An Artistic Journey Through Spotify’s African Playlists

Inside the colourfully lit Red Door Gallery in Victoria Island on a recent Thursday evening, a group of influencers, media personalities, creators and visual artists were treated to an experiential event that showcased the intersection of music, art and food. The event was the latest in Spotify’s experiential series dubbed #SpotifyMoments. The music streaming platform has recently been expanding its events beyond music, entangling with other elements of culture to provide a holistic experience for music lovers.

Earlier in the year, it held a similar event in South Africa where it paired music with fine dining with the help of top Chef Wandile Mabaso.

For its Nigerian version, seven young Nigerian artists were tasked to create artworks from five different Spotify African playlists: Alter-NATIVE, Naija Bars, Naija Traffic Jams, Hot Hits Naija and African Heat.

The artists Chinaza Nkemka, James Adebayo, Chijioke Anyacho, Kenter Kachina, Odinakachi Okoroafor, Abigail ‘Esoterica’ Oghene and Sotonye Jumbo, whose works cut across classic, contemporary and postmodern art, delivered pieces that take one on an artistic journey through the playlists.

For instance, Oghene, in depicting how alternative music has become acceptable compared to the past, painted a picture of a bull in a jar (also the title of the piece). In another painting, the way Nigerians listen to music when caught in traffic jams was portrayed by a painting of eyes in a rearview mirror and a steering wheel.

Another artwork titled ‘Monday Morning on 3MB’,  was inspired by the Naija Traffic Jams playlist and it told a story about the upbeat and chaotic nature of Lagos traffic. Each piece tells different stories inspired by different songs on the Spotify playlist.

“Across Africa, Spotify has been on the journey of intersecting music with other culture elements that elevate the music listening experience,” said Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships Manager for West Africa, Victor Okpala.

“Nigeria’s contemporary art scene is gaining global recognition just like its music, and we are committed to creating a platform for collaborations between music, art and other cultural elements that will bring Nigerian music to life.”

Beyond the paintings, the chef of the night, Chef Benedict tantalized guests’ taste buds with a ten-course menu that blended traditional Nigerian ingredients with contemporary flair. Each dish was thoughtfully paired with a corresponding song from a Spotify playlist, creating a harmonious intersection of music and food.

To further enhance the ambience, violinist Tenaviolinist and DJ TohBahd entertained guests with their music. The event also marked the soft launch of Spotify’s VIP program, adding to the overall festive mood.