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Muna Tengi
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Top 8 Female Musicians From Delta State, Nigeria
Delta State, located in the South-South region of Nigeria, is a cultural melting pot with a rich history and a thriving music industry. Known for its diversity, Delta has produced some of Nigeria’s most talented musicians, including women who have made significant contributions to the music scene both locally and internationally. These female musicians have not only put Delta State on the map but have also become role models, trailblazers, and icons in the Nigerian music industry.
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the lives and careers of some of the top female musicians from Delta State. These women have shaped the Nigerian music industry in various genres, from Afrobeat to gospel, highlife, and beyond.
1. Omawumi Megbele
Omawumi, popularly known by her first name, is one of the most prominent female musicians from Delta State. Born in Warri, Omawumi rose to fame after participating in the reality TV show West African Idols in 2007, where she finished as the first runner-up. Since then, she has become a household name in Nigeria's music industry.
Omawumi's music is a blend of soul, R&B, and Afrobeat, and her powerful vocals have earned her accolades both locally and internationally. Some of her hit songs include "If You Ask Me," "Bottom Belle," and "In the Music." Her ability to infuse social and political themes into her music has set her apart, making her a voice for change in Nigeria.
Beyond music, Omawumi is known for her work in film and her advocacy for women's rights and education. Her talent, combined with her passion for social causes, has made her an influential figure not only in Delta State but across the African continent.
2. Yemi Alade
Although Yemi Alade's ethnic background traces to both Yoruba and Igbo descent, her mother hails from Delta State, making her an important figure in the Delta music scene. Yemi Alade gained widespread recognition after winning the Peak Talent Show in 2009 and became a global sensation with her hit song "Johnny" in 2013.
Yemi's music is a blend of Afro-pop, highlife, and world music, and she has released numerous chart-topping singles, including "Tangerine," "Na Gode," and "Africa." Known for her energetic performances and Afrocentric style, Yemi Alade has toured around the world, representing not just Nigeria but Africa at large on the international stage.
She has also been named one of Africa's most influential women and has been featured in several international campaigns and initiatives. Her consistency in the music industry has solidified her as one of the top female musicians from Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
3. Patricia Uwaje-King
When talking about gospel music in Nigeria, one cannot overlook Patricia Uwaje-King, one of the lead vocalists of the famous gospel group, Midnight Crew. Born in Delta State, Patricia has dedicated her life to spreading the gospel through music and has become a leading figure in Nigerian gospel music.
Midnight Crew’s hit song "Igwe" remains one of the most iconic Nigerian gospel songs, and Patricia’s powerful voice has made her one of the most recognizable gospel artists in the country. She has also embarked on a solo career with songs like "Eze," "All Power," and "Jehovah Daalu," further establishing herself as a force in the Nigerian gospel scene.
Patricia Uwaje-King is not only known for her music but also for her work in mentoring young gospel artists and her contributions to various charity initiatives. Her influence continues to grow as she inspires new generations of gospel singers from Delta and beyond.
4. Kefee (Irikefe Obareki)
Though she passed away in 2014, Kefee remains one of the most celebrated female musicians to come out of Delta State. Born in Sapele, Delta State, Kefee began her career in gospel music but later expanded her repertoire to include Afro-pop and highlife. Her song "Branama" became an instant hit, catapulting her to fame.
Kefee’s music was known for its uplifting messages, and she often sang about love, faith, and hope. Songs like "Kokoroko," "Sapele Water," and "Celebrate" further cemented her place in Nigerian music history. Kefee was also recognized for her humanitarian efforts, particularly her work in promoting peace and unity in Nigeria.
Despite her untimely death, Kefee’s legacy lives on, and she is remembered as one of Delta State's most talented and impactful female musicians.
5. Nikki Laoye
Although Nikki Laoye was born in Lagos, her roots are traced back to Delta State, and she has become one of Nigeria’s top gospel and soul musicians. Known for her dynamic voice and versatility, Nikki has gained a strong following for her inspirational music that combines elements of R&B, rock, and Afrobeat.
Nikki Laoye rose to prominence with her hit single "Never Felt This Way Before" and later gained international recognition for her humanitarian work. Her song "Only You," a heartfelt tribute to her late father, earned her multiple awards, including the Best Vocal Performance at The Headies.
Apart from her music career, Nikki Laoye is involved in various charitable causes, including advocating for the disabled community in Nigeria. Her passion for social justice and her commitment to her faith make her one of the most respected female artists from Delta State.
6. Emma Nyra
Emma Nyra, born Emma Chukwugoziam Obi, is another top female musician with Delta State roots. Emma Nyra began her career in music after moving back to Nigeria from the United States, where she had initially pursued a career in modeling and entertainment. She gained prominence as a member of Triple MG, a record label co-founded by Iyanya, and featured in hit songs like "Your Waist" and "Elele."
Her music is a fusion of Afrobeat, pop, and R&B, and she has continued to release singles that showcase her vocal talent and versatility. Songs like "For My Matter," "Elele," and "Kereshere" have been well-received by her fans and have earned her recognition in the Nigerian music industry.
Emma Nyra has also used her platform to promote women's empowerment and entrepreneurship, further cementing her status as a role model for young women in Nigeria.
7. Shola Allyson
Shola Allyson-Obaniyi, better known as Shola Allyson, is a Nigerian gospel singer, songwriter, and voice coach with roots in Delta State. Shola gained widespread recognition with her debut album "Eji Owuro," which served as the soundtrack to the popular Yoruba movie of the same name.
Shola Allyson’s music is deeply spiritual, often drawing from traditional Yoruba music, gospel, and soul. Her songs, such as "Obinrin Ni Mi," "Ope," and "Aseye," reflect her strong faith and are loved for their inspirational and soothing qualities.
Over the years, Shola Allyson has become a key figure in the Nigerian gospel music scene, and her contributions to both music and mentorship continue to inspire upcoming artists, especially in Delta State.
8. Aituaje Iruobe (Waje)
Aituaje Iruobe, known professionally as Waje, is one of Nigeria’s most powerful vocalists and another talented musician with roots in Delta State. Waje first gained attention when she was featured on P-Square’s hit song "Do Me." Her career took off from there, and she has since become one of the leading female voices in Nigeria’s music industry.
Waje’s music, which blends soul, R&B, and Afrobeat, has earned her numerous awards and accolades. Some of her most popular songs include "I Wish," "Onye," and "Coco Baby." Known for her incredible vocal range and emotional delivery, Waje has a loyal fan base both in Nigeria and abroad.
Waje is also an advocate for women’s empowerment and uses her platform to speak on issues affecting women and girls in Nigeria. Her contributions to the Nigerian music industry and her dedication to social causes make her one of Delta State’s top female musicians.
Conclusion
The female musicians from Delta State are not only making waves in the Nigerian music industry but also setting standards for other women in the creative industry. From gospel to Afro-pop, R&B, and highlife, these women have shown resilience, talent, and a passion for their craft that has allowed them to break boundaries and achieve remarkable success.
Their contributions to music, social causes, and mentorship continue to inspire young female artists from Delta State and across Nigeria. As they push the envelope and raise the bar, these talented musicians remain ambassadors of their heritage, culture, and state. Delta State can indeed be proud of its female musical icons, who are not only leaving a lasting legacy but are also paving the way for future generations to thrive.
