Afrobeats Intelligence, widely regarded as the leading podcast dedicated to African music, has returned for its fifth season with host Joey Akan, an award-winning Nigerian music journalist whose candid, expert-led conversations have made the show a touchstone for the global Afrobeats community.
Presented once again by OkayAfrica and sponsored by Martell, the new season features an expansive line-up of guests including Shallipopi, Nigerian-American rapper Wale, producer Sarz, Ladipoe, Kcee, Joshua Baraka, BOJ, Aniko, Dr Sid, Jyde Ajala, Tec of Show Dem Camp, Winny, Magixx, and Alhaji Popping, among others.
Since its inception, Afrobeats Intelligence has built a reputation for unflinching honesty. Past seasons have yielded some of the most talked-about moments in music media: Tiwa Savage spoke candidly about the financial pressures of fame and what it means to be a woman in the industry; Lanre Masha of Sony delivered blunt assessments of the business landscape; manager Donawon recalled betting his last $500 on a then-unknown Tems; and Timaya recounted his early years going door-to-door to get his music heard.
Speaking ahead of the new season, Akan said the show would go further than ever before. “This new season goes deeper, with bigger conversations, sharper stories, and more access to the people who are building the future and sound of African music on a global scale,” he said.
The show’s partnership with OkayAfrica, which began in season four, has proved a natural alignment of vision. That season reached millions of listeners and viewers worldwide. Isha Sesay, Chief Executive of Areya Media — OkayAfrica’s parent company — described the collaboration as a matter of both pride and purpose.
“We have always worked to present our people, our stories, and our music with truth and dignity,” Sesay said. “In 2026, we will continue to support the infrastructure and investment behind Africa’s leading voices. It is work that is paramount.”
Season five of Afrobeats Intelligence is streaming now on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
