Kenyan vocalist Idd Aziz is fast cementing his place as one of the country’s most influential musical exports, thanks to his Afro-spiritual anthem Time (Mimi). The track, a collaboration with Germany-based artist Dhali, has secured the top spot on Spotify’s newly released 2025 Global Impact List. The ranking highlights the 30 Kenyan songs with the most international streams in the first half of the year, marking a milestone moment for Aziz and Kenya’s growing global musical influence.
Aziz’s sound, a blend of Afrohouse, Swahili rhythms, and spiritual undertones has found fans far beyond Kenyan borders. His music isn’t just being streamed; it’s soundtracking nights in Berlin’s clubs, Bali’s beach lounges, and Lisbon’s late-night radio shows. Other collaborations like Mentuliza with Anthony Keyrouz and Penda with JimmX also feature on the list, further underscoring his rising global appeal.
A Collective Moment for Kenyan Music
Aziz is not alone in this success. The Spotify Global Impact List showcases a cross-section of Kenya’s evolving soundscape, blending genres from afropop and alt-R&B to gengetone and afro-fusion. Familiar names like Savara, Karun, Kato Change, Wakadinali, Nikita Kering, and Bensoul appear alongside fresh talents, reflecting a music scene in dynamic motion.
Notably, Njerae’s 'Beg For It' stands out as the only solo female track on the list. Its raw, emotionally charged performance has resonated internationally, further highlighted by Njerae’s recognition as Spotify’s EQUAL Artist for June 2025, a nod to the rising impact of Kenyan women in the global music scene.
Former Sauti Sol member Bien also makes multiple appearances through international collaborations like All I Need and Safari, demonstrating his continued influence as a solo artist. Meanwhile, Savara’s afro-fusion hit Sianda has found unexpected success among Europe’s diaspora communities.
Organic Growth, Global Reach
What’s striking about this surge is its organic nature. There’s no overarching export strategy driving this success. Instead, Kenyan artists are quietly expanding their reach through streaming, collaboration, and authentic connections with audiences worldwide.
Even Dhali’s return after a hiatus speaks to Nairobi’s quiet but growing cross-border creative pull. His comeback with Idd Aziz on Time (Mimi) symbolizes the capital’s emerging role as a meeting point for global sounds.
Here’s a look at the top 25 tracks with the most international streams this year:
Dhali, Idd Aziz — Time (Mimi)
Anthony Keyrouz, Idd Aziz, Sleiman Damien — Mentuliza
Bien, Rammor — All I Need
Isaiah Sharkey, Kato Change, Luedji Luna, Luiz Melodia — Joia
Hoax (BE), Idd Aziz, merchant — Tu Ta Le
Anthony Keyrouz, Idd Aziz, JimmX — Penda
Idd Aziz, Naarly, Thabza De Soul — Nihurumie
Jeff Kaale, soave lofi — 5ive More Minutes
Kato Change, Luedji Luna, Nubya Garcia — Dentro Ali
Afro Lofi Guy — We’ll Be Alright
Idd Aziz, Leo Guardo, Madmix — Manga (Radio Edit)
Njerae — Beg For It
Lonely Night, Salim Junior, keyløud — Wangui
Savara — Sianda
Bien, Darassa — Down For You (feat. Bien)
Katapilla, Skillo, Sudough Doss, Wakadinali — Tamashani
Afro Lofi Guy — Afrobeat
Beatriz Nascimento, Karina Siervi, Kato Change, Luedji Luna — Baby Te Amo
Bien, Rammor, keyløud — All I Need (keyløud Remix)
African Lofi, Afro Lofi Guy — Nakupenda
Bien, Suldaan Seeraar — Safari
Fidel Rayd, Mr.Tee — Turn Off
Afro Lofi Guy — Brazilian Heat
Idd Aziz, Marc Moon — Nairobi
Bahati, Willy Paul — Keki
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