Vinka becomes Spotify’s ‘EQUAL Africa’ ambassador for October

Online streaming platform, Spotify, has announced multitalented and chart-topping Ugandan artiste, Veronica Lugya, popularly called “Vinka”, as its ‘EQUAL Africa’ ambassador for October.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, who made the disclosure in a statement in Lagos said EQUAL Africa is an initiative by Spotify aimed at reducing gender inequality in the music industry, highlighting and amplifying the voices of female artistes from across the continent.

“Vinka joins a cohort of outstanding artistes characterised by strength, talent, and of course great music, such as Makhadzi, Maandy, and Xeniah Manasse, just to name a few.

“Vinka is testament to Uganda’s vibrant and thriving music industry and she is a prime example of a female artiste on the continent disrupting the music industry with her unorthodox and innovative music marketing techniques.” Okumu said.

Thank you @SpotifyAfrica for choosing me as the EQUAL ambassador for October 2023 🫶🏽

Y’all don’t stop streaming my music 💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 pic.twitter.com/1EINED8VpQ

— IamVinka (@IamVinka) October 11, 2023

According to Okumu, Vinka’s introduction to music started with artistes such as Awilo Longomba and Koffi Olomide whose music was played regularly while she was growing up.

She said Vinka later entered the music industry as a dancer, a career she soon left behind for artiste management.

Also Read: Teni becomes Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for August

Okumu stated that the switch from technical riders to the mic was the start of a thriving music career in which Vinka had produced hit after hit, with songs like ‘Malaika’ and “Thank God’ showcasing her artistry.

Okumu said Vinka’s commitment to her music and to fans was also made clear during her 2019 campaign to release a new single on the first Friday of every month that year.

Vinka, who described her music as catchy with a unique voice and vibe, urged aspiring young artistes to believe in themselves and stay focused.

“You have to invest your time and sweat to make it work.

“When I started working as an artiste  manager at the record company, I fell in love with music and took it when my opportunity came,” she said.