Joeboy Headlines CNN’s African Voices, Shares Journey from Campus Dreamer to Global Afrobeats Star

Joeboy Headlines CNN’s African Voices, Shares Journey from Campus Dreamer to Global Afrobeats Star

Nigerian Afropop star Joeboy takes centre stage on this week’s Easter edition of African Voices on CNN, offering an intimate account of his rise from a university student in Lagos to a globally recognised music sensation.

In a candid interview with host Larry Madowo, the singer-songwriter reflects on the defining moments that shaped his career and earned him the reputation as one of Afrobeats’ leading romantic voices.

Born Joseph Akinwale Akinfenwa-Donus, Joeboy’s turning point came in 2017 when his viral cover of Ed Sheeran’s hit song Shape of You gained widespread attention online. The performance caught the interest of music executive Mr. Eazi, who subsequently recruited him into the emPawa Africa Talent Incubation programme.

The collaboration proved pivotal, launching a string of successes beginning with his 2018 single Fààjí and culminating in a record deal with Warner Music Africa.

Joeboy’s breakthrough year came in 2019 with hit singles Baby and Beginning, the latter amassing millions of views on YouTube and cementing his status as a household name across Africa. He has since collaborated with notable artists, including Mayorkun.

The artiste has sustained his momentum with the release of his debut album Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic in 2021 and his sophomore project Body & Soul in 2023. In a significant career move, he launched his own record label, Young Legend, in February 2024, alongside the release of his single Osadebe.

Joeboy’s contributions to the music industry have earned him recognition at prestigious platforms such as the All Africa Music Awards and the Soundcity MVP Awards.

The African Voices episode will air on DSTV Channel 401 throughout the week, beginning with its premiere on Saturday at 7:30 a.m., followed by multiple repeat broadcasts, giving viewers ample opportunity to watch the inspiring story of one of Africa’s fast-rising global music icons.