From Bulawayo to Lagos: Wavio's Africa Expansion

Wavio Records: Expanding into Africa with the Signing of Msiz’Kay and Khayor

It all started with a conversation on The Wavio Way! podcast. South African actress, singer and rapper Linda Ray sat down with us and laid it bare: there’s a wealth of talent across Africa, but a gap when it comes to nurturing it — and a refusal from the Western world to fully acknowledge its power.

Linda-Ray on 'The Wavio Way!'

Wavio co-founder Zulu Abantu didn’t need convincing. He pushed for the label to lean into this vision. After hearing Amapiano for the first time, co-founder Kristian James (aka Krids) was equally locked in. The decision was made: Wavio would be part of the shift, investing in the future of African music and amplifying the voices that deserve to be heard on a global stage.

From there, scouting began — and Linda Ray wasn’t wrong. It didn’t take long to discover Khayor, a young, hungry talent blending Afrobeat roots with undeniable charisma, and Msiz’Kay, an already established star and household name in Zimbabwe. With accolades like Outstanding Male Artist of the Year at the Bulawayo Arts Awards (2020 and 2021) and Best Male Artist at the 2019 Sky Metro Music Awards — not to mention multiple awards for his individual tracks — Msiz’Kay brings both pedigree and versatility to the Wavio roster.

Msiz'Kay

Khayor, although less experienced, brings youth, hunger and an unwavering sense of self-belief. Working under the mentorship of Zulu Abantu, there’s a belief he has everything it takes to become even bigger than Wizkid and Burna Boy. As Zulu Abantu puts it:

“He’s way more talented than anyone I’ve met at that age — and more importantly, he’s committed and has drive.”

Khayor

After a few meetings, it was clear: the visions were aligned. Deals were signed — Khayor on a two-year artist development deal, and Msiz’Kay on an EP deal with a view to extend.

This marks the beginning of Wavio’s Africa expansion — not as tourists or trend-chasers, but as real believers in the future of the continent’s sound.