The Nigerian music industry has witnessed continuous growth in recent years, thanks to the vibrant and highly optimistic musicians within it. This dynamic sector has given rise to both local and internationally acclaimed music superstars and modern icons.
The illustrious and forward-thinking Nigerian music industry is brimming with captivating success stories. The emerging Nigerian Afro singers have made an incredible impact on the music scene.
Are you eager to discover the top Afrobeat talents emerging from Nigeria, known for their originality, resilience, and creativity?
We’ve compiled a list of 11 rising Afrobeat maestros from Nigeria who are currently dominating the music landscape with their scorching singles and debut albums:
- Khaid
- Boy Spyce
- Ruger
- Asake
- Portable
- Crayon
- Magix
- Bayanni
- Sparkle Tee
- Jeri
- Hotkid
Khaid:
Nigeria has bestowed its musical blessings upon Khaid, a budding artist now making waves under Neville Records. Khaid, originally known as Sulaiman Shekoni Solomon, is a versatile Nigerian professional who wears the hats of a singer-songwriter, rapper, and entertainer.
Khaid’s journey to musical stardom took off in 2022 with his creatively perpetual track titled “With You.” This talented artist inked a record deal with Neville Records in the same year, thanks to his association with Sydney Talker Records.
On February 14, 2022, Khaid’s recognition gained momentum with the release of his lyrical masterpiece, “With You,” which quickly climbed to number forty-eight on TurnTable’s Top 50 singles chart.
Khaid’s success in the Nigerian music scene owes much to the comedian and architect of Neville Records, Sydney Talker.
Sulaiman Abiola Shekoni’s early life was rooted in Shibiri Ojo, Lagos state, Nigeria, where he made a living as a roadside repairperson. Balancing his mechanical work with his musical aspirations, Khaid’s dedication shone through.
In one of his interviews with Pulse Nigeria, Khaid revealed, “My Dad advised me to learn a new skill since making music wasn’t paying the bills.” It was Khaid’s viral freestyle on Instagram that caught Sydney Talker’s attention, ultimately leading to his signing under the Neville record label in 2022.
Khaid believes that Sydney Talker transformed his life, and he uses his song “SKI” to vividly depict his journey from obscurity to stardom.
This hardworking and fast-rising artist, Khaid, has consistently delivered exciting tracks in a short span, including “Ski,” “With You,” and “Amala.” Notably, he has collaborated with renowned Nigerian music producer Rexxie and Zlatan Ibile, the founder of the Zanku movement.
Boy Spyce:
Success in the music industry is often the result of unwavering consistency, and one Nigerian Afrobeat maestro has exemplified this with utmost professionalism in his career.
Gbekile David Osemeke, born on May 10, 2021, in Edo State, Nigeria, is the rising star known as Boy Spyce. His educational journey led him to Lagos State Model College Kankon, Badagry, Nigeria, where he pursued his studies, culminating in the West African Examination Council (WAEC).
Professionally, Boy Spyce embarked on his music career in 2022, securing a record deal with Mavin Records, a prestigious label founded by the legendary Nigerian musician Don Jazzy.
Boy Spyce’s ascent in the music industry began with his knack for creating cover songs and sharing them on social media platforms. The pivotal moment came when Don Jazzy discovered Boy Spyce’s talent on Instagram, particularly his rendition of “Essence,” a hit song by Nigerian Grammy-award-winning artist Wizkid. Impressed by his natural abilities, Don Jazzy wasted no time in signing Boy Spyce to Mavin Records, recognizing the potential for greatness.
Boy Spyce’s musical journey has since taken him far and wide, with a repertoire of songs and an impressive debut extended playlist released in April 2022, aptly titled “Boy Spyce.”
Ruger:
In the Nigerian music industry, Ruger stands out as an indispensable and charismatic maestro who consistently delivers meticulous and inspiring songs.
Born in Lagos State, Nigeria, in September 1999, Micheal Adebayo Olayinka, known as Ruger, is a Nigerian Afrobeat singer and songwriter. His music journey has been marked by the release of well-crafted songs and albums, earning him a prominent position in the industry.
In 2021, Ruger signed with “Jozing World Record,” an affiliated brand of Columbia Records and Sony Music Entertainment United Kingdom division. This move marked a significant step in his career.
Ruger’s debut extended playlist, “Pandemic,” released in 2021, included the chart-topping “Bounce,” which soared to the 39th position on the Nigerian Top 50 chart. TurnTable’s End of the Year chart also listed “Bounce” as number 20, while Apple Music recognized it as one of the best-performing afrobeat songs of the year. Ruger’s success is a testament to his consistent dedication to nurturing his natural talents from a young age.
The pivotal moment in Ruger’s journey came with his discovery by D’Prince, a renowned Nigerian record producer and modern superstar.
Ruger’s melodious discography includes hits like “Bounce,” “One Shirt,” “Red Flags,” and “Asiwaju.” His talents have earned him numerous prestigious awards in the music industry, including AFRIMMA, AEAUSA, The Beatz Awards, Peace Legend Award, The Headies 2022, and Soundcity MVP. Additionally, Ruger has secured endorsements from EKO Hotel and Tiger Beer, solidifying his status as a true luminary in the Nigerian music scene.
Asake:
The Nigerian and African music scene has witnessed the rise of Asake, a true testament to painstaking hard work and a unique musical style.
Asake’s musical prowess and clever songwriting skills are nothing short of exceptional, especially when it comes to live performances. Born Ahmed Ololade on January 13, 1995, in Lagos state, Nigeria, he is a versatile Nigerian artist known for his skills in songwriting, Afro-fusion, afrobeat, hip hop, and AfroPop. His educational journey led him to Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, where he pursued Dramatic Arts.
Asake made his debut in the music industry in 2018 and quickly emerged as a top-rising artist in Nigeria, thanks to his debut single, “Lady,” which dropped in 2021. Collaborating with influential figures in the Nigerian music scene, Grammy award-winning artists, and record label founders, Asake solidified his place in the spotlight.
His rise to prominence was greatly attributed to his association with YBNL Records and Empire Distribution. Notable artists such as Burna Boy, Olamide, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML, and Rexxie have played pivotal roles in Asake’s journey. His impressive catalog includes tracks like “Mr. Money,” “Lady,” “Terminator,” “Sungba,” and “Baba God.” This meticulous artist, Asake, is on a path to achieving international recognition and ratings in the music industry.
Portable:
In the music industry, adversity can sometimes be the stepping stone to greatness, and Portable’s journey is a testament to this, marked by sumptuous highs and controversial attributes.
Portable, a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene, rose to prominence with his indigenous music, aided by the creative talents of renowned dancer Poco Lee and the backing of YBNL Record Label, founded by Olamide.
Born in March 1994 in Ijesha, Osun state, Nigeria, Habeeb Olawunmi Oyegbile, professionally known as Portable or Dr. Zeh, is a top-rising afrobeat superstar, rapper, and songwriter.
Portable established his Zeh Nation Record Label and had been releasing songs before gaining widespread recognition. He made a significant impact on the Nigerian music industry with his debut single, “Zazoo Zehh,” which featured the distinguished dancer and entertainer, Poco Lee, and the Nigerian YBNL executive rapper, singer-songwriter, and performer, Olamide Gbenga Adedeji.
Portable’s journey has been marked by controversy and trolling, which have both negatively impacted and positively influenced his career. Notably, he received nominations for the 2022 The Headies awards in categories such as “Best Street Artist” and “Rookie of the Year.”
Crayon:
Crayon’s emergence in the global music scene is owed to Blowtime Entertainment, a subsidiary of Mavin Records. His contributions to Nigerian entertainment have provided hope for budding Afrobeat artists.
Charles Chibueze Chukwu, known professionally as Crayo, was born on July 8, 2000, in Surulere, Lagos state, Nigeria, hailing from the eastern part of the country, Ebonyi state.
Charles Chibueze attended Treasure Court College in Ojo, Lagos state, completing his secondary education there.
Crayon’s music journey took flight under Blowtime Entertainment, an affiliate of Mavin Records, founded by the renowned music producer Micheal Collins Ajereh, known as Don Jazzy.
He has released remarkable tracks like “Kpano,” “Shima,” “Mo Bad,” and “Jackpot,” featuring Bella Shmurda. In 2019, Crayon dropped his extended playlist, “Cray Cray,” under the umbrella of Blowtime Entertainment & Mavin Records.
In 2021, he continued to make waves with the highly anticipated extended playlist titled “Twelve AM,” released under Mavin Record and Blowtime Entertainment. Crayon’s “Excuse Me” garnered a nomination for The Headies Award in 2019.
Magixx:
In the vibrant world of multinational Afrobeats, Magixx from Mavin Records has showcased his innate musical talents, transcending borders with his music.
Alexander Adelabu, professionally known as Magixx, is a Nigerian afro-fusion and afro-pop singer. He attended the University of Lagos, where he earned a degree in Mass Communication.
Magixx caught the attention of Micheal Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, who signed him under Mavin Records. This collaboration led to the release of multiple extended playlists, including “Magixx EP” and “Atom EP.” Notably, Magixx featured Ayra Starr, a fellow label mate singer, in one of his latest debut singles, “Love Don’t Cost a Dime.”
Magixx’s popularity soared when his newly released debut single reached the 27th position on the TurnTable 50 chart in Nigeria. In 2022, he was nominated for The Headies Award in the category of “Rookie of the Year.”
Bayanni:
Innovative ideas often take root early in life, and Bayanni is a shining example of a self-taught afrobeat rising star who emerged from the Mavin Record Academy Foundation. His journey to stardom began with the viral hit “Ta Ta Ta.”
Bayanni’s distinctive style reflects the natural beauty of his humble beginnings. Under the mentorship of Mavin Record, he honed his musical skills, crafting prolific melodies and delivering captivating freestyles on trending Nigerian songs.
Born on June 25, 1997, Bayanni is also a student at Obafemi Awolowo University in Lagos. Within the Mavin Record community of artists, including Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, Magixx, Johnny Drille, Rema, and Boy Spyce, Abimbola Oladokun, aka Bayanni, has dazzled with his talent.
Mavin Records Entertainment serves as a beacon of stardom in the Nigerian music industry, where aspiring Afrobeat stars like Bayanni showcase their skills and talents. His impressive track record includes hits like “Kala,” “Body,” “Ta Ta Ta,” and “Family,” produced by the legendary Micheal Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy.
The story of Bayanni’s rise to stardom is a testament to the support of his family, who recognized his passion and dreams in music.
Sparkle Tee:
Sparkle Tee’s unique songwriting style has positioned him as one of Nigeria’s prominent Afrobeat singers and rappers today. His debut singles and albums have consistently showcased his lyrical prowess, captivating the music industry.
Timothy Ebere Ezekiel, known as Sparkle Tee, hails from Imo state but was born in Auchi, Edo state, Nigeria, in 1991. This 32-year-old artist specializes in Afro-pop, Highlife, and rap genres, where he shines with originality.
Sparkle Tee’s music journey began with the release of “Talk Am,” a song that earned praise from numerous Nigerian influencers and music enthusiasts. His unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial spirit have catapulted him to fame.
One of his most impactful tracks, “Hustle Dot Com,” serves as a beacon of motivation, conveying the message of hard work and vision. Sparkle Tee is not only a talented artist but also a cultured and well-respected figure in the industry.
JeriQ:
The captivating soundscape of “No More Nleka” left Nigerians in awe of JeriQ’s musical prowess, paying homage to the melodic modernity of “Remember.” Collaborations with top music performers, DJs, and executive producers like Flavour N’abali, DJ Neptune, Zoro, and other renowned artists have further solidified his presence in the music scene.
Jeremiah Chukwuebuka Ani, professionally known as JeriQ, was born on May 6, 1999, and is an extraordinary Nigerian rapper and songwriter. He received his musical education in Nkpor, a prominent city in Idemili North, Anambra state. JeriQ’s musical journey began long before he graduated from Immaculate Conception College in Enugu state, Nigeria.
With tracks like “Already Made,” “Better Day Ahead,” “God Is Da Plug,” and “Back To Basics,” JeriQ has positioned himself as a leading rap artist in eastern Nigeria. His debut album, “Billion Dollar Dream,” features meticulous production by talents like Insane Chips, Extraordinary, Soo Flashy, Enaps, and other creative innovators.
Hotkid:
In the first half of 2022, “Otilo (Izz Gone” showcased Hotkid’s musical prowess. His discography includes hits like “Ozana,” “MANDEM,” “Freaky,” and “Credit Alert.”
As a member of the P572 Record Label, alongside Shiloh Harrison, Rob Butcher III, and Peter McIntosh, Hotkid released his debut album, featuring tracks such as “Honorable,” “Truth or Deceiver,” “Late Night Mornings,” and his latest singles. His musical journey continues to captivate audiences with his unique sound and artistry.
In conclusion, the Nigerian music industry has been a steadfast nurturing ground for emerging Afrobeat artists, offering a vibrant platform to showcase their dynamic talents and amplify their presence on the global stage.
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