Nigeria's Musicians Who Are Also Actors And Actresses: Top 10 Complete List
Nigeria’s entertainment industry is renowned for producing multifaceted talents who excel in both music and film. Some of these artists are not only celebrated for their musical prowess but also for their acting skills and striking good looks. Here’s a look at some of Nigeria’s most handsome artists who have also made a mark in Nollywood.
1. Banky W
Olubankole Wellington, popularly known as Banky W, is a man of many talents. He first captured the hearts of fans as a smooth R&B singer, known for hits like "Yes/No" and "Strong Ting." Banky W’s polished appearance and charming personality have made him a favorite in the music industry. However, his talents extend beyond music. He has successfully transitioned into acting, starring in the popular Nollywood movie "The Wedding Party" where he played the lead role. His sophisticated style and natural acting talent have solidified his status as a true entertainment icon in Nigeria.
2. Falz
Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, is another artist who has seamlessly merged music and acting. Falz is celebrated for his witty lyrics and comedic music videos, which have earned him a loyal fanbase. Beyond music, Falz has made a significant impact in Nollywood, featuring in movies like "New Money" and "Chief Daddy." His versatility as an actor and his distinctive sense of humor have made him one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry.
3. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage, one of Nigeria's most celebrated Afrobeats singers, has also made her mark in Nollywood. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic performances on stage, Tiwa transitioned to acting with her debut in the movie "Shuga," a popular MTV drama series that tackles issues affecting African youth. Her role as Sade in "Shuga" was widely praised, showcasing her versatility as an artist beyond music. Tiwa's ability to bring authenticity and emotion to her roles has established her as a talented actress, further solidifying her status as a multifaceted star in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
4. Don Jazzy
Don Jazzy, the renowned music producer and Mavin Records boss, has also ventured into Nollywood, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. Although primarily known for his influence in the music industry, Don Jazzy's comedic timing and charisma have earned him roles in Nigerian films. His notable appearance in the movie "The Last 3 Digits" highlighted his ability to transition smoothly from music production to acting. His foray into Nollywood reflects his broad talent and appeal, further establishing him as a multifaceted figure in Nigeria's entertainment industry.
5. Reminisce
Remilekun Safaru, better known as Reminisce, is a prominent Nigerian rapper who made a striking entry into Nollywood with his role as Makanaki in the critically acclaimed movie King of Boys. Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this film allowed Reminisce to display his acting chops, playing a ruthless gangster with a complex character arc. His portrayal was well-received by audiences and critics alike, further solidifying his status as a versatile entertainer in Nigeria.
6. Yemi Alade
Known as the "Queen of Afrobeats," Yemi Alade is another artist who has ventured into acting. She made her Nollywood debut in the film Omo Ghetto: The Saga, where she played the role of Mogambe, the head of a drug-trafficking gang. Yemi Alade's transition to acting was seamless, and her performance added a new dimension to her already illustrious career in music.
7. Davido
David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, is a global Afrobeats superstar who has also dipped his toes into acting. While he is primarily known for his music, with hits like "Fall" and "If," Davido made a cameo appearance in the Nollywood film Fate of Alakada, which parodies the extravagance often displayed on social media. Additionally, he made a brief appearance in the Hollywood movie Coming 2 America, further showcasing his acting potential on an international stage.
8. Phyno
Phyno, another big name in Nigerian music, also made his acting debut in Genevieve Nnaji's directorial debut, Lionheart. In this film, Phyno plays the role of Obiora Obiagu, Genevieve’s on-screen sibling. His role in the movie was well-received, and it marked a significant step in his career as he continues to balance his passion for both music and acting.
9. Simi
Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, known simply as Simi, is not only an acclaimed singer-songwriter but also an actress. She made her acting debut in the 2019 film Mokalik (Mechanic), directed by Kunle Afolayan. Simi's performance in the movie was praised for its authenticity, and she has expressed interest in continuing to explore acting alongside her music career.
10. Waje
Aituaje Iruobe, popularly known as Waje, has also ventured into Nollywood. She starred in the drama series She Must Be Obeyed, where she played the role of Xcite. The series delves into the music industry, touching on themes of bullying, exploitation, and rivalry. Waje’s performance was powerful, further proving that her talent extends beyond just music.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s entertainment industry is blessed with artists who are not only musically talented but also possess the looks and charisma to succeed in acting. These artists, including Banky W, Falz, Reminisce, Simi, Tiwa Savage, Don Jazzy, and Yemi Alade represent the best of both worlds—combining their musical gifts with an undeniable screen presence. As they continue to excel in their respective fields, their contributions to Nollywood are likely to grow, further cementing their status as some of Nigeria’s most handsome and versatile stars