Popular singer, Adedamola Adefolahan otherwise known as Fireboy, has been selected among other African musicians and creators, who will benefit from YouTube’s grant programme.
In a statement made available to the public, YouTube disclosed that it’s using capital from its $100 million #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund, which launched last year, to create a global grant program for Black creators.
The programme is kicking off with the #YouTubeBlack Voices Class of 2021: A group of 132 creators from six countries, which includes 21 music artistes.
The 132 creators hail from the United States, Kenya, Brazil, Australia, South Africa, and Nigeria.
Aside from Fireboy, other African artistes in the inaugural class are –Brent Faiyaz, BRS Kash, Jean Dawson, Jensen McRae, Jerome Farah, Joy Oladokun, KennyHoopla, Mariah the Scientist, MC Carol, Miiesha, Myke Towers, Péricles, Rael, Rexx Life Raj, Sauti Sol, serpentwithfeet, Sho Madjozi, Tkay Maidza, Urias and Yung Baby Tate.
Commending Fireboy and other selected artistes selected for their efforts in promoting African music, Lyor Cohen, the Global Head of YouTube Music, stated: “There’s no question how significant of an impact Black music has had, not just in America, but globally.”
“Our expectation is that these artists are going to be significant and important voices, and make music even more enjoyable,” Cohen added.