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Magnusbau George
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The Best Nigerian Movie Soundtracks You Need To Hear
Nigerian cinema, often referred to as Nollywood, has become one of the largest film industries in the world, producing hundreds of films each year. While these films are known for their rich storytelling, exceptional acting, and compelling narratives, one often overlooked yet significant aspect of Nollywood films is their music. The soundtrack plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional depth and atmosphere of a film, evoking feelings of nostalgia, excitement, and heartbreak. Nigerian film soundtracks often blend indigenous African rhythms with contemporary genres like Afrobeat, highlife, and even Western pop and hip-hop, creating a unique sound that resonates with both local and global audiences.
In this post, we explore some of the best Nigerian movie soundtracks that you need to hear. These soundtracks have become iconic in their own right, setting the mood for unforgettable scenes and adding layers of emotion to the films they accompany.
1. "The Wedding Party" (2016)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Yawa" by Seyi Shay, "Iskaba" by Wande Coal, "Body Talk" by Koker, and "Omoge You Too Much" by Kiss Daniel.
"The Wedding Party," directed by Kemi Adetiba, is one of the most commercially successful Nollywood films, and its soundtrack reflects the vibrant, celebratory energy of the wedding-themed film. Set around a high-profile Nigerian wedding, the movie brings together a cast of dynamic characters, all while showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Nigeria.
The soundtrack for "The Wedding Party" is an eclectic mix of modern Nigerian pop, Afrobeats, and highlife music, perfect for the movie's fast-paced scenes and emotional moments. Songs like "Yawa" by Seyi Shay and "Iskaba" by Wande Coal captured the attention of music lovers both in Nigeria and abroad, becoming hits long after the movie’s release. These tracks, along with others, created an infectious vibe that complemented the film’s celebration of love, family, and culture.
The success of "The Wedding Party" both at the box office and in terms of its soundtrack has helped solidify the role of music in Nollywood, showing that a great soundtrack can elevate the viewing experience and make a film more memorable.
2. "Lionheart" (2018)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Suffer Head" by Fela Kuti, "Lemonade" by Burna Boy, and "African Queen" by 2Baba.
"Lionheart," directed by Genevieve Nnaji, made history as Nigeria’s first film to be acquired by Netflix. It tells the story of a woman who takes over the management of her father’s transportation company and must navigate the complexities of running a business in a male-dominated world. The film has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of strong women, family dynamics, and corporate life in Nigeria.
The soundtrack of "Lionheart" incorporates a rich blend of classic Afrobeat, highlife, and modern Nigerian sounds, featuring legendary musicians like Fela Kuti. "Suffer Head" by Fela Kuti plays a key role in the movie’s opening, setting a tone of struggle and resilience. Additionally, songs like Burna Boy’s "Lemonade" and 2Baba’s "African Queen" help tie the film’s themes of perseverance, triumph, and Nigerian pride to the traditional and contemporary sounds of the country.
The soundtrack helps transport viewers into the world of "Lionheart," making it one of the most memorable Nollywood films in recent years. Its music brings together various facets of Nigerian culture, paying homage to the past while embracing the future.
3. "The Figurine" (2009)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Farabale" by 9ice, "Igboro Ti Daru" by 9ice, and "Lagos Hustler" by Sound Sultan.
"The Figurine," directed by Kunle Afolayan, is a supernatural thriller that weaves together elements of folklore, mystery, and suspense. The film explores the lives of two friends who stumble upon a mysterious artifact that seems to grant them good fortune but at a cost. The soundtrack of this movie plays a pivotal role in enhancing its mystical and tense atmosphere.
9ice’s "Farabale" and "Igboro Ti Daru," alongside Sound Sultan’s "Lagos Hustler," perfectly complement the film’s dark, dramatic narrative, adding layers of intrigue and excitement to the plot. The music’s blend of indigenous Yoruba rhythms, contemporary Afrobeat, and urban Nigerian sounds create a uniquely captivating soundtrack that heightens the suspense and emotional intensity of the film.
The use of music in "The Figurine" was a major part of what made the movie stand out, and it helped elevate the film's cultural depth, merging African traditional sounds with modern-day Nigerian music.
4. "Fifty" (2015)
Soundtrack Highlights: "You Will Be Found" by Kemi "Kems" Olusanya, "Afe Fe" by Seyi Shay, "Fifty" by Waje.
"Fifty," directed by Biyi Bandele, tells the story of four Nigerian women in their 50s who navigate the complexities of life, love, and career. The film, which explores the experiences and challenges faced by older women in modern-day Lagos, is both empowering and entertaining.
The soundtrack of "Fifty" is a collection of soulful and emotive songs, with tracks that highlight themes of friendship, love, and empowerment. "You Will Be Found" by Kemi Olusanya is an uplifting song that mirrors the film’s message of resilience and the strength of women, while Seyi Shay’s "Afe Fe" and Waje’s "Fifty" add to the emotional depth of the film.
The movie’s soundtrack is both a reflection of the characters' journeys and a tribute to the strong, independent women who defy societal expectations and live life on their own terms. The carefully chosen tracks help to create an atmosphere of intimacy and celebration, making "Fifty" one of the standout films in Nigerian cinema.
5. "October 1" (2014)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Oruko Tuntun" by Simi, "Ayo" by Adekunle Gold, and "The One" by Cobhams Asuquo.
"October 1," directed by Kunle Afolayan, is a historical thriller that takes place during Nigeria’s transition to independence in 1960. The film blends crime, history, and suspense, as a police officer is tasked with solving a series of murders in a small town in Nigeria just before the country’s independence. The soundtrack for "October 1" masterfully complements the film's period setting and its suspenseful atmosphere.
Simi’s "Oruko Tuntun" and Adekunle Gold’s "Ayo" provide an uplifting yet nostalgic feel to the film, while Cobhams Asuquo’s "The One" carries a soulful undertone that enhances the film’s emotional impact. The soundtrack perfectly marries the historical context with modern Nigerian sounds, making "October 1" not only a critical success but also a musical masterpiece.
The film's score, composed by David Taiwo, also features elements of traditional Yoruba music, helping to create a truly immersive experience. The music of "October 1" plays an integral role in bringing the story of pre-independence Nigeria to life and deepening the emotional connection with the audience.
6. "Shanty Town" (2022)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Shanty Town" by Phyno, "Bad Energy" by Zlatan, and "Chukwudi" by Flavour N’abania.
"Shanty Town," a Netflix original series directed by Dimeji Ajibola, follows the lives of criminals in the underworld of Lagos. The show delves into themes of corruption, crime, betrayal, and redemption, with a cast of complex, morally ambiguous characters.
The soundtrack of "Shanty Town" is a fusion of contemporary Afrobeat, hip-hop, and indigenous Nigerian sounds. The powerful track "Shanty Town" by Phyno and the energetic "Bad Energy" by Zlatan encapsulate the gritty atmosphere of the film. Flavour’s "Chukwudi" brings an element of traditional African vibes, offering a contrast to the fast-paced action and modern struggles depicted in the series.
The soundtrack serves as a reminder of the hustle and hard-knock life many face in Lagos, and the music’s varied genre approach helps reflect the complexity of the characters’ lives. The choice of songs for "Shanty Town" adds a sense of urgency and drama, making the soundtrack a key element in the show’s success.
7. "Last Flight to Abuja" (2012)
Soundtrack Highlights: "Ife" by Banky W, "Strong Girl" by Omawumi.
"Last Flight to Abuja," directed by Obi Emelonye, is a disaster film based on a real-life plane crash that occurred in Nigeria. The film captures the lives of passengers on the ill-fated flight, delving into the human emotions of fear, hope, and survival.
The soundtrack of this film plays an important role in setting the emotional tone of the narrative. Songs like "Ife" by Banky W and "Strong Girl" by Omawumi bring an emotional weight to the film, highlighting the resilience and strength of the passengers. The soundtrack also incorporates themes of love, strength, and loss, which resonate deeply with viewers.
The careful selection of music in "Last Flight to Abuja" not only complements the film’s suspense and drama but also underscores the tragedy and heroism involved. It’s a poignant soundtrack that enhances the emotional depth of the movie, making it one of the most memorable Nollywood films with a strong musical identity.
Conclusion
Nigerian movie soundtracks are much more than background music—they are integral to the storytelling, emotion, and cultural richness that Nollywood films offer. From the joyous celebrations in "The Wedding Party" to the haunting mystery in "The Figurine," the music of these films not only enhances the visuals but also creates an immersive experience for the audience. These soundtracks are an essential part of the Nollywood filmmaking process and continue to shape how the world perceives Nigerian cinema. Whether you're a fan of Afrobeats, highlife, or soul, these Nigerian movie soundtracks are a must-listen foranyone looking to explore the diverse and vibrant world of Nollywood music.
