By Cosmas Ahamefula
Nigeria Afrobeats has gained a slow but widest popularity, which has come to dominate Spotify and YouTube playlists. Yet this genre is now influencing artists in foreign countries to track its origin back to Nigeria. Early development was credited to artists such as Fela Kuti between the 1960s and 1970s. He blended traditional Yoruba music with Western jazz and funk to create a unique and rich tempo. After him, the likes of 2Baba, 9ice, D’banj, and P-Square were among the pioneers of this newly-created genre, and their success paved the way for the next generation of artists, who would take Afrobeats to meet a high standard. In the mid -2010, the limelight for Afrobeats began in the mid-2010s when artists such as Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy started to gain stardom leading to international recognition and collaboration with global fast-rising stars, earning spots on major international music charts. D’banj enjoyed global success with his 2012 hit Oliver Twist, which made the top 10 on the official UK Singles Chart and was number two in the UK R&B Charts, and it has been described by Premium Times Nigeria as the first time Afrobeats took hold in the UK. Wizkid’s collaboration with Canadian rapper, Drake on “One Dance” in 2016 was another monumental moment that propelled Afrobeats into the global mainstream. And this rise of streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube played a pivotal role in this breakthrough, making it easier for fans, and lovers across the globe to discover shaping and enjoy Afrobeats.
As a genre, Afrobeats has put West Africa firmly on the map, opening the eyes of African artists to many opportunities like streaming, international tours brand endorsements, and global awards. Its global rise has introduced the world to the rich tapestry of West African music, dancing style and slang. As a genre, it’s not only a medium of entertaining but also educating global audiences, while becoming firmly entrenched in the heart of pop culture. And its popularity shows no signs of bowing down in any due time. Social media also contributed to the genre’s rise, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok helping viral songs reach audiences far beyond the African continent, with songs by Davido and Wizkid gaining popularity through their TikTok dance routines. The Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US recently added an Afrobeats category, with Burna Boy and fellow Nigerian star Rema awarded as the best-performing Afrobeats artists . Burna Boy, who was also the winner of the inaugural Afrobeats Grammy award in the UK, dedicated his award “to Africa and every artist coming out of Africa now.” Rema won an award for his song “Calm Down”, which has landed multiple streaming and chart records. The influence of Afrobeats can be seen across various music genres, as artists from different backgrounds incorporate its unique rhythms and sound into their work.
In each decade, new stars are being produced while old stars take a bow. The likes of Vector, MI,9ice, Don-Jazzy, and Banky W, have not been releasing albums as before, giving the bait to the upcoming artists to showcase their talent.
Some underground artists have been exceptionally making impacts behind the show but yet to have a headway to come to the limelight. The majority of these underground artists are brilliant – performing artists whose style of singing has been topnotch in the music industry for over a decade, yet they have broken even. In the multitude of them, some of them are exceptional. Take the likes of Nito-P, Otega, Rema, Fireboy, Balloranking, Oxlade and Bella Shmurda.
Paul Otasowie Ajayi, known by his stage name Nito- p was bred in Benin City, Edo State. His journey began in 2012, inspired by legendary Nigerian rapper, Dagrin. His passion for music took root during his university years where he was encouraged and supported by friends who believed in his talent. Their belief in him gave him the confidence to pay rapt attention to music.
Nito-P’s sound blends Afro Hip-Hop and Afrobeats, resonating with his cultural heritage. He describes his sound as a rapper with undiluted flows,”. “It’s raw, real, and it comes straight from his heart. His lyrics are untamed truth resonating with people.”
Over the years, Nito-P has released several notable singles like “Ghetto Life” and “Odogwu.” Each release showcases his versatility and growth as an artist. “Most wanted became a turning point for him. His first project gave him the chance to express himself. Two of his songs, “Ghetto Life” and ‘Odogwu are personal favorites because they tell stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph. They speak about his life journey and the journey of so many others,”
As he prepares for the release of his debut album, fans can expect a project that not only highlights Nito-P’s lyrical prowess but also his dedication to uplifting the next generation of musicians.
Ifedayo Oghenetega Stephen, better known by the stage name Otega or Otega Bilz is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. He was born on 16th October 1994 in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State in Nigeria. He hails from Nigeria’s Edo State, where he was raised. He attended the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, where he got his OND in Computer Science He is known for his soulful voice and catchy melodies. His songs often deal with themes of love, relationships, and everyday life. Ortega began his career in 2010 by posting freestyles online. He came to popularity, though, when he collaborated with indigenous rapper CDQ on his track “Stay Woke.” His collaboration with Diamond Jimma on the song “Aje” established his position in the business by showcasing his immaculate lyricism and flexibility. His dedication won him a recording contract with the ‘Advert Gang Record Label.’ Otega is a classic performer who exudes energetic vibes. He has a slew of hit singles under his belt, including “Save Me,” “Na My Life,” “Caribbean Way,” “I Dey Feel You,” “Case May Be,” “Light Up,” and “Nobody.” He has also collaborated with Jaguar Paw, MrGbafun, Ayanfe Viral, King Ferrari, and Samstar. On October 22, 2019, he released his debut studio album, titled ‘Death Before Dishonor. So far, he has four albums to his credit: ‘’Death Before Dishonor’’, “Price Paid,” “Outta My Sight,” and “Really Hard,” which was published on October 16, 2020. Otega has been nominated for several awards, including the Nigerian Music Awards and the Lagos Music Festival Awards. He won the award for Best New Artist at the Nigerian Music Awards in 2020. Otega has been nominated for several awards, including the Nigerian Music Awards and the Lagos Music Festival Awards. He won the award for Best New Artist at the Nigerian Music Awards in 2020.
Divine Ikubor, mononymously known as Rema,was born on May 1, 2000. He is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and rapper. Birthed into a Christian family in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He discovered his passion for music during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State, where he began singing and rapping. After losing his father and elder brother, Rema was raised by his mother, who played a significant role in shaping his life. He gained initial recognition with his 2019 song “Dumebi”. That same year, he signed with D’Prince’s record label, Jonzing World.Rema (born Divine Ikubor on May 1, 2000) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who rose to prominence in 2019. He gained widespread attention with his debut single “Iron Man,” which was included in former U.S. President Barack Obama’s summer playlist. Rema is signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, founded by renowned Nigerian producer Don Jazzy.
Rema’s music blends Afrobeats, trap, and pop, creating a unique sound often referred to as “Afro-rave.” His breakout hit “Dumebi” further cemented his place in the global music scene, earning him recognition across Africa and beyond. In 2020, Rema released the single “Beamer (Bad Boys),” further expanding his reach into international markets.
Fireboy DML was born and raised in Abeokuta, Ogun state, and was a member of his church choir. He developed an interest in music while studying at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English. He moved to Lagos to pursue music as a full-time career. His breakthrough single “Jealous” first appeared on YBNL Nation’s collaborative album, YBNL Mafia Family (2018), before being re-released on 25 March 2019. The song is composed of guitar riffs, traditional drums and percussion; it combines African harmonies with elements of country and soul music. “Jealous” was produced by Cracker Mallo and is centred around love and the complicated feelings that go along with it. The visuals for “Jealous” were directed by Director K.
In June 2019, Fireboy DML released the ballad single “What If I Say”. It was produced by Pheelz, who incorporated a mix of percussion, ambient synth harmonies, and a drum riff into the production and plugged by Olaitan. The visuals for “What If I Say” were directed by TG Omori. On 1 August 2019, Fireboy DML released another single titled “King”, where he declares his worth to his love interest. The accompanying music video for “King” was directed by TG Omori; it contains images of Fireboy and his love interest in a rose petal embellished Rolls-Royce, as well as images of him singing at a fashion show where models walk on a runway.
Fireboy released his debut studio album, Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps, on 29 November 2019. It was initially scheduled for release on 25 November. The album’s music is a brand of R&B that combines love and social issues with empirical songwriting. LTG comprises 13 tracks and doesn’t feature any guest artists; it amassed over 6 million streams on Spotify three days after its release. It received generally positive reviews from music critics but was criticized for being labelled an “Afro-Life” record instead of an R&B album. LTG was supported by the previously released singles “Jealous”, “What If I Say”, and “King”. The single “Vibration” was a fan favourite. In 2020, Fireboy DML gained media coverage in Nigeria when his hit single “Champion”.
NotjustOk regarded him that, at the base of his writing, is a deep-seated knack for introspection, the desire to be himself and a whole others like himself, spinning personal and borrowed accounts of existential crisis, ambition, love, lust and depression.”
Balogun Olamilekan, widely known as his stage name Balloranking, was born on November 20, 2000, amidst the vibrant streets of Surulere in Lagos State, Nigeria. He began his artistic journey at age 7. His passion for music was kindled during his stint as a graphics designer. It was within the walls of his workplace that the symphony of musical instruments played by his boss struck a chord within him, igniting an unquenchable yearning to craft remarkable melodies.
Growing up in the neighborhood of Surulere, Balloranking’s aspirations stretched far beyond the boundaries of a typical street artist. His sonic identity marries the soulful echoes of Afro rhythms with a contemporary resonance, birthing an unparalleled auditory experience. Since signing to the label, his artistry has manifested in countless streams and downloads across digital platforms, a testament to the ever-expanding circle of devoted admirers he has garnered.
Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman was born on 22 April 1997 in Surulere in Lagos state,pseudomly known as Oxlade. After the passing of his mother when he was 3 years old, he was raised by his father and grandmother. His father was a lecturer at the University of Lagos, where he gained admission to study History and International Relations.
He enrolled for two years before dropping off to pursue his musical career. In 2018, he was approached by A&R executive Bizzle Osikoya, right after the release of “Mamiwota” by Blaqbonez, off the Bad Boy Blaq EP, released through 100 Crowns, an imprint of Chocolate City. After he met with Brizzle, he signed a management deal with The Plug. Thereafter he signed a publishing, licensing and distribution deal with The Plug Entertainment and a record deal with Troniq Music in 2018, Davido allowed Oxlade to perform at the City of David concert in Lagos and he opened for Wizkid in London at Star Boy Fest in 2019.
Also in 2020, he released the music video for Away, directed by TG Omori for Troniq Music. Thereafter, he tells Tami Makinde of The Native he was instructed by Omori to sit on his lady’s lap to personify the popular saying “Behind every successful man is a woman”. On 7 November 2020, Drake posted a screenshot on his Instagram story, listening to Away. Right after the Canadian rapper made the post, he gained 3 million streams within 24 hours. He achieved mainstream recognition with his hit track “Away”, released as a single from his EP Oxygene, released through Troniq Music, and The Plug Entertainment, on 27 March 2020. “Away” appeared at number 23 on the Nigerian Turntable Top 50 year-end chart of 2020.
Abiola Ahmed Akinbi whose stage name is Bella Shmurda is a Nigeria singer and song writer, was born in january 27, 1996, .hails from a polygamous home in Ikorodu and is the last child from a family of 10 children. His journey in arts began in his early days through being a part of his elementary school band and cultural dance troupe. He had his early days in Ikorodu,proceeded to have his secondary school studies in Badagry , and rosed to bag a bachelor’s degree in History and International Relations from the University of Lagos. He became prominent in 2019 with the release of the song “Vision 2020”, and a follow-up remix which featured Olamide. Which the song highlighted the flame of his famousity. Thereafter, Poco Lee, who is a dancer and close friend to Bella Shmurda made a video with the song which made it viral and earned the interest of Olamide who invited the latter over to his studio for a remix. The support Bella Shmurda got encouraged him to release his first EP “High Tension” in January 2020. He released several other songs in 2020 that emphasized his art work, one of which he featured rapper Zlatan in “Cash App”. In 2020, The Headies him for for the Next rated Artist of the year. . He won the awards “Next Rated Male” and “Street Music of the Year” at the “City People Entertainment Awards”, and was also nominated for the “Revelation of the Year” Award Category in 2020.Rising stars of Afrobeats: How Afrobeats Next Generation is shaping the future of Music
Nigeria Afrobeats has gained a slow but widest popularity, which has come to dominate Spotify and YouTube playlists. Yet this genre is now influencing artists in foreign countries to track its origin back to Nigeria. Early development was credited to artists such as Fela Kuti between the 1960s and 1970s. He blended traditional Yoruba music with Western jazz and funk to create a unique and rich tempo. After him, the likes of 2Baba, 9ice, D’banj, and P-Square were among the pioneers of this newly-created genre, and their success paved the way for the next generation of artists, who would take Afrobeats to meet a high standard. In the mid -2010, the limelight for Afrobeats began in the mid-2010s when artists such as Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy started to gain stardom leading to international recognition and collaboration with global fast-rising stars, earning spots on major international music charts. D’banj enjoyed global success with his 2012 hit Oliver Twist, which made the top 10 on the official UK Singles Chart and was number two in the UK R&B Charts, and it has been described by Premium Times Nigeria as the first time Afrobeats took hold in the UK. Wizkid’s collaboration with Canadian rapper, Drake on “One Dance” in 2016 was another monumental moment that propelled Afrobeats into the global mainstream. And this rise of streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube played a pivotal role in this breakthrough, making it easier for fans, and lovers across the globe to discover shaping and enjoy Afrobeats.
As a genre, Afrobeats has put West Africa firmly on the map, opening the eyes of African artists to many opportunities like streaming, international tours brand endorsements, and global awards. Its global rise has introduced the world to the rich tapestry of West African music, dancing style and slang. As a genre, it’s not only a medium of entertaining but also educating global audiences, while becoming firmly entrenched in the heart of pop culture. And its popularity shows no signs of bowing down in any due time. Social media also contributed to the genre’s rise, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok helping viral songs reach audiences far beyond the African continent, with songs by Davido and Wizkid gaining popularity through their TikTok dance routines. The Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US recently added an Afrobeats category, with Burna Boy and fellow Nigerian star Rema awarded as the best-performing Afrobeats artists . Burna Boy, who was also the winner of the inaugural Afrobeats Grammy award in the UK, dedicated his award “to Africa and every artist coming out of Africa now.” Rema won an award for his song “Calm Down”, which has landed multiple streaming and chart records. The influence of Afrobeats can be seen across various music genres, as artists from different backgrounds incorporate its unique rhythms and sound into their work.
In each decade, new stars are being produced while old stars take a bow. The likes of Vector, MI,9ice, Don-Jazzy, and Banky W, have not been releasing albums as before, giving the bait to the upcoming artists to showcase their talent.
Some underground artists have been exceptionally making impacts behind the show but yet to have a headway to come to the limelight. The majority of these underground artists are brilliant – performing artists whose style of singing has been topnotch in the music industry for over a decade, yet they have broken even. In the multitude of them, some of them are exceptional. Take the likes of Nito-P, Otega, Rema, Fireboy, Balloranking, Oxlade and Bella Shmurda.
Paul Otasowie Ajayi, known by his stage name Nito- p was bred in Benin City, Edo State. His journey began in 2012, inspired by legendary Nigerian rapper, Dagrin. His passion for music took root during his university years where he was encouraged and supported by friends who believed in his talent. Their belief in him gave him the confidence to pay rapt attention to music.
Nito-P’s sound blends Afro Hip-Hop and Afrobeats, resonating with his cultural heritage. He describes his sound as a rapper with undiluted flows,”. “It’s raw, real, and it comes straight from his heart. His lyrics are untamed truth resonating with people.”
Over the years, Nito-P has released several notable singles like “Ghetto Life” and “Odogwu.” Each release showcases his versatility and growth as an artist. “Most wanted became a turning point for him. His first project gave him the chance to express himself. Two of his songs, “Ghetto Life” and ‘Odogwu are personal favorites because they tell stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph. They speak about his life journey and the journey of so many others,”
As he prepares for the release of his debut album, fans can expect a project that not only highlights Nito-P’s lyrical prowess but also his dedication to uplifting the next generation of musicians.
Ifedayo Oghenetega Stephen, better known by the stage name Otega or Otega Bilz is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. He was born on 16th October 1994 in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State in Nigeria. He hails from Nigeria’s Edo State, where he was raised. He attended the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, where he got his OND in Computer Science He is known for his soulful voice and catchy melodies. His songs often deal with themes of love, relationships, and everyday life. Ortega began his career in 2010 by posting freestyles online. He came to popularity, though, when he collaborated with indigenous rapper CDQ on his track “Stay Woke.” His collaboration with Diamond Jimma on the song “Aje” established his position in the business by showcasing his immaculate lyricism and flexibility. His dedication won him a recording contract with the ‘Advert Gang Record Label.’ Otega is a classic performer who exudes energetic vibes. He has a slew of hit singles under his belt, including “Save Me,” “Na My Life,” “Caribbean Way,” “I Dey Feel You,” “Case May Be,” “Light Up,” and “Nobody.” He has also collaborated with Jaguar Paw, MrGbafun, Ayanfe Viral, King Ferrari, and Samstar. On October 22, 2019, he released his debut studio album, titled ‘Death Before Dishonor. So far, he has four albums to his credit: ‘’Death Before Dishonor’’, “Price Paid,” “Outta My Sight,” and “Really Hard,” which was published on October 16, 2020. Otega has been nominated for several awards, including the Nigerian Music Awards and the Lagos Music Festival Awards. He won the award for Best New Artist at the Nigerian Music Awards in 2020. Otega has been nominated for several awards, including the Nigerian Music Awards and the Lagos Music Festival Awards. He won the award for Best New Artist at the Nigerian Music Awards in 2020.
Divine Ikubor, mononymously known as Rema,was born on May 1, 2000. He is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and rapper. Birthed into a Christian family in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He discovered his passion for music during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State, where he began singing and rapping. After losing his father and elder brother, Rema was raised by his mother, who played a significant role in shaping his life. He gained initial recognition with his 2019 song “Dumebi”. That same year, he signed with D’Prince’s record label, Jonzing World.Rema (born Divine Ikubor on May 1, 2000) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who rose to prominence in 2019. He gained widespread attention with his debut single “Iron Man,” which was included in former U.S. President Barack Obama’s summer playlist. Rema is signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, founded by renowned Nigerian producer Don Jazzy.
Rema’s music blends Afrobeats, trap, and pop, creating a unique sound often referred to as “Afro-rave.” His breakout hit “Dumebi” further cemented his place in the global music scene, earning him recognition across Africa and beyond. In 2020, Rema released the single “Beamer (Bad Boys),” further expanding his reach into international markets.
Fireboy DML was born and raised in Abeokuta, Ogun state, and was a member of his church choir. He developed an interest in music while studying at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English. He moved to Lagos to pursue music as a full-time career. His breakthrough single “Jealous” first appeared on YBNL Nation’s collaborative album, YBNL Mafia Family (2018), before being re-released on 25 March 2019. The song is composed of guitar riffs, traditional drums and percussion; it combines African harmonies with elements of country and soul music. “Jealous” was produced by Cracker Mallo and is centred around love and the complicated feelings that go along with it. The visuals for “Jealous” were directed by Director K.
In June 2019, Fireboy DML released the ballad single “What If I Say”. It was produced by Pheelz, who incorporated a mix of percussion, ambient synth harmonies, and a drum riff into the production and plugged by Olaitan. The visuals for “What If I Say” were directed by TG Omori. On 1 August 2019, Fireboy DML released another single titled “King”, where he declares his worth to his love interest. The accompanying music video for “King” was directed by TG Omori; it contains images of Fireboy and his love interest in a rose petal embellished Rolls-Royce, as well as images of him singing at a fashion show where models walk on a runway.
Fireboy released his debut studio album, Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps, on 29 November 2019. It was initially scheduled for release on 25 November. The album’s music is a brand of R&B that combines love and social issues with empirical songwriting. LTG comprises 13 tracks and doesn’t feature any guest artists; it amassed over 6 million streams on Spotify three days after its release. It received generally positive reviews from music critics but was criticized for being labelled an “Afro-Life” record instead of an R&B album. LTG was supported by the previously released singles “Jealous”, “What If I Say”, and “King”. The single “Vibration” was a fan favourite. In 2020, Fireboy DML gained media coverage in Nigeria when his hit single “Champion”.
NotjustOk regarded him that, at the base of his writing, is a deep-seated knack for introspection, the desire to be himself and a whole others like himself, spinning personal and borrowed accounts of existential crisis, ambition, love, lust and depression.”
Balogun Olamilekan, widely known as his stage name Balloranking, was born on November 20, 2000, amidst the vibrant streets of Surulere in Lagos State, Nigeria. He began his artistic journey at age 7. His passion for music was kindled during his stint as a graphics designer. It was within the walls of his workplace that the symphony of musical instruments played by his boss struck a chord within him, igniting an unquenchable yearning to craft remarkable melodies.
Growing up in the neighborhood of Surulere, Balloranking’s aspirations stretched far beyond the boundaries of a typical street artist. His sonic identity marries the soulful echoes of Afro rhythms with a contemporary resonance, birthing an unparalleled auditory experience. Since signing to the label, his artistry has manifested in countless streams and downloads across digital platforms, a testament to the ever-expanding circle of devoted admirers he has garnered.
Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman was born on 22 April 1997 in Surulere in Lagos state,pseudomly known as Oxlade. After the passing of his mother when he was 3 years old, he was raised by his father and grandmother. His father was a lecturer at the University of Lagos, where he gained admission to study History and International Relations.
He enrolled for two years before dropping off to pursue his musical career. In 2018, he was approached by A&R executive Bizzle Osikoya, right after the release of “Mamiwota” by Blaqbonez, off the Bad Boy Blaq EP, released through 100 Crowns, an imprint of Chocolate City. After he met with Brizzle, he signed a management deal with The Plug. Thereafter he signed a publishing, licensing and distribution deal with The Plug Entertainment and a record deal with Troniq Music in 2018, Davido allowed Oxlade to perform at the City of David concert in Lagos and he opened for Wizkid in London at Star Boy Fest in 2019.
Also in 2020, he released the music video for Away, directed by TG Omori for Troniq Music. Thereafter, he tells Tami Makinde of The Native he was instructed by Omori to sit on his lady’s lap to personify the popular saying “Behind every successful man is a woman”. On 7 November 2020, Drake posted a screenshot on his Instagram story, listening to Away. Right after the Canadian rapper made the post, he gained 3 million streams within 24 hours. He achieved mainstream recognition with his hit track “Away”, released as a single from his EP Oxygene, released through Troniq Music, and The Plug Entertainment, on 27 March 2020. “Away” appeared at number 23 on the Nigerian Turntable Top 50 year-end chart of 2020.
Abiola Ahmed Akinbi whose stage name is Bella Shmurda is a Nigeria singer and song writer, was born in january 27, 1996, .hails from a polygamous home in Ikorodu and is the last child from a family of 10 children. His journey in arts began in his early days through being a part of his elementary school band and cultural dance troupe. He had his early days in Ikorodu,proceeded to have his secondary school studies in Badagry , and rosed to bag a bachelor’s degree in History and International Relations from the University of Lagos. He became prominent in 2019 with the release of the song “Vision 2020”, and a follow-up remix which featured Olamide. Which the song highlighted the flame of his famousity. Thereafter, Poco Lee, who is a dancer and close friend to Bella Shmurda made a video with the song which made it viral and earned the interest of Olamide who invited the latter over to his studio for a remix. The support Bella Shmurda got encouraged him to release his first EP “High Tension” in January 2020. He released several other songs in 2020 that emphasized his art work, one of which he featured rapper Zlatan in “Cash App”. In 2020, The Headies him for for the Next rated Artist of the year. . He won the awards “Next Rated Male” and “Street Music of the Year” at the “City People Entertainment Awards”, and was also nominated for the “Revelation of the Year” Award Category in 2020.