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Muna Tengi
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Top 10 Musicians From Nasarawa State
Nasarawa State, located in the North Central region of Nigeria, is known for its rich cultural diversity, which stems from the ethnic multiplicity of the people. With tribes like the Eggon, Mada, Alago, and Gwari, among others, the state’s traditional and contemporary musical heritage is as varied as its people. Although Nasarawa is not often placed in the spotlight of Nigeria's music scene, the state has produced several talented musicians who have contributed to the richness of both local and national music.
In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 musicians from Nasarawa State, focusing on their biographies, careers, and contributions to the music industry. These musicians, all of whom are indigenes of Nasarawa, represent a variety of musical genres ranging from Afrobeat and gospel to traditional folk music.
1. Zaaki Azzay
Zaaki Azzay, a household name in Nigerian music, hails from Nasarawa State. He is one of the pioneers of hip hop in Nigeria, known for his signature torchlight performances that became his trademark in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Zaaki blends Afrobeat, traditional rhythms, and contemporary hip hop in a way that resonated with audiences across Nigeria.
His hit songs like "Na Me Go Marry Am" and "Catch Fire" brought him national recognition, making him one of the most successful musicians from Nasarawa. He is also a strong advocate against domestic violence, using his platform to create awareness and support victims of abuse.
2. Morell
Morell, born Musa Akilah, is a talented Afrobeat and hip-hop artist who also traces his roots back to Nasarawa State. Known for his unique blend of Hausa and English in his lyrics, Morell has made a name for himself in the northern Nigerian music industry. His music cuts across multiple genres, including Afrobeat, hip hop, and R&B, and he is celebrated for his versatility.
Morell's hit song "Antisocial" introduced him to a broader audience, and since then, he has consistently delivered tracks that resonate with both Hausa and non-Hausa-speaking fans. His ability to infuse northern Nigerian cultural elements into mainstream music has earned him a loyal fan base.
3. Jesse Jagz
While many associate Jesse Jagz with Plateau State due to his time spent in Jos, the talented rapper, producer, and singer also has strong ties to Nasarawa State. Jesse Jagz, whose real name is Jesse Garba Abaga, is renowned for his lyrical prowess and production skills. He first gained prominence with the release of his debut album Jag of All Trades in 2010, which showcased his ability to merge different musical styles, including reggae, Afrobeat, and hip hop.
As a member of the famous Abaga musical family, which includes M.I Abaga, Jesse has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene. His unique sound and introspective lyrics set him apart from other artists in the industry.
4. Yunusa Rufai
Yunusa Rufai, also known as The Voice of Nasarawa, is a prominent figure in the state's traditional music scene. He specializes in the folk music of the Eggon people, a major ethnic group in Nasarawa State. His music, which often incorporates the use of traditional instruments like the kakaki and gangan, tells stories of the people, their struggles, and their celebrations.
Rufai has performed at numerous cultural festivals both within and outside the state, and his work is often considered a preservation of Nasarawa’s traditional music heritage.
5. Nimix
Nimix, whose real name is Oluwaseun Oluwatosin, is a gospel artist from Nasarawa State with a growing reputation in the Nigerian gospel music scene. Known for his powerful vocals and spiritually uplifting songs, Nimix has released several hit gospel tracks that have garnered him a strong following among Christians both in Nasarawa and nationwide.
Some of his popular tracks include "Alaye" and "Oga Ju." His music blends traditional gospel elements with modern Afrobeat and pop sounds, making his work relatable to a wide audience. Nimix is also a producer, further extending his influence in the Nigerian gospel music industry.
6. Jah Device
Jah Device is another notable artist from Nasarawa State, particularly in the reggae and dancehall genre. Known for his socially conscious lyrics, Jah Device addresses issues of injustice, inequality, and love in his music. His smooth delivery and rhythmic beats have earned him recognition in the reggae scene not only in Nigeria but across Africa.
His performances are often marked by powerful messages of unity and peace, and his contributions to the reggae genre have helped put Nasarawa State on the map as a home to talented musicians.
7. Solomon Lange
Solomon Lange is a Nasarawa-born gospel artist with an international following. He started his music career in Kaduna but has since become a national figure in the gospel music industry. Lange’s songs are known for their deep spiritual content, and he often sings in both English and Hausa, making his music accessible to a broad audience.
His hit song "Yabo" is a favorite in many Christian circles, and he has performed on international stages, further solidifying his place as one of Nasarawa's top musical exports. Lange is also involved in philanthropic activities, using his platform to give back to the community.
8. Funky Fresh
Funky Fresh, born Ahmed Abubakar, is a rising star in Nasarawa’s hip-hop scene. His music is characterized by its fusion of contemporary hip-hop beats with local Hausa influences. He often raps in Hausa, which has helped him connect with the northern Nigerian youth.
Funky Fresh has released several singles and continues to gain recognition for his energetic performances and relatable lyrics. As a young artist, he represents the future of Nasarawa’s music industry, and his innovative style sets him apart from his peers.
9. Shambee Puzzle
Shambee Puzzle is an Afrobeat artist from Nasarawa State who is making waves with his unique sound and captivating performances. His music is a blend of traditional Nigerian rhythms and modern Afrobeat, making it appealing to both young and older audiences. Shambee Puzzle has released several hit tracks and continues to gain traction in the Nigerian music industry.
His ability to infuse cultural elements into mainstream Afrobeat sets him apart, and he is quickly becoming one of the most recognized musicians from Nasarawa State.
10. Queen Juliet
Queen Juliet is a fast-rising gospel singer from Nasarawa State. Her soulful voice and passion for worship have earned her a spot among the top gospel musicians in the region. Queen Juliet’s music is marked by its powerful spiritual message, and she has released several singles that have resonated with gospel music lovers in Nasarawa and beyond.
Her commitment to spreading the gospel through music has made her a beloved figure in Christian circles, and her influence continues to grow as she releases more spiritually uplifting songs.
Conclusion
Nasarawa State may not always be the first name that comes to mind when people think about Nigerian music, but the state boasts a wealth of talent across various genres. From traditional folk singers like Yunusa Rufai to contemporary Afrobeat stars like Zaaki Azzay and gospel artists like Solomon Lange, Nasarawa's musicians have made significant contributions to the music industry, both in Nigeria and internationally. These artists not only entertain but also preserve the cultural heritage of Nasarawa through their music, making them true ambassadors of the state's rich and diverse cultural landscape.
