Gyakie honoured by Forbes for her rise in African music

Ghanaian Afro-pop and Afro-fusion singer Gyakie has earned a major career milestone by being named in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025. The list, announced on Thursday, June 5, celebrates young people under 30 who are making a strong impact across different industries, including music, fashion, technology, and finance.

Gyakie rose to fame with her hit single Forever in 2020. The track quickly became popular across Africa, especially in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, and has gained over 35 million streams on Spotify. Her debut EP, Seed, also released in 2020, brought in millions more streams and helped grow her fanbase around the world. With millions of followers on social media, Gyakie has built a strong connection with listeners both at home and abroad.

Reacting to the Forbes honour, Gyakie said the recognition reflects her dedication to her music. “This acknowledgement by Forbes Africa is a testament to the hard work and dedication I’ve poured into my craft. I hope it inspires other young Africans to pursue their passions relentlessly,” she said.

Gyakie’s music stands out for blending styles like Afro-fusion, R&B, hip-hop, and traditional Ghanaian highlife. She recently shared insights into her creative process as a speaker at the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit, showing that her role in the music industry goes beyond performing. Her participation at such an event highlights her growing influence as a voice in Africa’s creative space.

Looking ahead, Gyakie is set to release her first full album, After Midnight, in August 2025. The album promises to reflect her growth as an artist and offer a more personal side of her music.

Being selected from thousands of nominations across Africa, Gyakie’s spot on the 30 Under 30 list is a sign of the growing recognition for African talent globally. As the continent’s music scene continues to attract attention from major labels and investors, Gyakie stands as one of the leading voices driving this movement and representing the energy of Africa’s youth.