Spotify named Nigerian singer and songwriter Solana its October EQUAL Africa Artist in Lagos ahead of her first South African performance.

The company announced the selection on 8 Oct 2026 before its EQUAL Artist Showcase in Johannesburg on 14 Oct 2026.

Spotify's head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu said the programme would bring Solana to a South African stage for the first time.

“Her sound is one that requires no passport,” Okumu said.

Spotify said EQUAL Africa supports women artists across the continent and connects their music with global audiences.

For Kenya's music industry, the programme offers a continental example of how streaming platforms promote women artists to wider audiences.

The selection brings together a streaming feature and a live performance ahead of Solana's next releases.

Spotify said the October feature centres on Okunkun, a Yoruba-language song about resilience during difficult periods.

Solana said the title means “darkness” and reflects her message about moving through hardship rather than remaining trapped in it.

“Everyone goes through darkness from time to time,” Solana said.

She said she initially struggled with the title before deciding it matched the message she wanted the song to convey.

In an accompanying interview, Solana said music had served as a means of expression and an escape since childhood.

“Music has always been a form of expression for me since I can remember,” Solana said.

She said women face difficulties getting people in the music industry to take them seriously but she focuses on her work.

“Light will always shine because that’s what it is created to do,” Solana said.

She said participation in the EQUAL programme made her feel seen despite the obstacles she encounters.

Spotify described her developing sound as spanning alternative R&B, electronic music and pop with influences from her Nigerian roots and Yoruba culture.

Solana said she grew up listening to King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey through music her mother played.

She later discovered Lagbaja and other artists through music videos on television.

Spotify said her visual identity includes a signature hairstyle and contemporary interpretations of traditional clothing.

The company said she connects with fans known as Lanterns through exclusive first-listens, intimate meet-ups and newsletters.

Solana said performing across the continent was a longstanding ambition because she sees music as a way to connect people.

Her Johannesburg appearance will precede the release of her new single O Ri Mi on 16 Oct 2026.

Spotify said her debut EP Girl from the West, Act I will follow on 6 Nov 2026.