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Muna Tengi
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Top 10 Musicians From Plateau State
Plateau State, known as the "Home of Peace and Tourism," is one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich regions, boasting an array of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. Located in the central part of Nigeria, the state's capital, Jos, has long been regarded as a cultural and creative hub. Jos has birthed some of Nigeria's most iconic figures in music, film, and art, and its influence on the country's music industry is undeniable.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 musicians from Plateau State, focusing on those who are indigenes of the state. These artists, hailing from diverse backgrounds within the state, have left lasting impressions on the Nigerian music scene, influencing genres like gospel, Afrobeat, hip-hop, R&B, and more.
1. 2Face Idibia (Innocent Ujah Idibia)
Undoubtedly one of Nigeria’s greatest music icons, 2Face Idibia, now known as 2Baba, was born in Jos and is of Idoma descent from Benue State but spent a significant part of his formative years in Plateau State. His deep connection to the city of Jos makes him one of the key figures associated with Plateau State’s vibrant music culture.
2Baba is celebrated for his role in revolutionizing Nigerian pop music. His breakout single "African Queen," off his debut solo album Face 2 Face (2004), catapulted him to international stardom. Since then, 2Baba has won numerous awards, including the MTV Europe Music Award and the BET Award for Best International Act.
Despite his fame, 2Baba has remained rooted in Plateau State’s music scene, constantly supporting up-and-coming artists from the region. His influence has helped solidify Jos as a creative hub for music in Nigeria.
2. MI Abaga (Jude Abaga)
MI Abaga is another musical heavyweight from Plateau State. Born and raised in Jos, Jude Abaga, popularly known as MI, is regarded as one of the finest rappers to come out of Nigeria. He is of Jukun descent and his roots in Jos have been a significant influence on his music career.
MI gained national attention with his debut album Talk About It in 2008, which contained hits like “Safe” and “Anoti.” Known for his lyrical prowess and socially conscious content, MI has been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian hip-hop scene. His follow-up albums, MI2 and The Chairman, cemented his status as one of Africa’s greatest rappers. MI has also been a mentor to several younger artists, helping to grow the Nigerian music industry.
3. P-Square (Peter and Paul Okoye)
The legendary twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, known globally as P-Square, were born in Jos to parents of Anambra State origin but grew up and honed their musical skills in Plateau State. Their early life in Jos played a significant role in shaping their music careers.
P-Square dominated the African music scene throughout the 2000s and 2010s with chart-topping hits like “Do Me,” “Personally,” “Alingo,” and “No One Like You.” Their energetic performances, combined with their Afrobeat and R&B fusion sound, earned them numerous awards, including multiple MTV Africa Music Awards and Kora Awards.
While P-Square split in 2017 to pursue solo careers as Mr. P and Rudeboy, their legacy as one of Nigeria’s most successful music groups remains unparalleled, and their roots in Jos are an integral part of their identity.
4. Ice Prince (Panshak Zamani)
Ice Prince Zamani, born in Jos to Angas parents from Plateau State, is one of Nigeria’s most successful rap artists. He first gained widespread recognition in 2010 with his smash hit "Oleku," which became one of the most remixed Nigerian songs of all time.
Ice Prince has since released multiple albums, including Everybody Loves Ice Prince and Fire of Zamani, which have earned him numerous awards such as the BET Award for Best International Act (Africa). His music blends hip-hop, Afrobeat, and reggae, appealing to a wide audience both in Nigeria and internationally. Ice Prince continues to be a dominant force in Nigerian hip-hop and is a proud ambassador of Plateau State’s musical heritage.
5. Jesse Jagz (Jesse Garba Abaga)
Jesse Jagz, the younger brother of MI Abaga, is another prominent musician from Plateau State. Like his brother, Jesse was born and raised in Jos, and his music reflects the rich cultural and creative environment of the city.
Jesse Jagz is known for his innovative sound, blending hip-hop, reggae, and Afrobeat to create a unique style that has earned him critical acclaim. His debut album Jag of All Trades featured hit singles like “Wetin Dey” and “Pump It Up.” His follow-up projects, Jagz Nation Vol. 1 and Jagz Nation Vol. 2, further showcased his versatility and solidified his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most innovative music producers and artists.
6. Jeremiah Gyang
Known as the "father of contemporary Nigerian music," Jeremiah Gyang is one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian gospel and fusion music. Born in Jos to Berom parents, Gyang’s early exposure to music through his father, a well-known musician, set him on a path to musical greatness.
Jeremiah Gyang’s unique blend of gospel, folk, and traditional sounds with modern pop music has made him a trailblazer in the Nigerian music industry. His hit song “Na Ba Ka” became an anthem for many, and his ability to sing in multiple languages (including Hausa and English) has earned him fans across Nigeria. Gyang’s deeply spiritual and soulful music continues to inspire and uplift audiences.
7. Bez Idakula
Bez Idakula, born Emmanuel Bezhiwa Idakula, is an alternative soul and jazz musician from Jos. Raised in a family that valued education and music, Bez developed a love for music from an early age. His sound is unique in the Nigerian music scene, blending elements of soul, jazz, rock, and African rhythms.
Bez gained recognition with his debut album Super Sun, which produced hits like "That Stupid Song." His music appeals to a more niche audience, and he has been celebrated for his ability to push the boundaries of what Nigerian music can sound like. Bez continues to be a beacon of creativity in Plateau State’s music scene.
8. Ruby Gyang
Ruby Gyang, also known as the “First Lady of Soul,” is a talented singer from Plateau State. Born in Jos, Ruby is known for her rich, powerful voice and her ability to blend soul, jazz, and Afrobeat seamlessly. Her music often explores themes of love, empowerment, and cultural pride.
Ruby Gyang has collaborated with some of Nigeria’s top artists, including MI Abaga, Jesse Jagz, and Ice Prince, contributing her vocals to numerous hit tracks. Her singles like “Okay” and “Good Man” have earned her critical acclaim, and she remains one of the leading female voices from Plateau State.
9. Efe (Ejeba Michael Efe)
Efe Ejeba, popularly known as Efe, is a rapper and reality TV star from Jos. He gained national fame after winning the 2017 edition of Big Brother Naija, where his talent as a rapper was showcased to a large audience. Since his win, Efe has released several songs, including “Based on Logistics,” “Warri,” and “I Love You.”
Efe’s music often incorporates Pidgin English and Afrobeat, appealing to a broad audience. His connection to Jos and Plateau State remains strong, and he continues to use his platform to promote the region’s talent and culture.
10. Simi Drey (Simi Adejumo)
Simi Drey, although better known as a media personality, is also a talented singer and entertainer who has strong ties to Plateau State. Born in Jos to Yoruba parents, Simi’s upbringing in the culturally rich environment of Jos influenced her creative pursuits.
While her primary focus has been on radio and TV presenting, Simi Drey’s musical talent is evident in her vocal performances, and she continues to explore her passion for music alongside her media career. Her deep connection to Plateau State has made her an important figure in the state’s entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Plateau State’s music scene is a reflection of the state’s rich cultural diversity and history. From global icons like 2Baba and P-Square to groundbreaking rappers like MI and Ice Prince, the state has consistently produced some of Nigeria’s most influential musicians. These artists have not only brought fame to Plateau State but have also shaped the Nigerian music industry as a whole.
Whether through hip-hop, Afrobeat, gospel, or soul, these top 10 musicians from Plateau State have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s music landscape, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations of musicians from the "Home of Peace and Tourism."
