6th January, 2024
By Taiwo Okanlawon
With the new year comes a new class of rising musicians in the highly competitive Nigerian music industry where everybody is expected to bring their best foot forward.
Artistes like Amada Goodness, Nezaboy, Big Boi Tee, Qing Madi, Llona Yarden, Shine TTW, and others have found their feet in the industry. However, 2024 might just be a year of no limit for them and some other rising stars.
We are always diligently looking for new music, although nothing is guaranteed, we present our top twenty-seven Nigerian artistes to watch out for in 2024, in no particular order:
Qing Madi
Nigerian singer, songwriter, and dancer Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, popularly known as Qing Madi, came to the limelight through her hit single “See Finish.”
Born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Madi is shaping the future of music with her unique genre-bending fusion of Afrobeats, pop, soul, and R&B. The Nigerian artiste is a master of her craft with nearly a decade of experience under her belt, having launched her career at 7 years old.
Influenced by the lyrical arrangements and overall artistry of Kendrick Lamar, Qing Madi is looking to irrevocably change the direction of the industry with her brand of genius.
With her scorecard in 2023 she is slowly making a name for herself in the Afrobeat’s industry as she is set to be the next “big thing” out of Nigeria come 2024.
Llona
Micheal Ajuma Attah, popularly known as” Llona,” is a young and fast-rising recording artist and songwriter from Kogi State, Nigeria. His music styles revolve around contemporary Afrobeats, R&B, and Dancehall.
Llona’s music journey began at a young age, and his professional career took off in 2019 with the release of his first single, “Nobody.” Since then, he has steadily grown an audience that appreciates his unique sound.
Llona recently emerged with a captivating new delightful smash hit song release titled “HBP.”. His fame skyrocketed following the release of his chart-topping single “HBP” remix with Bella Shmurda.
Renowned for his exceptional musical talents and engaging style, Llona has succeeded in capturing the hearts of audiences globally, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the music industry.
This brilliant and emerging singer-songwriter, Llona, drawing inspiration from esteemed musicians like Olamide, weaves various styles, from contemporary Afrobeats to R&B and dancehall, creating a unique and vibrant musical tapestry.
Yarden
Okereke Blessed Jordan, popularly known as Yarden is a Nigerian singer and songwriter born on 2nd August 2000. He is from Abia State but was raised in Lagos State. He comes from a music and entertainment family and possesses a unique sound that features a dark, groovy, and ominous vibe, which is a new and different sound for the world to accept and relate to on an unlimited scale.
The 20-year-old Afrobeats act is currently signed to Etins Record Limited. From school and church performances, Yarden has always enjoyed the thrill of adding emotions to music. And has been doing music since 2018, and he started doing music professionally in 2019.
The reception to his songs such as ‘Wetin’ and ‘Busy Body’ have been surreal, and this is a confirmation that Yarden is one of the new kids on the block to watch out for.
Yemzzy
After bursting into the music scene less than a few years ago with first single “Only One” in 2020, Yemzzy has cemented his place as one of the talent to watch out for in the year 2023.
In the last two years, the Afropop act has releases different projects to proof he’s the new kid in the bloc. His EP, ‘Son Of Moses’ was Yemzzy’s first major project since the beginning of his musical career. He also has a couple of singles and covers to his catalogue.
The EP came after Yemzzy dropped a single titled ‘Tire‘ dedicated to many Nigerian youths who were protesting the current state of Nigeria during the #EndSARS saga.
The song touches on issues like ‘Police Brutality’, harassing and killings of innocent and peaceful protesters who are demanding for a better Nigeria, corruption’ and other topics affecting Nigerians.
The song was a sequel to his previously released “Remember“, “Blessings” and “Only One” which are still enjoying massive airplay. His recent project, “Vibes B4 Sun Dawn” EP, proved that Yemzzy is a pure talent with a good music background and consciousness, and this is reflected in his lyrics and sounds, as he is always out to create music with a message.
Shine TTW
Chukwuma Chinaza Ferdinand, also known as ShineTTW, is a promising Nigerian singer from the southeast part of Nigeria. He had his secondary school education in Anambra, where his knack for singing and beatboxing earned him the tag “class entertainer.”
His love and interest in music are deeply rooted in his genes and childhood after being raised in a creative household with his dad as a DJ at the time. He decided to go into music full-time in 2018.
He describes his sound as Afro-Sentio. Sentio is Latin for experience, he wants his audience to mirror his feelings with every listen, He looks to take advantage of the momentary hyper-focus on Afrobeats and share his deep immersive sound with Africa and beyond.
Shine TTW has made a significant project as a newcomer in the music industry with songs like No Religion, Designer, Enjoy Yourself. His late song Alinko is still enjoying airwaves.
Judging by how relevant these songs have connected with pop culture, Shine TTW may be topping the charts with his upcoming songs in 2024.
Raebel
Raebel is a Nigerian artiste who is currently creating her own space in the music industry with a fresh sound that is a reflection of alternative R&B, Neo-soul, reggae/dancehall, and a sprinkle of the traditional Nigerian flavor.
Raebel’s 2022 biggest song ‘Miniskirt’ was originally a freestyle she did became a smash hit single after she teamed up with Timbun who produced the song.
In 2023, she created more songs, and with the latest song, “Kash and Karry”, she’s definitely up to something for her fans, especially THE RAEBELLIONs, the name of her fan base worldwide.
Moonlight Afriqa
With an awe-inspiring vocal range and exceptional songwriting prowess, Moonlight Afriqa effortlessly blends Afro beats and Afro-fusion, creating an unparalleled and refreshing musical experience.
Born Imaekhai Richard Igebina, Moonlight Afriqa as raised in a Muslim and Christian household. His uncle introduced him to music, and he began playing the drums at the age of four.
His debut EP, ‘Tales By Moonlight comes with an enchanting collection of mesmerizing soundtracks that seamlessly blend Afro-fusion melodies with captivating storytelling.
Taking the music scene by storm, the lead single from the EP, ‘Love Dimension,’ debuted in May and has since been creating ripples across Nigeria and Ghana.
Immerse yourself in the magic of Moonlight Afriqa’s music as he brings a unique and invigorating twist to the industry.
TML Vibez
Timileyin Sulaimon (born 2000) is a talented Nigerian singer and songwriter known by his professional moniker, TML Vibez. He is making significant strides in the Nigerian music industry and has garnered attention for his exceptional talent.
TML Vibez signed under Seyi Vibez’s record label “Vibez Incorporation“, with his infectious energy and genre-blending sounds, is ready to take the music scene by storm.
After TML Vibez’s debut project titled “Timileyin EP” dropped, he sprouted up the chart with his single titled “Goated” featuring his label boss, Seyi Vibez. Watch out for him.
Gdzilla
Emerging from the dynamic core of Lagos State, Gdzilla’s musical journey, which blossomed in 2023, is more than a career choice; it’s the realization of a lifelong dream, an impassioned odyssey. His music seamlessly merges traditional Afrobeat rhythms, deeply rooted in Lagos’ cultural tapestry, with a contemporary twist, crafting a compelling soundscape.
Gdzilla is signed to DPrince‘s Jonzing Record label, which means he’s a brother to Rema and Ruger.
Gdzilla’s artistry delves into the intricate threads of Lagos State’s heritage, weaving together personal experiences and addressing societal issues. His lyrics transcend mere words, serving as a profound testament to his unyielding connection with his roots and a fervent desire to wield music as an instrument for change.
Destined to illuminate the music world with authenticity and artistry, Gdzilla’s commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging norms makes him a force to be reckoned with in 2024.
Ninety
Ninety, whose real name is Alabo Tuonims, emerges at a time when the Afrobeats genre is evolving, with Late Millennials and Gen Z shifting specific themes and styles of traditional genres in music.
Ninety is gradually establishing himself as a musical mainstay from Port Harcourt to the world. Formerly known as Ninety6, Ninety identifies as an Afro-Fusion artiste, blending Pop, R&B, Dancehall, and Reggae into a flawless hybrid.
Ninety brings a fresh fluidity to the wave of sounds being newly generated in this multi-genre, and with songs like Smoke and Chill, Sharp Attack, Touch and Follow, We expect an upward trajectory in Ninety’s growth in 2024.
Smada
Adams Olabode, popularly known as Smada, is a songwriter and an artist with a blend of diversified genres. From Afrobeats, to Indie, to Alternative, Afro-Pop. He is signed to NATIVE Records in partnership with Def Jam Recordings.
Smada has gained recognition for his ability to create energetic and groove-filled tracks that resonate with a diverse crowd. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. He kick-started his career in 2017. Drawing inspiration from the rich Nigerian music culture and international electronic acts, he embarked on a journey to create his own sonic identity.
Ayox
Ayomide Bakare Iyanuoluwa, professionally known as Ayox, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He recorded his first song when he was 12. He’s an Afrosoul artiste whose style of music and spirituality was influenced by his dad’s choice of music. He grew up listening to legendary musicians like Beautiful Nubia, Orlando Owoh, Wale Glory, and Olamide Baddo.
He initially gained recognition in 2023 after making a cover of Libianca’s song “People,” which attracted so many big names in the industry like Akon, Chris Brown, BU, James, Don Jazzy, Gibson Kagni, Bankulli, and so many other legends.
Ayox’s music blends High life, Fuji, Afrobeat, Hiphop but specifically RnB & Souls. He has stated his musical influences are singers Olamide, Burna Boy, Fireboy, Jahmiel, Justin Bieber, Giveon Evergreen highlife artists Beautiful Nubia, Orlando Owoh, King Sunny Ade, and so many others.
Ayox pays homage to the late Mohbad, who he’s been likened to, with “Walking Dead” featuring Zlatan, reflecting on the transience of life, suggesting that until death comes, we are all like the ‘walking dead’
“Walking Dead” shows Ayox’s remarkable ability to craft infectious, chart-topping hits, combined with Zlatan’s magnetic presence, providing a fitting and sensational conclusion to this exceptional musical journey.
“Last Son of a Widow”, serves as a testament to AYOX’s artistic growth, as he skillfully weaves together diverse musical genres while maintaining a profound and meaningful lyrical depth.
Major AJ
Major AJ is one of the most vibrant of voices veering into the Nigerian music scene, especially at this time when the industry is tilting towards an RnB/Pop monotony.
Born Ajogwu Boluwatife Vincent on April 8th, he grew up following his mom and grandmom to rehearsals in church and from there his love for music was birthed. He attended University of Ilorin where he studied Computer Science but his true love was always music.
His music style, an eclectic blend of Electronic Funk, Pop and RnB, takes listeners back to the golden era of the ‘80s, when the Steve Monites, Fela Kuti, and William Onyeabors of this world flourished with their distinct sounds of escapism.
When he graduated in 2019, he immediately went into the studio and released his first single, ‘Terminator’ in February 2020. This opened up more recording opportunities and he followed that up with ‘Original Love’ in April . In 2021, he released a single called ‘SALO’ that caught the attention of Chocolate City’s A&R, and the rest, like they say, is history.
In 2022, he dropped his EP, Retroverse and his 2023 single “My Own” featuring Blaqbonez was one of best love collaborations of the year.
Tariq
Nigerian singer-songwriter Tariq Oluokun, professionally known as TAR1Q (TAH-reek), is signed to Nutrybe, a development academy under Chocolate City Music. Blessed with a velvety voice and tone, he stands out for his heartfelt storytelling, stage presence and his chameleon-like ability to blend distinct genres.
His musical style, which he terms ‘Neo-Afro’, synthesizes contemporary Afrobeats, Pop, Hip-Hop and classic R&B. In the same way, He cites Post Malone, K1 de Ultimate and Frank Ocean as core influences on his sound and overall stagecraft. Born in Benin city, He discovered his love for music at the age of 12.
In 2018, he decided to give music as a career a chance and began experimenting with his sound. First as a trap-rapper, enjoying putting lyrics together, then he grew to enjoy melody and chants, which he has infused to create a unique and emotive sound.
After a year in the Academy recording music, Tar1Q has graduated with a total catalog of 100 unreleased songs, and a very clear understanding of his sound and his brand. As an introvert, “His Music” captures his thoughts perfectly rather than serve as an escape route.
His 2023-released sophomore record, ‘All I Felt’ showcases his maturation in his musicianship, marking a milestone in his career evolution.
Eli Jae
Nigerian singer, songwriter and performing music act, Abuchi Elijah Emedem popularly known as Eli Jae, was raised in the city of Port Harcourt where he first found his love for music, he enjoyed writing and being a backup act for other artists until he decided to start making music of his own. His sound flawlessly merges R&B with Afro beats and alternative music.
His love for music was influenced by diverse sounds and genres, growing up in a family where everyone loved and enjoyed music. He loved listening to early afrobeat, pop, early 2000s rnb/soul music, hip-hop/rap music, dancehall/reggae and gospel music.
“My musical influences are Novo Amor, Ed Tullet, Hailaker, Thejapanesehouse, Miguel, Frank Ocean, and Chris Brown. I loved how they saw music as art and presented it to the world.”
Eli Jae’s music is a beautiful fusion of pop, R&B, and Afrobeats that displays his wide range of influences, from gospel music to Fela’s Afrobeat.
In September 2023, he released a debut new EP “Blend” which shows his artistic development by telling an engrossing story with each song and enticing listeners to see the world through his musical lens.
Noon Dave
Nigerian AfroPop singer-songwriter Noon Dave is an Alumni of Peter Kings College of Music, who taps his songwriting inspiration from a diverse exposure to different genres, soaking up elements from Pop, R&B, Soul, and, of course, Afro Beats to create his Unique Sound.
Signed to Chocolate City in 2022, Noon’s breakout single Brunch took over the radio airwaves and launched him into the category of one’s to watch.
His sophomore single, ‘Hillary,’ solidified his place as he talks about a Toxic love coming to an end and learning to live and love again. Noon has featured on songs by peers such as Blaqbonez and has the ability to create wonderful music everyone connects to so effortlessly.
His approach to making music is certainly one that promises to keep him relevant for a very long time.
Brown Joel
From a place of many struggling generations, Brown Joel illuminates with music that is inspired by a piece of his thoughts, environment, era and experience with an aspiration of becoming a symbol of hope and an ambassador of greatness.
Born Agubosim Favour Brown and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Brown Joel’s music originates from his heart and communicates happiness, a safe zone, peace and friendship that awakens the spirit mind. High Spirit! However, these references are not limited as his music touches on various overlapping themes and issues.
With a targeted fan base of the trending generation (Gen-Z) of pop culture, the artiste is a virtuoso and great performer that is ready to entertain his listeners.
Kold AF
Kold AF is an emerging Nigerian Afrofusion artist. Kold AF’s journey into the limelight was meticulously crafted, marked by a transformative artist’s development phase which displayed confidence and self-assuredness in her sound.
She combines her individual creativity with a dynamic infusion of musical genres, held up by an adeptness in songwriting.
So far she’s released two compelling projects: her two-song EP “Kold Szn” in 2022 and her 2023 EP in collaboration with French producer BGRZ, “Kollided.”
Her incredible ability to fuse genres cannot be denied. A listen will convince you.
Muis
Muis Ajao Oyindamola, popularly known as “MUIS,” is a talented singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist from Lagos, Nigeria. MUIS, formerly known as King AMO, started his professional music career in 2018 during his third year at the University of Lagos, where he is currently studying Medicine and Surgery.
He signed a management deal with Chase Music in 2021 and was part of the extended playlist “The Chase EP,” which debuted at number one on the Apple Music Nigerian pop album charts. His collaboration with Jinmi Abduls, “Want You,” made it to the “Best Song Of The Week” playlist on Audiomack. Muis gained the spotlight with his song “Pon My Mind,” which became one of the fans’ favourites.
In 2023, he rebranded and started going by the name MUIS. He released one of the most inspiring songs of 2023 called “SAATI RAMONI” which peaked at number 11 on the viral charts on Spotify and earned him several Airplay across Radio Stations, so many co-signs and it definitely put a spotlight on him as one of the most talented emerging artists in Nigeria presently.
This song has definitely put Muis on the map in the Nigerian music scene, making his EP one of the most anticipated projects to be released in 2024 by an emerging act.
He describes his sound as experimental yet nostalgic, which has made him a budding artist in AfroFusion, and he is poised to be one of the biggest Afrobeats exports in history.
Amexin
Kalu Daniel Onoh known as Amexin Born July 25th is a Nigerian singer and songwriter that uses Afrobeat and folk music to create a unique. Amexin signed a record deal in 2022 with Estlon music and publishing deal with Ultra International Music Publishing
In 2023, Amexin teams up with DJ Tunez to released a collaborated self titled EP “Amexin”
Amexin is a romantic, and this quality comes through in both his personality and the subjects he sings about. His motivation is nature. The unity that exists among variation and the completeness of every species bound by nature are what he refers to as lovely. He finds inspiration in this reality alone.
The EP showed that the singer was not here to play at all, and after his live in concert which held on December 2nd, 2023 at the Pop Central, it shows there is more to come.
Twelve XII
Twelve XII describes himself as a singer-songwriter, producer, sound engineer and noisemaker. His world changed when he asked his mother for a guitar at age 12 – fast forward to 2015 and he began experimenting with more styles and instruments and by 2018, he considered pursuing his craft professionally after walking into the first studio he had ever been to: Bantu Studios.
“My mission is to be a conduit of emotion, soul and self by making music that I and others like me connect with”, says Twelve XII.
Inspired by incredible artists like Michael Jackson, Sampha & Khalid, Twelve XII’s music connects people through an otherworldly experience.
Under the mentorship of frequent collaborator Tay Iwar, he has developed his talent to a point where he creates a blend of euphoric alternative R&B, sweet future soul, smooth afro-fusion and even enigmatic trap; a sonic palette that has piqued the interests of superstar Tems, rap duo Show Dem Camp and radio host Rebecca Judd.
Twelve XII’s 2023 release ‘Undercover Lover’ was first played on BBC Radio One in the UK and several other radio Stations and Music Platforms earning him a cumulative listenership fan base of over a 100,000.
Amada Goodness
AMADA GOODNESS, also known as DC Poundzy, is a talented singer/vocalist and songwriter. He was born and raised in Ughelli North Delta state.
He sees music as a way of expressing his inner thoughts.
According to Amada Goodness, his music is inspired by his environment, mood and songs from legends such as Wizkid and Burna Boy.
Speaking on his journey into music, the youngster said: “I started out singing in the church from playing keyboards to drumming and ended up creating songs for myself. Initially I was remixing other people’s song but at a point I had to stop and start creating my own music. I got motivated after reading Wizkid’s biography and since then I have not looked back.”
Amada Goodness professionally picked up his career as a musical artiste in 2023 but seems to have mastered the game already with the quality of music he has released.
NezaBoy
NEZABOY is a highly talented Nigerian artiste. He started making music at an early age. The beauty of his music is that he has the ability to make different genres of music using different languages from all over the world.
He has recorded over 300 unreleased songs since he was signed into JTUNESWORLDWIDE in 2019. He has also released three beautiful songs since then.
He released Boogie Man (2021), Wagwan Teelan (double single compilation) (2022) and BADDERZONE (double single compilation) in 2023.
Nezaboy has also featured on several top playlists of different streaming platforms around the world. He has over 1 million streams on all streaming platforms.
Below are his social media handles:@nezaboymusic on (Instagram, X, TikTok)
@Nezaboy on (Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat)
Big Boi Tee
David Azuma, popularly known as BIG BOI TEE, also started making music at an early age. The youngster has the ability to make different genres of music.
He has released one Ep and melodious singles.
He dropped LOVE, SPACE & TIME EP in 2023. BIG BOI TEE also dropped FLAMERS and Chiburu Oma in 2023.
He’s currently working on his first album titled AETERNUM.
BIG BOI TEE has featured on several top playlists on different streaming platforms around the world and has over 1million streams on all streaming platforms.
HANDLES:
@iambigboi_tee (Instagram,twitter)
BIG BOI TEE(Facebook Fanpage )
ibigtee01(Snapchat)
@ibigboi_tee( TikTok)