Throughout its history Afrobeats has been piloted by those who run the decks, updating palettes and moving to the stage to bring the genre from boy band ballads to global acclaim.

PAM investigates the challenges African artists face when applying for a UK visa, finding a recurring general assessment: “it’s a nightmare”.

The South African jazz scene continues to be an exciting confluence of sounds from all over. From electronic music and classical, to Afro-folk and hip hop, this is our selection of the best Mzansi jazz of 2023 so far. 

Every month, PAM browses the pan-African scenes to offer a selection of ten fresh releases. To prolong the summer, dive into Nigeria’s musical heritage with Tony Allen and Ayo Manuel, take a detour to Beirut with Charife Megarbane and go crazy with DJ K.

Keyboardist Jantra, unknown in Khartoum, doesn’t even know his album is out. Without a telephone, he continues his search for inspiration in Sudan, combining traditional music and celestial melodies. The latest craziness from the Ostinato label.

After missing her dream show in Cape Verde, Coco Em reflects on her experience and denounces the difficulties faced by African artists on the international scene.

Tec, half of the legendary Show Dem Camp duo, explains how his group broke through the noise by tapping into the innate frequencies of African music and how he’s been building his empire to support the sound ever since. 

This week, PAM welcomes Stranger Souma, for a sonic road trip from Morocco to South Africa, passing by Egypt, between organic ambient and hypnotic techno.