Kenyan rapper, singer and producer Nyathigi Gatere, popularly known as tg.blk, has been named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa artist for July, marking a major milestone in her growing music career.
The Mombasa-born star has emerged as one of Kenya’s most exciting alternative hip-hop artists, earning recognition for her emotionally honest lyrics, laid-back production and fearless creative independence.
tg.blk’s music journey began in her bedroom, where she started experimenting with rap and producing beats using GarageBand.
While studying in the United States, she continued developing her production and songwriting skills before returning to Kenya and establishing herself within the country’s alternative music scene.
Her breakthrough came in 2021 with the release of Love Being Used, a track that attracted millions of streams and introduced her distinctive sound to listeners across the region.
Since then, tg.blk has continued to blend rap, R&B, soul and lo-fi production while remaining committed to her independent artistic vision.
Her 2024 EP, ITS NOT THAT DEEP, alongside tracks such as gin and wine, further strengthened her reputation as one of the most distinctive voices in East Africa’s alternative hip-hop space.
Her music explores identity, vulnerability, authenticity and self-expression, reflecting the experiences of young people navigating relationships, ambition and modern life.
Spotify’s EQUAL Africa programme celebrates women artists shaping the future of African music by amplifying their voices and connecting them with audiences across the continent and beyond.
Spotify Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu praised tg.blk for her originality, vulnerability and independence as a music producer.
“tg.blk represents the fresh, daring and authentic spirit that is propelling the East African alternative music scene forward,” Okumu said.
“Through the EQUAL programme, we are proud to celebrate her unique artistic perspective, her technical independence as a producer and her inspiring commitment to vulnerability.”
Speaking about why she continues pursuing music, tg.blk admitted that she is still figuring out whether it is her destiny, but said creating music brings her genuine happiness.
“I’m still figuring out the destiny part, but I know it makes me incredibly happy whenever I make a song I’m proud of, and that’s why I keep doing it,” she said.
“I’m following my heart, and this is where it has led me.”
The singer described her sound as a chilled and textured mix of rap, R&B and soul.
“It’s the kind of music you listen to on a drive when the weather is beautiful and there’s no need to rush,” she explained.
tg.blk also revealed that she grew up listening to legendary African musicians including Oliver Mtukudzi, Joseph Kamaru, Brenda Fassie and popular Ogopa DJs mixes.
In a surprising confession, the rapper disclosed that she used to write fan fiction before fully pursuing music.
On navigating the male-dominated music industry, tg.blk said she works with people she trusts and relies heavily on her intuition.
“I work with people I trust and respect, and I always trust my gut. As a woman, I’m blessed with amazing intuition,” she said.
“Because I believe in myself and what I know, that confidence comes through in my music. It’s where I become the most confident version of myself.”
She also encouraged young people who are afraid of following their dreams to take the risk and give themselves a chance.
“Give it a chance. You’ll be much happier knowing you tried. You never know what could happen,” she advised.
According to tg.blk, being selected for Spotify’s EQUAL Africa programme is especially meaningful because much of her career was built independently through online platforms.
“Now is the time for women musicians. The power is in your hands, and people want to hear from you,” she said.
“The internet has opened up so many opportunities for us. Being part of the EQUAL programme means so much to me because I built so much of my journey online, and I often feel disconnected from opportunities like this.”
She added that the recognition had affirmed her journey and given her renewed confidence about the future.
“It’s incredibly affirming, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
