted that African Heat, which now has more than one million followers, has grown beyond a regular playlist into a global showcase for African creativity, helping artistes reach international audiences while highlighting key cultural moments from the continent.
“With Asake, one of the most-streamed artists on Spotify in Sub-Saharan Africa fronting the playlist, the takeover celebrates the expanding global footprint of African music on the world stage,” Okumu added.
According to her, Asake’s selection is a reflection of his dominance in recent years, driven by successful albums, consistent chart performances and sold-out arena tours across different regions.
“By tapping into the afrobeats star, African Heat further reinforces its role in pushing the genre from a regional movement into a leading global cultural force,” she said.
