5 African Female Music Directors
Evidently, that the ratio of female music directors to their male counterparts is significantly low, with approximately 10 male directors for every female director. This disparity is influenced by various factors, primarily the prevailing patriarchal state within the industry. Women face challenges in earning trust and opportunities to handle intricate projects.
We’ve highlighted a few female directors who have and continue to push the boundaries in the visual sector for African music.
Director Pink
Pinkline Productions, led by the talented Praise Onyeagawalam, has risen to prominence in the past three years, establishing “Director Pink” as a distinguished brand within the music video industry.
Director Pink’s strength lies in her unique storytelling perspective and ability to tailor visuals to match the artist’s aesthetic, distinguishing her from competitors regardless of gender. Her catalogue is categorized by unprecedented greatness and pristine quality in the execution of her projects.
From Chike’s traditional wedding extravaganza-themed visuals for Roju to the tribute to the Late Mohbad on his Eqwu Collaboration with Chike, then Directing numerous videos, including works for artists like Rexxie featuring Wizkid, and recently Phyno ‘s Bop hit ” I do” featuring Burna Boy.
Kemi Adetiba
Prior to the success of star- studded Wedding Party and the satirical King of Boys, and gaining household recognition in Nollywood for being an oustanding filmaker.
Kemi Adetiba has long made her mark as a creative director for Nigerian music videos. She received nominations for Best Video Director Awards at The Headies in 2014 and won the City People’s Awards for Best Video Director of the Year in 2015. Adetiba’s debut in music direction began with Ty Bello’s “Ekundayo” video, which earned the Best Female Video award at the Soundcity TV Music Video Awards. In 2010, her work on Omawunmi’s “Today na Today” also received acclaim, winning the Best Female Music Video award at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards. Adetiba boasts a diverse portfolio and a strong clientele base.
Dalia Dias
The Nigerian-Egyptian is a multifaceted industry mogul, establishing prominence in music and creative Director roles, and photography.
With a cross-continental repertoire, international recognition, and versatility she takes on projects from photoshoots to brand commercials then does her signature magic over music videos.
The world is her oyster and this documents her approach to taking on projects, in which its execution is trusted in her creative brilliance. Her internationally recognized prowess is evident in her work with mainstream artists such as Davido, Chris Brown, and the City Girls. Dias’s ability to adapt to various artistic styles while capturing the essence of each artist’s personality deserves applause and recognition.
Scilla Owusu
Priscilla Akosua Boatemaa Owusu, a Ghanaian native, has professionally managed projects for esteemed African artists like Fuse ODG and Burna Boy, Wande Coal,Patoranking, Mr Eazi underscoring her expertise and building a notable client base. In 2020, she was selected for Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in Africa, honoring her dedication and excellence in her field.
Edith Nwekenta
The Nigerian-Ghanaian screenwriter, music, and film producer. She might be popularly known for being the female director behind Stoneboy’s Mightylele, and her “Mum, Dad Meet Sam” feature film that was available for streaming on Netflix.
She directed Coffee’s ft Wande Coal’s “ Wata Gemu” video with a special appearance from Maleek Berry.