One 8 collaboration voted 2011 Best Bets

Airtel One8 which debuted in November 2010 with ‘Hands Across the World’ features eight of Africa’s top acts among whom are Nigeria’s Tuface, Tanzanian Ali Kiba, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Fally Ipupa, Ghana’s 4X4, Gabon’s Movazhaleine, Zambia’s JK, Uganda’s Navio and Kenya’s Amani along with R Kelly who wrote and produced the debut single. According […]

Airtel One8 which debuted in November 2010 with ‘Hands Across the World’ features eight of Africa’s top acts among whom are Nigeria’s Tuface, Tanzanian Ali Kiba, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Fally Ipupa, Ghana’s 4X4, Gabon’s Movazhaleine, Zambia’s JK, Uganda’s Navio and Kenya’s Amani along with R Kelly who wrote and produced the debut single. According to the Billboard, “the group and R-Kelly connection, no less, is poised to build a sustainable global audience for the continent’s music industry. Last year, the publication crowned R-Kelly as the top 25 R&B/hip-hop artists of the past twenty-five years.”

‘Hands Across the World’ supported by Airtel Africa with a goal to assemble of some of Africa’s best, was produced and digitally released by the Sony Music/Rockstar 4000 label.

With the single at the moment receiving over 500,000 reviews and 20 Million hits on the Airtel live portal, its recognition has continued to skyrocket up the charts as one of the top ten across no less than sixteen countries.

According to Airtel Africa’s Chief Marketing Officer, Andre Beyers the recognition has demonstrated both the potential impact African music and local artists can have on the international music scene, as well as the benefits of diversity in music. “The Airtel One8 super group is a living and breathing example of the diversity and cultural mix of Africa. It expresses the spirit, talent and rhythm of Africa.”

Plans are underway for the release of a full length Airtel One8 album which will include ‘Hands Across the World’ and four regional mixes as well as one new hit from each of the African stars of the group.