9th February, 2025
Nigeria’s music industry continues to evolve, producing globally recognized talents who push the boundaries of Afrobeats, street-hop, and alternative sounds. In this year, 2025, a new wave of artistes is set to redefine the scene, blending traditional influences with modern innovation. From international chart-toppers to rising stars making waves, these musicians are shaping the future of Nigerian music. Here are 10 artistes to watch out for in 2025.
1. Rema
Rema continues to redefine Afrobeats with his Afro-rave sound, blending traditional African rhythms with global influences. His international collaborations, chart-topping singles, and unique melodies make him a dominant force in 2025. With his increasing global appeal, he is expected to keep breaking records, influencing new artists, and pushing Afrobeats further into mainstream Western music markets.
2. Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr’s bold lyrics, energetic stage presence, and genre-blending sound position her as one of Nigeria’s top female artists. Her ability to fuse Afropop with R&B and alternative sounds gives her an edge. With hit singles like “Rush” and collaborations with international stars, she is poised to take Nigerian music global in 2025, inspiring more young female artistes in the industry.
3. Asake
Asake’s Fuji-infused Afrobeat sound has captivated audiences, making him one of Nigeria’s biggest breakout stars. His street-hop anthems, high-energy beats, and signature chorus layering technique continue to dominate airwaves. With an expanding global reach and consistent chart success, Asake is expected to shape the Nigerian music industry in 2025 by keeping indigenous sounds relevant and vibrant.
4. Tems
Tems’ unique voice and alternative R&B-Afrobeats fusion have earned her international recognition, including a Grammy. Her ability to blend deep, soulful lyrics with contemporary Afrobeats has set her apart. As she continues to collaborate with global superstars, Tems is expected to redefine Nigerian music in 2025, leading a new wave of artists experimenting with neo-soul and Afro-fusion sounds.
5. Odumodublvck
Odumodublvck is at the forefront of Nigeria’s rap revolution, combining hip-hop with traditional street-hop elements. His raw, gritty lyrics and experimental beats have made him one of the most exciting names in Nigerian rap. As he gains more recognition, his influence on rap and drill music in Nigeria will grow, paving the way for a stronger hip-hop culture in 2025.
6. Seyi Vibez
Seyi Vibez has mastered the art of storytelling through music, blending Fuji, Afrobeats, and street-hop into a unique sound. His deep lyrics and emotional delivery have earned him a cult-like following. With a growing fanbase and a knack for releasing back-to-back hits, Seyi Vibez is set to be one of the key figures in Nigeria’s music scene in 2025.
7. Bloody Civilian
Bloody Civilian is a fresh voice in the Nigerian music industry, fusing alternative sounds with Afrobeats and pop influences. Her creativity, bold lyricism, and genre-defying style make her one to watch. With increasing recognition and collaborations, she is set to push boundaries in 2025, bringing a new dimension to Nigerian music with her eclectic approach and originality.
8. Victony
Victony’s ability to blend Afrobeats with alternative R&B and trap music makes him a standout act. His smooth vocals and genre versatility have gained him widespread attention. With his growing international reach and ability to experiment with different musical styles, Victony is set to be a major influence in Nigerian music in 2025, especially in the alternative Afro-fusion space.
9. Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML’s soulful voice, poetic songwriting, and ability to blend Afrobeats with R&B and pop set him apart. His hit songs like “Peru” have cemented his place as a global Afrobeats ambassador. With his consistent track record of delivering quality music and his growing international fanbase, Fireboy DML is expected to remain one of Nigeria’s biggest music exports in 2025.
10. Shallipopi
Shallipopi’s street-hop sound and viral anthems have made him a fan favorite. His ability to mix humor, slang, and catchy beats into chart-topping tracks has positioned him as a leading figure in Nigeria’s street music scene. As he continues to evolve, his influence on the street-hop and Afrobeats fusion movement will likely grow, making him a key player in 2025.
11. BNXN (Buju)
Known for his melodious hooks and smooth delivery, BNXN remains a dominant voice in Nigerian music. His collaborations and solo projects keep him relevant on the charts.
12. Ruger
With his distinctive eyepatch look and sensual lyrics, Ruger continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeats. His global appeal is expected to grow even stronger in 2025.
13. Davido
A true Afrobeats heavyweight, Davido’s consistency in delivering hit songs and expanding Afrobeats globally ensures he will remain influential in shaping Nigerian music in 2025.
14. Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s Grammy-winning career and fusion of Afro-fusion, reggae, and hip-hop have made him a global icon. His experimental approach to music keeps him at the forefront of Nigeria’s evolving sound.
15. Wizkid
With a career spanning over a decade, Wizkid continues to shape Afrobeats with his smooth, minimalist sound. His influence remains unmatched, and 2025 is likely to see more groundbreaking projects from him.
