The Rise of Afrobeats in Scotland

The Rise of Afrobeats in Scotland

by Leo Fakhrul, Founder of Mamba Sounds

When we started Mamba Sounds, it wasn’t about chasing hype — it was about bridging a gap. Afrobeats and its surrounding genres were dominating globally, yet in Scotland, there was no real infrastructure to support the sound — or the artists behind it. We saw a disconnect. So we did what we could with what we had. And slowly, the culture started shifting around us.

The turning point came when we hit our first million streams. Seeing our name next to that number was surreal. It proved that what we were building had weight — that people were listening. From that moment, we doubled down. Bigger artists reached out, new opportunities opened up, and our platform became more than just a curation project. It became a movement.

Building Infrastructure, Not Just Hype Mamba Sounds is an artist collective, a cultural platform, and a tech-enabled consultancy focused on uplifting African-led genres and the artists shaping them. We’ve grown a global listener base of over 2 million and surpassed 7 million streams. But more importantly, we’ve built tools — like our artist platform, where musicians can submit their work for feedback and curation. We back that process with real data, honest guidance, and a clear mission: to help artists grow on their own terms.

We’re active on the airwaves — with a regular slot on EHFM (second Thursdays, 6–7pm) and a new show launching soon on Jambo! Radio. And we’re entering important conversations too. This month, we’re presenting at the Royal Bank of Scotland, and in June, we’ll be leading a panel at the Scottish Parliament to talk about the future of music infrastructure in this country.

None of this came easy. We built without a blueprint. Every opportunity came from intention, self-belief, and consistency. There’s still work to do, but the path is clearer now — and we’re proud to help lead it.

Scotland Is Ready. Are You?

Afrobeats isn’t an import anymore - it’s part of Scotland’s sound now. Diaspora communities in cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen have brought rhythm, roots, and real momentum. But recognition still lags behind reality. Collectives like Raven Afrikulture are doing vital work — proof that something powerful is building.

To the artists, producers, and creatives just starting out: you’re not too early. You’re right on time. The platform is real. The path is opening. And we’re here to help you move smart, loud, and proud.

To the wider public: show up. Go to gigs. Discover something new. Don’t wait for London to validate what’s happening here.

Scotland doesn’t need permission - it needs belief. The sound is already here. Back it.

Mamba Sounds exists to help make that belief louder, sharper, and real.

—Leo Fakhrul, Founder of Mamba Sounds