Abigail Chams, at the remarkable age of 22, has emerged as a groundbreaking force in the global music landscape, becoming the first solo female artist from East Africa to be nominated for a prestigious BET Award. Her journey is not merely about musical success; it encapsulates a profound narrative of raw talent, unwavering dedication, and a visionary approach to artistry that challenges conventional perceptions of music's origins. In this discourse, we delve into the extraordinary story of Abigail Chams, exploring her multifaceted identity as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and youth activist whose influences resonate far beyond the realm of entertainment. We will unravel her distinctive sound—a potent blend of bongo flava, Afropop, R&B, and traditional Tanzanian music—and examine the significant social impact of her advocacy work for mental health and gender equality. Join us as we unpack the insights and lessons from Abigail's remarkable ascent, which serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists and a testament to the power of authentic artistry.

Who is

Welcome to Stagevibes, where we explore the sounds and stories shaping the future of music.

Today’s guest is none other than Abigail Chams — the rising star from Tanzania who’s redefining what it means to be a multi-hyphenate artist.

At just 21, she plays five instruments, sings in multiple languages, and blends Afrobeats, classical violin, and soul into something uniquely her own.

She’s already grabbed the world’s attention with a BET Award nomination for Best New International Act 2025 — but beyond the spotlight, Abigail is also using her voice to speak openly about mental health in Africa.

Who is Abigail beyond the music? What fuels her creativity? And why is she quickly becoming a global icon for Gen Z?

Let’s dive into the world of Abigail Chams — an artist with purpose, power, and something real to say.

Takeaways:

• Abigail Chams, at the remarkable age of 22, has become the first solo female artist from East Africa to be nominated for a BET Award, an achievement that underscores a significant shift in the global music landscape.
• Her journey exemplifies a profound commitment to her musical craft, having engaged with music rigorously since the tender age of five, showcasing an extraordinary dedication to her artistry.
• As a UNICEF youth advocate, Abigail Chams actively addresses critical issues such as mental health and gender equality, demonstrating her commitment to using her platform for substantial social good.
• The unique sound of Abigail Chams integrates diverse musical influences, seamlessly blending Bongo Flava, Afropop, R&B, and traditional Tanzanian elements, marking her as a truly innovative artist on the global stage.
• Her debut EP, released shortly after signing with Sony Music Africa, achieved immediate commercial success, debuting at number one in Tanzania and number three across the African continent, illustrating her powerful connection with audiences.
• Abigail Chams' artistic collaborations with both local and international artists not only enhance her musical versatility but also expand her reach, introducing her to new audiences and continually evolving her sound.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bitinternational
• betafrica
• applemusic.com
• rollingstone.com
• unicef.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Sony Music Africa
• UNICEF
• Spotify
• Tanzania Chamber of Commerce
• BET
• Kelly Clarkson
• Rolling Stone Africa