The Afrobeat music scene is booming, but the artists you see on stage owe much of their success to the managers working behind the scenes. Over the years, female managers have risen to the forefront, transforming an industry long dominated by men. Armed with expertise, persistence, and a deep understanding of the business, these women are shaping careers and taking Afrobeat to global heights.
These are seven trailblazing female managers who are leaving their mark on Afrobeat:
1. Mariam Abass
A civil engineering graduate turned entertainment mogul, Mariam Abass is the founder of Malc agency, a brand management firm. With a client list that includes heavyweights like Davido and Mr Eazi, Mariam now manages Joeboy, one of Afrobeats rising stars. Despite the challenges women face in the industry, she believes in the power of working with exceptional talent.
2. Bose Ogulu (Mama Burna)
Bose Ogulu, famously known as Mama Burna, has been steering Burna Boy’s career since 2010. Under her management, he secured a record deal in 2012 and later became a global Afrobeat ambassador. She also manages her daughter Nissi, proving her ability to nurture talent within and beyond her family. In 2023, Bose was honored with the History Maker Award at the Best of Africa Awards, a testament to her enduring impact.
3. Jada Pollock (Jada P)
Jada Pollock is more than Wizkid’s manager, she’s a driving force behind his international success. With a background in managing global stars like Chris Brown, Jada brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her focus on creating an environment for artists to thrive has made her a cornerstone of Wizkid’s career.
4. Elizabeth Sobowale
Elizabeth Sobowale’s career in talent management began at the age of 21. After managing DJ Cuppy for seven years, she now oversees Adekunle Gold’s career. As the founder of Brand & Stitch and the program director of the Music Business Academy for Africa, Elizabeth is shaping the future of Afrobeat while building a legacy of her own.
5. Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna
With 25 years of industry experience, Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna is a veteran who knows how to make things happen. From managing Tiwa Savage to organizing Davido’s sold-out show at London’s O2 Arena, Vanessa’s expertise spans continents. She continues to break new ground, including producing Tiwa’s debut film, Water and Garri.
6. Isioma Nwaruocha
As Head of Promotions at Chocolate City Music, Isioma Nwaruocha has played a pivotal role in the success of viral hits like Ckay’s “Emiliana” and Young Jonn’s “Xtra Cool.” Her strategic approach to artist promotion ensures her clients consistently dominate the charts and stay relevant in a competitive industry.
7. Morin Oluwatobi
Morin Oluwatobi manages Blaqbonez, one of Nigeria’s most dynamic hip-hop artists. With a background in computer science, she combines technical knowledge with creativity to build her artist’s career. Morin is also passionate about empowering women in the industry, conducting masterclasses and speaking at events like HER Sound.
These women are reshaping the Afrobeat music industry with resilience, skill, and vision. While the spotlight often shines on the artists, these managers are the engines driving their success. They’ve broken barriers, navigated challenges, and proven that leadership in Afrobeat isn’t confined to one gender. The future of Afrobeat is in good hands, thanks to these remarkable women who continue to push the boundaries and redefine what’s possible.
