Spotify Celebrates Teni as EQUAL Africa Ambassador for August
Teni, the acclaimed Nigerian songwriter, singer, performer, actress, and social media star, has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the Nigerian music scene since her debut.
With a string of achievements under her belt, she has now been appointed as the EQUAL Africa ambassador, further establishing herself as one of Africa’s most sought-after musical talents.
In 2017, Teni made her mark with the release of her first single, ‘Fargin,’ and since then, she has continuously impressed fans and critics alike with her versatile musical talent. With an impressive discography that includes three musical projects and hit tracks like ‘Wait,’ ‘Askamaya,’ ‘Uyomeyo,’ and ‘Billionaire For You,’ Teni has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the African music sphere.
Her recent release, ‘No Days Off,’ from her upcoming album slated for release in the fall of 2023, has been warmly received by listeners, signalling the beginning of her artistic rebrand.
Affectionately known to her fans as Makanaki or Sugar Mummy, Teni effortlessly navigates across various genres, including Afrobeats, pop, RnB, and more.
Her music is influenced by musical legends such as King Wasiu Ayinde, King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Osita Osadebe, and Dolly Parton, reflecting her diverse and eclectic musical tastes.
As an EQUAL Africa artist, Teni will prominently feature on the Spotify platform, offering her fans and music enthusiasts worldwide the chance to explore her rich musical repertoire and gain a deeper appreciation for her exceptional talent and contributions to the music industry.
Her infectious energy, unique vocal prowess, and captivating melodies have garnered her numerous nominations and accolades, both in her home country and beyond. With her latest role as the EQUAL Africa ambassador, Teni’s star continues to shine brightly, solidifying her position as a true African musical sensation.
Below is Teni’s Q&A session as part of the celebration of her announcement as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa ambassador for August.
- What is the one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?
I love staying indoors. Give me NBA 2K, some food in bed and I’m going nowhere. I have been exploring the outdoors a little bit more though.
- When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing this craft?
Making music is an extension of who I am and what my earthly purpose and mission is. It is a way to know I exhausted all my God-given talents to inspire, entertain and enlighten people to be more and do more by being their true unique selves regardless of what society thinks.
- Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?
I have always loved music from a young age as I grew up in a large family with diverse tastes in music from traditional Nigerian gospel music, fuji, hip hop, RnB, and more. However, there are some African artists that I would say had a huge impact on me which are King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, Funmi Aragbaye, Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Osita Osadebe, Shina Peters amongst many other iconic artists.
- To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?
I will say Afro-Pop but with a fusion of gospel, Fuji, Hip Hop, and RnB delivered with a mixture of ruggedness or sometimes soft emotional energy especially when it comes to love songs. I can be hard on the outside but I’m a sucker for love. Well, who isn’t?
- Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?
Never give up on your dreams. It might get lonely, dark, frustrating but find the little light around by doing everything that is needed to get you there.
