As part of Africa Month 2026, Apple Music’s ongoing Sounds Of Africa initiative spotlights Abidjan, Kinshasa and Dakar, celebrating the diverse musical identities shaping Francophone Africa.
Across these cities, music serves as both cultural expression and historical record, reflecting the rhythms, stories and communities that define each location.
The initiative features a series of curated playlists, each assembled by artists, tastemakers and industry voices who represent the sound of their city. These selections bring together classic recordings and contemporary releases, offering a comprehensive view of each city’s musical landscape.
In Abidjan, a powerhouse of African music, the city’s sound reflects its vibrant energy and forward-thinking creativity. “African music is movement, memory, and momentum,” says music executive Franck Kacou. “This playlist reflects what Africa sounds like today: rooted in culture, fearless in innovation, and always ahead of the beat.”
In Kinshasa, generations of artists have shaped one of the continent’s most influential musical legacies, rooted in rumba and ndombolo while continuing to inspire new directions. “Kinshasa is not just a city. It is a sound,” says artist TRESOR, describing a musical culture that carries memory and identity across generations .
In Dakar, music is central to daily life, woven into moments of celebration, reflection and community. “These songs represent the spirit of Dakar,” says Baaba Maal, highlighting a culture where tradition and modernity coexist seamlessly.
Each playlist is complemented by an exclusive DJ mix, offering a deeper and more immersive journey into the sounds of each city — connecting past and present, and highlighting the evolution of Francophone Africa’s musical identity.
With The Sounds of Africa, Apple Music continues to amplify the voices shaping African music today, offering listeners around the world a deeper connection to the continent’s sounds, stories and cultural impact.
