Fela Kuti was a Nigerian musician and activist who pioneered the Afrobeat genre, a blend of traditional African music with funk, soul, and jazz.

Youssou N'Dour is a Senegalese singer, songwriter, and percussionist who has gained international recognition for his unique voice and his fusion of traditional African and modern music styles.

Miriam Makeba was a South African singer and activist who used her music to address social and political issues, particularly apartheid in South Africa.

Manu Dibango was a Cameroonian saxophonist and composer who gained international recognition for his innovative use of traditional African rhythms and melodies in jazz music.

Angélique Kidjo is a Beninese singer and songwriter who has gained international recognition for her powerful vocals and her fusion of traditional African music with contemporary genres.

Franco Luambo Makiadi was a Congolese singer and guitarist who gained international recognition for his innovative guitar playing and his unique blend of traditional African and modern music styles.

Hugh Masekela was a South African trumpeter and flugelhornist who gained international recognition for his unique style of playing and his contributions to the development of jazz in South Africa.

Tabu Ley Rochereau was a Congolese singer and songwriter who gained international recognition for his unique voice and his fusion of traditional African and modern music styles.

Papa Wemba was a Congolese singer and dancer who gained international recognition for his energetic performances and his unique style of music, which blends traditional African rhythms with modern dance music.

Koffi Olomide is a Congolese singer and songwriter who gained international recognition for his unique voice and his fusion of traditional African and modern music styles.

Brenda Fassie was a South African singer and songwriter who gained international recognition for her powerful voice and her songs that address social and political issues.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka is a South African singer and songwriter who gained international recognition for her powerful voice and her songs that address social and political issues.

Miriam Makeba was a South African singer and activist who is often referred to as the "Queen of African Music" due to her significant contributions to the music industry and her influence on African music.

Salif Keita is a Malian singer and songwriter who gained international recognition for his unique voice and his fusion of traditional African and modern music styles.