Spotify, the global streaming platform, has reported a significant increase in podcast listenership and gospel music streams in Nigeria from 2022 to 2024. According to Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa, this surge is in celebration of Easter.
Gen Z’s engagement with gospel content on Spotify has notably increased, indicating its growing popularity. In Nigeria, podcast listenership has surged by 482%, and gospel music streams have shown a remarkable increase of 1228%.
In Kenya, podcast listenership has risen by 69%, with a 365% increase in gospel music streams. South Africa has experienced a 44% rise in podcast listenership, while Ghana has seen an 85% increase. Additionally, gospel music streams in South Africa have surged by 288%, and in Ghana, there is a 329% increase.
The enthusiasm for gospel music is further demonstrated by creating user-generated playlists. Nigeria boasts over 140,000 playlists, while South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana have over 470,000, 70,000, and 45,000 playlists, respectively, all curated by Gen Z users.
Spotify has launched a dedicated Easter gospel hub called “He is Risen.” The hub provides a diverse array of playlists with Lenten selections for reflection and vibrant Christian and Gospel music from across Africa. Additionally, the hub offers enriching podcasts of sermons, Bible study sessions, daily devotions, and prayers from inspiring preachers to support its users’ faith journey and spiritual well-being.
