The Nigerian music scene has been buzzing with creativity and energy this year, with numerous artistes making waves and setting new standards.
Asake
Ahmed Ololade, widely known as Asake, has solidified his place as one of the most exciting figures in Nigerian music. His album, “Lungu Boy”, has resonated with fans across genres, showcasing his infectious blend of Afrobeat and contemporary sounds.
Asake’s rise to prominence has been swift, earning him widespread acclaim and numerous accolades. His dedication to pushing boundaries was evident when he clinched the prestigious ‘Best African Act of the Year’ at the 2024 MOBO Awards held in Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Additionally, his nomination for the Best African Music Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards further solidifies his international appeal.
Wizkid
Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has continued to dominate the music scene with an impressive array of hits. His latest album, a heartfelt tribute titled “Morayo”, pays homage to his late mother, showcasing his growth as an artiste.
With songs like ‘Kese’ and ‘Piece of My Heart’, Wizkid has solidified his status as a musical icon. At the 10th Anniversary of the African Entertainment Awards USA 2024, he was celebrated with the ‘Best Male Artist’ award, highlighting his enduring influence in African music.
Davido
David Adeleke, known as Davido, remains a powerhouse in the music industry, consistently delivering captivating hits that resonate globally. His collaborations with international icons like Angelique Kidjo, YG Marley, and Nicki Minaj have expanded his reach beyond African borders.
With a string of chart-topping songs, Davido continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeats. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he joins a select group of Nigerian artistes nominated for the 2025 Grammy Awards, further cementing his position as a global star.
Seyi Vibes
Oluwaloseyi Balogun, better known as Seyi Vibes, has carved a niche with his unique blend of sounds and energetic performances. His singles have captivated audiences, earning him a loyal following.
Vibes’ ability to connect with fans through his engaging stage presence has helped him stand out in a competitive industry. Songs like ‘Doha’, ‘Casablanca’, and ‘Instagram’ have become viral hits, solidifying his place among Nigeria’s emerging talents.
Tems
Temilade Opaniyi, popularly known as Tems has continued to shine as one of Afrobeats’ most distinctive voices. This year, she released her latest album, “Born in the Wild”, blending Afrobeats, RnB, and soul in a way that resonates deeply with fans.
Tracks like ‘Me & U’, ‘Love Me JeJe’, and ‘Burning’ quickly went viral, with ‘Me & U’ earning her the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award, triumphing over industry stalwarts.
Tems leads Nigerian nominees for the 2025 Grammys with three nominations, showcasing her immense talent and global reach.
Burna Boy
Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, continues to cement his status as a musical powerhouse.
Despite releasing only a handful of tracks this year, Burna Boy remains one of the most-streamed Nigerian artists on Spotify, boasting over 6.2 billion streams across Sub-Saharan Africa.
His electrifying performances at major events, including the Grammy Awards, have kept fans eagerly anticipating his next moves. As 2025 approaches, the excitement surrounding his Grammy nominations continues to grow.
Kizz Daniel
Daniel Anidugbe, widely recognized as Kizz Daniel, enjoyed a successful year with chart-topping singles like ‘Double’ and ‘Marhaba’. His relatable lyrics and catchy melodies have kept him relevant in the competitive Afrobeats scene.
Kizz Daniel’s mastery of social media marketing has also played a crucial role in expanding his reach, ensuring his place as a fan-favourite.
Rema
Divine Ikubor, known as Rema, has continued to dominate the Afrobeats scene with his undeniable talent. His second studio album, “Heis”, blends electronic dance music with Afrobeats, setting him apart from his peers.
The album’s standout hit, ‘Calm Down’, earned him numerous awards, including Song of the Year and Top Streaming Song at the 2024 ASCAP London Music Awards.
Ayra Starr
Oyinkansola Aderigbigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has emerged as one of Afrobeats’ brightest stars.
Her captivating stage presence and chart-topping singles like ‘Rhythm & Blues’ and ‘Commas’ have resonated with fans both locally and internationally.
Ayra Starr’s ability to connect deeply with her audience has earned her a growing number of accolades and nominations, establishing her as a force to watch in the coming years.
Young John
John Udomboso, better known as Young John, made significant strides in 2024 with his widely acclaimed album and collaborations with top artistes. His unique sound and ability to push the limits of Afrobeats have firmly established him as one of the standout figures in the genre.
Read Also: Spotify celebrates Nigerian music
