10 African cities where music fuels culture and travel

Across Africa, music is more than entertainment — it’s driving tourism, boosting local economies, and preserving cultural heritage. From the Afrobeats pulse of Lagos to Johannesburg’s Amapiano scene, cities across the continent are leveraging sound to tell stories and attract visitors. 

In 2025, Apple Music launched its Sounds of Africa campaign, highlighting Accra, Dar es Salaam, Lagos, Nairobi, and Johannesburg as key music capitals shaping global playlists, showcasing the continent’s rich sonic diversity and growing cultural economy. 

But beyond these flagship hubs, smaller cities are blending tradition and innovation in ways that draw both tourists and locals. West African cities such as Lagos and Abidjan host energetic nightlife and music scenes, from Afrobeats to Zouglou, creating spaces where visitors can immerse themselves in local rhythms. 

In East Africa, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam are combining Gengetone, Bongo Flava, and other contemporary styles with cultural storytelling. Meanwhile, Johannesburg consistently ranks among Southern Africa’s most dynamic creative centers, exporting Amapiano and House to international audiences.

African music cities driving culture and tourism 

1. Lagos, Nigeria –  Lagos, the Afrobeats hub, fuses arena concerts with intimate club nights. Annual events like the Lagos International Jazz Festival at Freedom Park and Shakara Music Festival at Lekki Peninsula showcase Africa’s vibrant music scene.

2. Johannesburg, South Africa – A crossroads for Amapiano, Kwaito and jazz. Major festivals and touring acts keep hotels and venues busy throughout the year.

3. Accra, Ghana – A rising musical hub blending Highlife, Afropop, and hip-hop, with festivals and lively night spots connecting local audiences and the diaspora.

4. Nairobi, Kenya –East Africa’s creative capital, home to Gengetone, Afro-pop, and live venues that nurture local talent and attract regional audiences.

5. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The birthplace of Bongo Flava, where traditional taarab and modern music converge in live performances and cultural events.

6. Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – A Francophone trendsetter featuring Zoblazo and Coupé-Décalé, with clubs and media outlets that cement its status as a West African sound center.

7. Cape Town, South Africa – Famous for eclectic nightlife, DJ culture, and scenic music festivals that enhance the city’s cultural tourism appeal.

8. Mombasa, Kenya – A coastal hub where taarab, Bango, and Chakacha rhythms meet beachside tourism for a distinctive musical experience.

9. Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Port Harcourt has built a following around events such as the annual Bole Festival, drawing regional crowds.

10. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – A home to Ethio-Jazz and traditional music houses, blending history with contemporary performances that enrich cultural tourism.

These cities show that Africa’s music capitals are far from uniform. Each offers unique rhythms, experiences, and stories that shape tourism patterns, safeguard heritage, and support growing creative economies across the continent.