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Destiny .M. George
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Top 7 Best Nigerian Musicians To Follow In 2024
Nigeria has always been a powerhouse in the music industry, both locally and internationally. With the rise of Afrobeat, a fusion of traditional African rhythms and Western influences, Nigerian music has garnered worldwide attention. The country's vibrant music scene continues to grow, with an increasing number of artists gaining recognition globally. If you're a music lover or looking to discover fresh talent, here are seven of the best Nigerian musicians to follow in 2024.
1. Burna Boy
Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is undoubtedly one of the biggest names in Nigerian music right now. Known for his unique fusion of Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop, Burna Boy has been instrumental in bringing African music to the global stage. His 2019 album, African Giant, earned him international recognition, and his Grammy win in 2021 for Twice as Tall solidified his place as one of the best in the industry.
Burna Boy’s music is a reflection of his cultural pride, often addressing African heritage, identity, and social issues. His energetic performances, captivating lyrics, and collaborations with top international artists make him a must-follow. In 2024, Burna Boy continues to be a dominant force in music, with his shows selling out around the world and his new releases continuing to top the charts.
2. Wizkid
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, better known as Wizkid, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and one of the most successful African artists of all time. With his smooth voice and distinct sound, Wizkid has become a household name not only in Nigeria but also internationally. His breakthrough came in 2010 with the release of Holla at Your Boy, and since then, his career has skyrocketed.
Wizkid’s 2020 album Made in Lagos was met with critical acclaim and solidified his position as a global superstar. Songs like "Essence" (featuring Tems) became anthems and helped him gain recognition in the United States, where he collaborated with artists such as Drake, Beyoncé, and Future. His ability to blend Afrobeat, reggae, and R&B influences keeps his sound fresh and relevant. In 2024, Wizkid’s music continues to dominate airwaves, and his tour schedule remains packed.
3. Rema
Born in 2000, Divine Ikubor, known by his stage name Rema, is one of the youngest and most exciting talents in Nigerian music today. His rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric, with his breakout single “Dumebi” becoming a massive hit in 2019. Rema's versatility allows him to blend Afrobeat with trap, pop, and even elements of Indian music, which sets him apart from other artists.
Rema’s debut album Rave & Roses (2022) was a chart-topping success, and his international collaborations have further increased his global appeal. Tracks like "Calm Down" and "Dirty" continue to showcase his unique sound, making him an artist to watch. As he continues to expand his influence, Rema’s creativity and ability to captivate audiences make him one of the best Nigerian musicians to follow in 2024.
4. Tems
Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene and beyond. Known for her soulful voice and emotive delivery, she has become one of the most sought-after artists in Africa. Tems' rise to fame began with the release of her hit song "Mr. Rebel" in 2018, but it was her collaboration with Wizkid on the global smash "Essence" that propelled her to international stardom.
Tems has since worked with several global artists, including Future and Drake, and her debut EP For Broken Ears received critical acclaim. Her music is a beautiful blend of Afrobeat, soul, and R&B, and her powerful vocals continue to mesmerize fans worldwide. With her undeniable talent, Tems is poised to be a major force in the music industry in 2024 and beyond, and she is a must-follow artist for anyone interested in contemporary Nigerian music.
5. Olamide
Olamide Adedeji Adedeji Badmus, popularly known as Olamide, is a prolific Nigerian rapper, singer, and record executive. He is one of the pioneers of the indigenous Yoruba rap genre, and his influence on the Nigerian music scene is immeasurable. Olamide first gained attention with his debut album Rapsodi in 2011 and has since released numerous albums that have cemented his place as one of Nigeria’s top musicians.
Not only is Olamide known for his musical versatility, ranging from rap to Afrobeat, but he is also an influential figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry as the CEO of YBNL Nation. Olamide's ability to blend street vibes with mainstream appeal has made him a fan favorite. In 2024, his influence remains strong, with his music continuing to dominate local charts and his collaborations with up-and-coming artists helping to shape the future of Nigerian music.
6. Davido
David Adedeji Adeleke, known professionally as Davido, is one of the most prominent Nigerian artists globally. His career began in 2011 with the release of his debut album Omo Baba Olowo, and since then, he has continued to rise to superstardom. Known for his energetic performances and hit songs, Davido has become a staple in the Afrobeats scene.
With chart-topping singles like "Fall," "If," and "FEM," Davido has garnered a massive fanbase both in Africa and around the world. His collaborations with international artists like Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Baby have solidified his position as a global star. Davido's ability to create catchy tunes with a mix of Afrobeat, hip-hop, and pop influences makes him a versatile artist to follow. His 2024 releases are highly anticipated, and fans are excited to see what he has in store.
7. Joeboy
Joseph Akinwale Akinfenwa-Donus, popularly known as Joeboy, is one of the top new-age Nigerian musicians who has quickly made a name for himself in the music industry. With his blend of Afrobeat, pop, and dancehall, Joeboy’s unique sound has earned him fans across Africa and beyond. He came into the limelight with his 2019 hit single "Baby," which was a chart-topping success.
Joeboy's debut album Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic (2021) was a huge success, showcasing his ability to create songs that resonate with a wide range of audiences. With tracks like "Alcohol" becoming viral hits, Joeboy's smooth vocals and catchy melodies make him an artist worth following in 2024. His growth and potential to become one of Africa’s top acts in the coming years is something that music lovers should watch closely.
Conclusion
The Nigerian music scene is one of the most dynamic in the world, and these seven artists are leading the charge in 2024. From legends like Burna Boy and Wizkid to rising stars like Rema and Joeboy, Nigerian musicians continue to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you’re into Afrobeat, reggae, pop, or R&B, there’s something for everyone in the Nigerian music scene. Following these artists will not only keep you updated on the latest trends in music but will also introduce you to the rich and diverse cultural influences that define Nigerian music.
