Top Afrobeats Artistes outside Nigeria

By Nimot Sulaimon

The genre’s impact on the U.S. music industry is substantial, with over 15 billion global streams and a notable presence on the 2023 Billboard U.S.A. Afrobeats Artists chart. Rooted in West Africa, it merges elements of hip-hop, R&B, and house with its distinctive rhythms, intricate percussion, and vibrant chanted vocals. Its popularity in the U.S. reflects years of innovation and persistence from African artists.

However, Afrobeats has established itself as a major cultural and musical force in the United States, as a central hub for the genre’s global spread. Initially gaining international traction in the late 2010s, Afrobeats has since become a staple on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Hence, it’s celebrated as one of Africa’s most significant cultural exports, contributing to the rapid rise of global music trends.

According to Luminate Data, Afrobeats has seen a 26.2% increase in on-demand streaming, making it one of the fastest-growing genres in both the U.S. and worldwide alongside K-pop. This rise showcases Afrobeats’ ability to bridge cultures, drawing a wide, diverse audience that continues to fuel its global momentum.

Johnny Crown Omolade, born on January 21, 1997, in Brooklyn, New York, is a dynamic artist who bridges his American roots with his Nigerian heritage, creating a unique blend of his music and artistry. Raised between Brooklyn and Lagos, Nigeria, Johnny’s educational journey took him from Christland School in Ikeja, Lagos, to high school in Queens, New York. He later graduated from New York University (NYU) in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Media, Culture, and Communication.

His talents extend beyond music; he’s also an actor, writer, and avid sports enthusiast, enjoying both basketball and football. His passion for music began early, as he was drawn to the rhythms and stories that left an indelible mark on him. Inspired by the deep connection and emotion in the tracks he grew up with, Johnny aims to create music that resonates with listeners on a similar level.

For Johnny, Afrobeats’ global influence is powerful and overdue, as it showcases Africa’s rich musical heritage on an international stage. His role models are those who push boundaries, stay authentic, and inspire through their art.

In his latest project, ‘’Drunk’’Johnny delves into themes of escapism, self-reflection, and human vulnerability. The EP metaphorically explores intoxication—not just by alcohol but by life’s complex emotions and challenges. Each track is a sonic exploration, capturing the highs and lows of life’s journey, and presenting an honest and introspective experience for listeners.

Ayoola Ogundeyi Jr., known professionally as Ayo Jay, was born on August 9, 1989, in London, England, to Nigerian parents. Raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Ayo Jay discovered his passion for singing and songwriting at a young age. He completed his education at the International School Lagos (ISL) in 2006 before moving to the United States to pursue a degree in finance and investment at Baruch College. Although his academic focus was in business, his passion for music remained central to his life, and he continued to hone his musical abilities during his time in the U.S.

His career took a significant turn in 2013 when he signed a record deal with One Nation Records. He released his debut single, “Your Number,” on June 21, 2013, which quickly gained popularity and set the stage for his rise to fame. The music video for the song was filmed in Atlanta, and its success led to a remix in 2015 featuring American rapper Fetty Wap. Ayo’s association with RCA Records helped push “Your Number” to even greater heights, and in 2017, the song was certified Gold by the RIAA. Additionally, a remix featuring Chris Brown and Kid Ink was released in 2016, further solidifying Ayo Jay’s international presence.

His music blends Afrobeats rhythms with contemporary R&B, pop, and hip-hop influences. His style has resonated with audiences both in Africa and internationally. Some of his notable tracks include “Your Number,” “Think About Me,” “Correct G” featuring Davido and Olamide, “The Vibe,” and “Peace of Mind.”These tracks have showcased his ability to blend different musical genres while maintaining his Afrobeats roots, helping him carve out a space in the global music scene.

Throughout his career, Ayo Jay has received recognition for his musical talents. He won the Most Promising Act to Watch award at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards and later won the Diaspora Artist award in 2016. He has also been nominated for Best New Act to Watch at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards, further cementing his place as one of the rising stars in Afrobeats.

Currently signed to One Nation Records and RCA, he continues to grow his influence in the music industry. With his distinctive sound, which blends African rhythms with global pop and R&B, Ayo Jay is well-positioned for further success. As he continues to release new music and collaborate with top international artists, his future in the music industry looks promising, and he is set to remain a prominent figure in the Afrobeats genre for years to come.

Oluwafisayo Isa, known by her stage name Darkoo, is a British-Nigerian rapper and singer who gained significant recognition with her breakout single “Gangsta” featuring One Acen. Born on September 19, 2001, in Lagos, Nigeria, Darkoo moved to the UK at the age of 7 and was raised in South London. Her music journey began at the age of 15 when she started as a drill rapper before incorporating singing into her style, quickly gaining attention with her distinctive sound.

Her music career began in late 2019 with the release of “Gangsta,” which became a viral sensation on TikTok. The song debuted on the Official Singles Chart at number 34 in November 2019 and later peaked at number 22 in January 2020. The track’s success helped establish Darkoo as a notable figure in the UK music scene.

In 2020, she followed up with the single “Juicy,” featuring Hardy Caprio, which peaked at number 62 on the Official Singles Chart. Her rising popularity earned her two nominations at the 2020 MOBO Awards for Best Female Act and Best Newcomer, with “Gangsta” also being nominated for Song of the Year.

In April 2021, Darkoo featured on the remix of “Body” by Russ Millions and Tion Wayne, which helped the song achieve number 1 on the Official Singles Chart. This success further cemented her position in the UK music industry. Later that year, Darkoo released her debut EP, 2 In 1, featuring collaborations with artists such as Tion Wayne and Unknown T.

In 2022, Darkoo was nominated for the Best Diaspora Afrobeats Artist of the Year at The Headies Awards, further highlighting her impact on the global Afrobeats scene. The following year, she was recognized by Pandora Music Italy as one of the most streamed musicians, alongside other notable artists such as Marco Mengoni and Baby K.

In September 2023, Virgin Music Nigeria, led by Kimani Moore, announced its collaboration with her for the distribution of her music in Nigeria, marking another milestone in her growing career.

Her musical style blends drill, Afrobeats, and hip hop, and her success continues to make her a key figure in the evolving UK music scene. With several chart-topping hits and a rising profile, she is poised for even greater achievements in the years to come.

May Odegbami, known professionally as May7ven, is a Nigerian-born artist who has made an indelible mark on the music and entertainment world as a singer, songwriter, dancer, producer, actress, model, and entrepreneur. Born in Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria, she is the biological daughter of Segun Odegbami, one of Nigeria’s greatest footballers, and grew up in the UK after relocating there at the age of six with her mother and siblings.

Her early life was filled with music, dance, and academic pursuits, as she studied music, sound engineering, and architecture while developing her passion for dance. At just 10 years old, she joined her church choir and began teaching street dance at the local community centre in Kensal Green when she was 14.

In 1997, May7ven started her professional career as a backing singer and songwriter at the age of 15. She worked with a range of artists, providing backing vocals for Phoebe One, Wayne Marshall, and Jamelia, and toured with prominent acts such as Akon, Joe Thomas, and Mary J. Blige. Her involvement in these projects helped establish her as a recognized talent in the industry. Her career continued to evolve as she worked with other top artists, showcasing her versatility as a performer and musician.

May7ven’s breakthrough came in 2008 with the release of her debut single Hands Up, which she co-wrote with producer Aeon ‘Step’ Manahan. The song introduced her to the UK music scene, and in 2009, she released Take Off My Clothes/Bo Aso La Ra Mi under her label, Best Entertainment. The single gained traction in both the UK and Nigeria, with its video receiving heavy rotation on Nigerian charts and international channels like MTV Base UK, Channel AKA, and Soundcity TV. Known for her acrobatic African dance style, street dance, and the fusion of traditional Nigerian steps, May7ven quickly became recognized for her unique stage presence and energetic performances.

Her success continued as she signed endorsement deals with major brands such as Guinness, ExxonMobil, and Zain. She embarked on an 18-city tour across the UK and Nigeria, sharing her music with an even wider audience. In 2012, she released Ten Ten, a single that gained heavy airplay on UK radio stations. The song helped solidify her place in the Afrobeats scene, and she continued to release new material such as Hey Mr in 2013, which was also well received.

May7ven’s performance career took her to various international stages, including the O2 Arena in London, where she opened for the Mo Hits crew’s Koko Concert, and to major concerts in Sweden, Germany, and Nigeria. She performed in front of thousands of fans and at prestigious events such as the Shell World Cup Football tournaments in Lagos.

With her career, May7ven has showcased her artistic talents and entrepreneurial spirit, proving that a combination of passion and determination can lead to great success. Her contributions to the Afrobeats genre and her commitment to social causes have made her a role model for future generations of artists. With a legacy that continues to inspire, May7ven remains an influential figure in music and beyond.

Mohammed Basit Abiola Isola Animashaun, better known by his stage name Moelogo, is a celebrated British-Nigerian singer and songwriter. Born on April 13, 1990, in Lagos, Moelogo has made significant strides in the music industry, becoming a recognized figure in the Afrobeats genre. His distinctive sound and songwriting skills have earned him accolades and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Tiwa Savage and Jonas Blue.

His journey into music began at a young age. He moved from Lagos to London in 2001, where he spent his formative years. It wasn’t until he was 14 years old that he discovered his musical talents, joining his school choir. This sparked a deeper interest in music, prompting him to further pursue his passion by attending London’s Starlight Music Academy. Through this institution, he honed his craft and laid the foundation for his music career.

In 2013, Moelogo made his debut in the music scene with his EP Moe Is My Name, Music Is My Logo. The project introduced his unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul, establishing him as an artist to watch. The release of this EP marked the beginning of his rise in the music industry.
In 2016, Moelogo’s talent was recognized with a nomination for Best African Artist at the MOBO Awards, a significant achievement that showcased his growing influence in the UK and global music scenes. That same year, he released the hit single Penkele, which gained attention across African music platforms and earned him further recognition.

A breakthrough moment came in 2017 when Moelogo featured on Jonas Blue’s single We Could Go Back. The song charted at No. 74 on the UK Singles Chart and also made waves on the US Dance/Electronic Songs chart, peaking at No. 34. The track’s success extended beyond the UK, charting in countries like Belgium, Sweden, and New Zealand, further solidifying Moelogo’s position as an international artist.

In 2018, Moelogo secured a publishing deal with Downtown Records, a major step forward in his career. This partnership allowed him to continue creating music that resonates with his fans while gaining even more industry recognition.

Throughout his career, Moelogo has received numerous awards and nominations, reflecting his impact on the music industry. His achievements include nominations for Best African Artist at the 2015 MOBO Awards and Diaspora Artist of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards, as well as recognition for his collaborations. In 2020, he won the Best Alternative Song award at The Headies.

Moelogo’s journey from a school choir member in London to an internationally recognized Afrobeats artist is a testament to his dedication and passion for music.

Paul Nii Amu Andrew Darko, known by his stage name Darkovibes, is a Ghanaian-born singer and songwriter born in 1995. His music blends experimental styles, incorporating highlife, hip-hop, and rap. He gained significant attention with his 2016 single “Mercy.”

He earned recognition as a nominee in the Hip Hop Song of the Year category at the 2017 Ghana Music Awards for his feature on Edem’s remix of “Egboame.” Over the years, he has collaborated with artists such as Omar Sterling of R2bees, Joey B, Edem, Efya, Magnom, Pheelz Mr. Producer from Nigeria, and Kuvie. In 2016, he also wrote and performed the theme song for MTN Ghana’s Pulse campaign.

As a member of the creative collective La Meme Gang, he has worked with fellow members like Kiddblack, Nxwrth, RJZ, $pacely, and Kwaku BS. In 2017, the group released their first collaborative project, La Meme Tape.
His fashion sense is as distinctive as his music, with his style incorporating coloured hairstyles, side bags, and elements from the 80s. In 2017, he was featured by Vogue UK for his unique blend of music and fashion at Ghana’s annual art and culture festival, Chalewote.

He has also contributed to various albums, including Joey B’s Darryl EP (2017) and Magnum’s We Speed (2017), among others. His videography includes popular music videos such as “Tomorrow” and “Placebo,” showcasing his continued presence in the Ghanaian music scene.

Damibliz, born Lukmon Damilare Yusuff on February 11, 1999, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a UK-based Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his contributions to Afrobeats, Afro-pop, and Afro-R&B. His musical career began in 2018 with the release of his debut single Jowabayi, a song blending Yoruba, English, and Pidgin, which became a major hit and received international recognition. The track was initially a collaboration with Mystro and Naira Marley, later remixed to feature CDQ.

Damibliz’s music has earned him recognition in various countries, including the UK, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya. He has performed at major venues such as the O2 Arena and Felabration, sharing the stage with renowned Afrobeats stars like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido.

He moved to the UK in 2016 and quickly became known for his unique style, mixing high-tempo street anthems and slow love ballads. His influences include legendary artists such as Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, and Ebenezer Obey. He’s also known for his dynamic live performances, including sold-out shows and appearances at notable Afrobeats events in the UK and internationally.

In addition to his solo work, he has collaborated with artists like Young Chap, Subzilla, and Double-A, further establishing his presence in the Afrobeats scene. His music often reflects his Nigerian roots while appealing to a global audience.

His versatility and commitment to his craft have earned him accolades, including the Best New Discovery Male award at the DBE Awards in 2018, and recognition at the Diamond Special Recognition Awards Worldwide. He continues to make waves in the Afrobeats industry with each new release.

Osayaba Andrew Ize-Iyamu, better known by his stage name Cruel Santino, is a Nigerian alternative singer, songwriter, rapper, and director. Born on June 3, 1992, in Lagos and raised in Ikeja, he first ventured into the music scene as a rapper under the name Ozzy B in 2011. He later gained recognition with his mixtapes Diaries of a Loner (2011) and Birth of Santi (2013).

In 2016, he rebranded himself as Santi and released his first EP, Suzie’s Funeral, followed by the popular single “Gangsta Fear” which gained commercial success in Nigeria and the UK. His music fuses a variety of genres, including R&B, rap, Afrobeats, and indie, often exploring themes of alternative culture and personal expression. His track “Rapid Fire” from 2018, featuring artists like Shane Eagle and Amaarae, was a standout hit, pushing him further into the spotlight.

In 2019, Santino released his debut studio album Mandy & The Jungle, which featured collaborations with GoldLink, DRAM, Amaarae, and others. The album was widely acclaimed and solidified his place in the global music scene.

In 2020, Santino changed his stage name to Cruel Santino and signed a joint venture deal with Interscope Records. He continued to build on his success, releasing his highly anticipated album Subaru Boys: FINAL HEAVEN in 2022, which was included in Rolling Stone’s list of the best albums of the year. Throughout his career, Santino has also been known for his unique sense of style, influenced by ragga and indie music, and his role in the alternative Afropop movement.

Cruel Santino remains a key figure in the global music scene, pushing the boundaries of genre and representing a new wave of African artists who are reshaping the music landscape.

Lekan Osifeso Jnr., better known by his stage name Lojay, is a rising Nigerian artist, songwriter, and producer who has quickly gained international recognition. He was born on April 28, 1996, and began his musical journey at a young age, influenced by his love for music and the guidance of his mother, a pastor. Lojay grew up in Ikorodu and Victoria Island, Lagos, where his passion for music developed alongside his studies.

He attended Nigerian Turkish Secondary School, where he formed a local rap group called Dkoy, which helped him hone his musical talents. His professional music career began in 2016 when he started making music part-time while still pursuing his studies at the University of Portsmouth in the UK.

After graduating in 2018, he decided to focus on music full-time. His debut EP, “Midnight Vibes”, released in December 2017, marked the beginning of his journey in the Nigerian music scene. However, it was his 2021 EP, “LV N ATTN” that solidified his place in the Afrobeats spotlight. This EP, a collaboration with renowned producer Sarz, featured the hit single “Monalisa,” which was later remixed with Chris Brown and gained significant attention, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard U.S.

Afrobeats Songs chart. This track was a breakthrough moment for Lojay, earning him a nomination for the Headies Award for Next Rated Artist in 2022.

In 2023, Lojay’s star continued to rise with his participation in Chris Brown’s song “Sensational,” which also featured Nigerian artist Davido. This track marked their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100, debuting at number 71.

His ability to blend genres—combining Afrobeats with elements of R&B, pop, and even rock has made him a versatile and innovative artist in the international music scene. He prefers not to be confined to a single genre, instead embracing whichever style best expresses his creativity.

His second solo EP, “Gangster Romantic”, released in March 2023, further showcased his evolving sound, incorporating collaborations with prominent South African artists DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small. Lojay’s music captivates listeners with its blend of catchy beats and heartfelt lyrics, and his steady rise in global music charts attests to his growing influence.

With breakout singles, collaborations with top international artists, and an expanding discography that includes hits like “Tonongo” and “Ariel,” Lojay is poised to become a major force in the global music scene. His innovative approach to Afrobeats, ability to transcend borders, and dedication to pushing musical boundaries make him a standout artist to watch in the coming years.

Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, known professionally as Oxlade, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who rose to international prominence with his hit song “Away” in 2020. Born on April 22, 1997, in Surulere, Lagos, Oxlade began his music career after dropping out of university to pursue his passion for music. He was discovered by A&R executive Bizzle Osikoya in 2018, which led to his signing with Troniq Music.

His breakthrough came with the release of “Away” in 2020, a track that gained widespread attention, particularly after Canadian rapper Drake posted a screenshot of himself listening to it. He continued to build his career with successful collaborations, including “Interest” with Dolapo and Ms Banks, which marked his debut on the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart.

His music blends Afro-fusion with elements of R&B and mainstream pop, and his smooth, melodic voice has earned him a unique place in the Afrobeats genre. His song “Ku Lo Sa” from 2022 garnered significant attention on the global stage, topping various charts and being featured in Pandora Africa’s Next Artist segment. In addition to his music, Oxlade faced controversy in early 2022 when a private video was leaked, but he publicly apologized for the incident.

Known for his rich voice and mix of languages, including English and Pidgin, Oxlade continues to rise in the international music scene, with ongoing projects and collaborations. His music often explores themes of love and contemporary life, bridging the gap between the experimental sounds of Afro-fusion and the mainstream Afrobeats genre.

Samson Nduka Edwin, known as Rhythim, is a Nigerian-American Afrobeats artist whose journey spans the taekwondo mat to the music stage. Born on May 5, 1995, in Delta State, Nigeria, and raised in Lagos by a father who served as a soldier, His early life was influenced by the legendary sounds of Nigerian musicians like Fela Kuti, Victor Uwaifo, and Tony Allen. His music background and experiences in a church singing group called Young Singers shaped his path towards becoming an artist.

Before delving into music, he excelled as a taekwondo athlete, representing Nigeria in global competitions. He competed in the 2015 African Games, and the 2016 Summer Olympics, and served as captain of Nigeria’s team at the 2017 World Taekwondo Championships in South Korea. These athletic achievements instilled discipline and resilience, which later became valuable as he navigated his transition into the music industry.

In 2018, He relocated to the United States, fully committing to his passion for music. Over the next few years, he crafted his unique sound, blending Afrobeats with personal and cultural themes. He released three EPs—Play, Naijarated, and Afrobeats & Jollof—from 2021 to 2022. Each project pays homage to Nigerian culture, especially through the lens of music and food, and resonates with audiences both within and outside Nigeria.

With singles like “On Me,” he has attracted a following that appreciates his fusion of Afrobeats with international influences, maintaining the essence of Nigerian culture while reaching a broader audience.

Today, he is recognized as a leading figure among Afrobeats artists abroad, celebrating his roots and bridging cultures through his music. His story rose from taekwondo champion to Afrobeats star highlighting the powerful blend of tradition, discipline, and artistry that defines his career.