Kenyan rapper, singer and producer tg.blk has been named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Artist for July, a recognition that places the Mombasa-born musician among a growing list of women reshaping the sound of African music.
The monthly programme highlights women artists across the continent, giving them greater visibility through Spotify’s editorial playlists and global audience. For tg.blk, whose career has largely been built independently, the recognition marks another milestone in a journey defined by experimentation and self-belief.
Born Nyathigi Gatere, tg.blk has become one of Kenya’s most distinctive voices in alternative hip-hop. Her music blends rap, R&B, soul and lo-fi production, often exploring identity, vulnerability and personal growth. Rather than following mainstream trends, she has built a loyal audience by crafting an intimate and unmistakably original sound.
Her musical journey began in her bedroom, where she taught herself to rap and produce songs using GarageBand. She later refined her songwriting and production while studying in the United States before returning to Kenya to pursue music full-time.
Her breakthrough arrived in 2021 with Love Being Used, a single that attracted millions of streams and introduced her to listeners across East Africa. Since then, she has continued to expand her catalog with projects including her 2024 EP, ITS NOT THAT DEEP, and tracks such as gin and wine, reinforcing her reputation as an independent artist unafraid to push creative boundaries.
Announcing the recognition, Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, praised the artist’s originality and influence.
“tg.blk represents the fresh, daring and authentic spirit that is propelling the East African alternative music scene forward,” Okumu said. “Through the EQUAL programme, we are proud to celebrate her unique artistic perspective, her technical independence as a producer and her inspiring commitment to vulnerability.”
Despite the growing acclaim, tg.blk says she is still discovering where her career will ultimately lead.
“I’m still figuring out the destiny part, but I know it makes me incredibly happy whenever I make a song I’m proud of, and that’s why I keep doing it,” she said. “I’m following my heart, and this is where it has led me.”
She describes her music as relaxed, layered and emotionally rich.
“I’d describe my music as a blend of rap, R&B and soul. It’s really chill and textured, and I love experimenting with my voice. It’s the kind of music you listen to on a drive when the weather is beautiful and there’s no need to rush.”
Her influences span generations, from Zimbabwean music legend Oliver Mtukudzi and Kenya’s Joseph Kamaru to South African icon Brenda Fassie and the classic mixes of Kenya’s Ogopa DJs.
As more women carve out space in Kenya’s alternative music scene, tg.blk believes confidence and trusted collaborators have been central to her growth.
“I work with people I trust and respect, and I always trust my gut. As a woman, I’m blessed with amazing intuition. Because I believe in myself and what I know, that confidence comes through in my music.”
She also encouraged aspiring creatives to pursue their ambitions despite uncertainty.
“Give it a chance. You’ll be much happier knowing you tried. You never know what could happen.”
For the artist, joining Spotify’s EQUAL Africa programme is both recognition and reassurance after years of building her career online.
“Now is the time for women musicians. The power is in your hands, and people want to hear from you. The internet has opened up so many opportunities for us,” she said.
“Being part of the EQUAL programme means so much to me because I built so much of my journey online, and I often feel disconnected from opportunities like this. It’s incredibly affirming, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
As Kenya’s alternative music scene continues to gain international attention, tg.blk’s latest recognition signals the growing global appetite for artists who are willing to challenge convention while staying true to their own voice.
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