Feyikemi Akin-Bankole has established herself as a leader in African media and communications. She is the Associate Communications Manager at Spotify for West Africa. Akin-Bankole’s journey into the music and media industry began with her return to Lagos in 2019 after graduating from the University of Warwick in England with a degree in business management.
The immersion
Upon her return, she quickly immersed herself in the vibrant Nigerian music market. She joined Aristokrat Records as an A&R and collaborated with emerging artists, shaping their unique sounds and creative visions. This immersive experience not only deepened her understanding of the music creation process but also offered her firsthand insight into the transformative power of music.
Fueled by passion and an insatiable curiosity for the wider media landscape, Feyikemi Akin-Bankole broadened her professional scope by interning with CNBC Africa as a Marketing Editor. There, she honed her skills in media strategy, content creation, and editorial planning, leveraging her artistic foundation to convey compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
Her career progressed at Bounce Networks, where she served as Head of Music. She played a vital role in curating talent and guiding the platform’s music and content strategy. These experiences gave her the creative and strategic edge that defines her influence at Spotify, a globally recognised audio streaming and media service provider.
A bit about Spotify
Spotify boasts over 675 million monthly users and 263 million premium subscribers across 180+ countries. The company has revolutionised music consumption with personalised playlists and an extensive content library. Beyond entertainment, it plays a crucial role in empowering artists—especially in emerging markets like Africa—by providing visibility, global reach, and new revenue streams. In 2024, Spotify reported €15.67 billion in revenue, with its West African division among its fastest-growing sectors, underscoring its increasing influence on African artists’ careers and the continent’s music economy.
Leading with dexterity and passion
Since joining Spotify, Akin-Bankole, a dynamic media professional, has driven the brand’s rapid growth and success across West Africa. Her contributions have helped the company gain significant visibility and become a major force in promoting African music globally.
She leads Spotify’s VIP influencer program and is a key liaison between the brand and its creative agency. Her main responsibilities include managing talent partnerships, overseeing campaign communications, and crafting culturally relevant storytelling that reflects the company’s regional voice.
One of her goals is to enhance the brand’s presence and ensure that African listeners and artists can access the platform’s full range of services. She works diligently with influencers and media publications to amplify the brand’s efforts strategically.
In addition to her role at Spotify, Feyikemi Akin-Bankole is the co-host of F&S Uncensored, a prominent podcast with over 200 episodes, recognised for its candid and humorous perspectives on music, pop culture, and the daily lives of young Nigerians. Through the podcast, she continues to shape discussions about African music and culture, further affirming her status as a trusted and influential voice in the African media landscape.
Additional reporting by Ishioma Imokhai-Bello.
