Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Joyce Olong has been unveiled as Spotify’s EQUAL Artist for May, marking a milestone moment in her rising career and spotlighting her unique contributions to Africa’s alternative music scene.
Known for her genre-defying style, Joyce is much more than a musician—she is a self-taught sound engineer, a visual storyteller, and a fearless creative voice pushing boundaries. Spotify’s EQUAL programme, which celebrates women who are transforming the music landscape, recognised Joyce for her bold sound, artistic independence, and unwavering authenticity.
“In an industry that often plays it safe, Joyce chooses the untamed path,” Spotify said. “Her sound blends alt, African rhythms and dub textures into something that cannot be easily labelled.”
Born and raised in Nigeria, Joyce Olong has developed a sonic identity that resists categorisation. Every lyric, every beat is created with intention. “It’s elite music,” she says. “Different on this side.”
Joyce’s artistry goes beyond performance—she writes, produces, and engineers her own work, making her a rarity in an industry where creative ownership remains elusive for many artists.
Reflecting on her journey, Joyce revealed that her love for writing and production began as early as age 10, but she only found the courage to record herself in 2017. “I’ve always felt like a vessel—like my job is to translate the sounds in my head or stories around me into something others can feel,” she shared.
Drawing inspiration from a blend of iconic African artists like Asa, Styl-Plus, Lagbaja, and Nel Oliver, Joyce also credits her creative awakening to pioneers of Nigeria’s alternative music movement such as Lady Donli, Odunsi, and Tay Iwar. “Their sound made me realise that there is space for people like me in music, and that I didn’t have to compromise to find my voice,” she said.
For newcomers to her catalogue, Joyce describes her sound as “rooted in alternative music, with influences from African rhythms and dub textures,” anchored by her distinctive voice. “It’s dynamic, refreshing, and uniquely mine,” she added.
Beyond music, Joyce has found a creative outlet in crocheting—a hobby she picked up to unwind during studio breaks. “I even make pieces I wear; and some for my friends too,” she said.
Navigating the music industry as a woman, Joyce says, has shaped her resilience and sharpened her understanding of the business. “Every woman in music should take time to learn the business side too,” she advised. “Now that I feel more grounded, I’m excited to use my experience as a producer, songwriter, and engineer to help shift the culture—especially for women like me.”
Asked what advice she would offer to dreamers afraid to take the leap, Joyce said: “Stay faithful to your craft and don’t compromise your essence just to fit in. Your authenticity is your superpower.”
As the EQUAL Artist of the Month, Joyce Olong joins a distinguished list of African women celebrated by Spotify for their impact on global music culture, proving that her fearless creativity and commitment to her own voice are resonating far beyond her immediate circle.
