Nigerian AfroBeat Artists

List of Top Nigerian Afro pop Artists

In the world of music, Nigerian Afro pop artists have been taken over, becoming international stars with a reach that stretches across the globe. Dominating music in Africa, the U.S., the U.K., and dozens of other places around the world, Nigeria Afrobeat artists have become something new for a once stagnant music industry of the same pop stars and singers.

Constantly headlining and continuous press coverage, Nigeria’s Afropop and Afrobeat scene has led the country to gain global recognition and shed light to the world of another side and another culture of Africa’s largest country.

While throughout time, there have been other Nigerian genres, like Jùjú music, which was pioneered by King Sunny Adé, and Fuji music, which was led by artists like Ayinde Barrister and Obesere, but Afropop and Afrobeat, which was originally popularized by Fela Kuti, have truly casted a shadow over other styles and genres of African music.

As of now, Nigerian Afro pop artists have become global sensations, leading the music industry as dozens of artists have surpassed local success and have become international stars, often linking with artists like Beyonce, Drake, Ed Sheeran, Nicki Minaj, Future, Selena Gomez, and many others. Consisting of numerous stars, the growing music scene of Nigerian Afrobeat artists has only opened the doors for more African stars to emerge.

Top 40 Nigerian Afro pop Artists

1. Burna Boy

Burna Boy rose to prominence with his unique fusion of Afrobeat, Afropop, reggae, and dancehall, which he effortlessly blends with his captivating presence in music. With a deep connection to his Nigerian roots, often addressing themes of African pride, cultural heritage, and the struggles faced by the continent, his energy, lyrics, and catchy beats has led to a massive international following and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades across the globe.

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2. Rema 

Rema has rapidly risen to the top of the Nigerian Afrobeats scene with his unique sound and youthful energy. Rema burst onto the scene in 2019 with his self-titled debut EP, which featured the breakout hit “Dumebi.” His music can be characterized by its catchy melodies and his distinctive flow. Despite his young age, Rema has been recognized by peers and fans from around the world for his talent. As of now, he continues to push boundaries and establish himself as one of the most exciting artists in Nigeria.

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3. Wizkid 

Wizkid has achieved remarkable success both within Africa and on the international stage. He first gained recognition with his debut album “Superstar” in 2011, which spawned hit singles like “Holla at Your Boy” and “Don’t Dull.” Wizkid’s charismatic approach and ability to connect with his audience have made him a beloved figure. Long after his debut, he has collaborated with numerous renowned artists, both within Africa and internationally, including Drake and Beyoncé, which he earned a Grammy with for the hit song “Brown Skin Girl.”

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4. Davido

Davido is a highly influential Nigerian Afrobeat artist who has made a significant impact on the Nigerian and global music scene. He can be viewed as the first face of the long list of Nigerian Afro pop artists, as the genre was expanding and gaining popularity throughout the world. With his impressive discography, magnetic stage presence, and global recognition, Davido will always be viewed as a trailblazer and one of Nigeria’s most celebrated artists.

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5. CKay

CKay first rose to fame with his hit single “Love Nwantiti” in 2019, which receieved significant attention and propelled him into the spotlight as one of the top rising Nigerian Afro pop artists. Since, he has infused melodies, lyrics, and rhythms with a blend of Afrobeat, Afropop, and contemporary R&B. In addition to his singing and songwriting skills, CKay is also an accomplished producer. With his smooth vocals, creative songwriting, and production prowess, CKay has established himself as a star in the Nigerian music industry.

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6. Tiwa Savage 

Tiwa Savage, the leading queen of Nigerian Afrobeat artists, has made an indelible mark on the music industry. She began her music career as a backup vocalist for several renowned artists before becoming of her own as a solo artist. Tiwa Savage’s music often explores themes of love, empowerment, and personal experiences, resonating with a diverse audience. She has produced hit songs like “All Over,” “Ma Lo,” “Lova Lova,” “Somebody’s Son” with Brandy, “Eminade,” and her recent hit “Loaded,” while collaborating with international artists such as Beyoncé, Coldplay, and Sam Smith.

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7. Kizz Daniel 

Kizz Daniel first gained recognition as a Nigerian Afro pop artist with his hit single “Woju” in 2014, which marked the beginning of his successful career. Kizz Daniel’s smooth vocals and ability to deliver infectious tunes have earned him a loyal fan base both within Nigeria and across Africa. He has released several chart-topping singles, including “Buga,” “Cough,” “One Ticket” with Davido, “Madu,” and “Nesesari,” which have garnered millions of views and streams.

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8. Tems

Tems, known for her soulful voice and introspective music, brings a style of music that blends R&B, neo-soul, and Afro-fusion, resulting in a captivating sound. Her soothing vocals and emotive delivery have garnered comparisons to iconic artists such as Erykah Badu and Sade. Tems gained widespread recognition with her breakout hit single “Mr Rebel” in 2018, and she has since released a string of critically acclaimed songs like “Crazy Tings,” “Try Me,” and “Damages.” Tems’ rise to prominence has been marked by collaborations with notable artists such as Wizkid, Future, Brent Faiyaz and Drake.

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9. Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr is a rising Nigerian Afro pop artist who burst onto the music scene with her debut self-titled EP in 2021. She has since quickly captured the attention of listeners with her unique sound and refreshing approach to music. Ayra’s music often touches on themes of self-discovery, love, and personal growth, resonating with a younger generation of listeners. With a brief time in the industry, Ayra Starr has already produced several popular hits, like “Rush,” “Bloody Samaritan,” and “Sability,” while collaborating with top Nigerian and international artists.

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10. Fireboy DML

Fireboy DML gained widespread fame with his breakout single “Jealous” in 2018, which propelled him into the limelight of Nigerian Afrobeat artists. His debut album, Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps, released in 2019, featured hits like “King” and “Scatter,” but his most popular tracks have been “Peru” with Ed Sheeran, “Bandana,” and “Tattoo,” with the 2022 album Playboy being one of the biggest projects of the year.

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11. Omah Lay

Omah Lay  quickly gained attention with his breakthrough single “Bad Influence” in 2020. His music blends elements of Afrobeat, R&B, and pop, which accompanies smooth vocals, infectious beats, and introspective lyrics.  His debut EP, Get Layd, garnered widespread acclaim and featured hit tracks like “You” and “Damn,” but his debut album, 2022’s Boy Alone led to a rise in popularity, solidifying his place as one of Nigerian Afrobeat artists most promising and sought-after.

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12. Asake

Asake began his music career by releasing covers and freestyles on social media platforms, which helped him receive attention and begin to build a dedicated fan base. Asake’s distinctive voice and dynamic delivery have set him apart in the industry. He gained significant recognition with his breakout single “Mr Money” in 2020, which became a viral sensation. Since then, he has released a series of hit songs, including “Don’t Hype Me” and “Yan Yan,” further establishing himself as a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. 

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13. Yemi Alade 

Yemi Alade has become a prominent figure in the Nigerian music industry. She came into the light with her hit single “Johnny” in 2013, which became an international anthem and solidified her position as one of Africa’s leading female artists. With her impressive discography and chart-topping albums like Mama Africa and Woman of Steel, Yemi Alade has amassed a dedicated fan base and received numerous awards and accolades. 

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14. Olamide 

Olamide is a highly influential Nigerian artist, rapper, and songwriter who has made a significant impact, fusing Afrobeat, hip-hop, and R&B. He first came to people’s attention with his debut single “Eni Duro” in 2010 and has since released numerous hit songs, including “Infinity,” “Wo!!,” “Montigbana,” “Bobo,” and “Science Student.” 

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15. Tekno 

Tekno broke onto the scene with hit single “Duro” in 2015, which catapulted him into the spotlight of Nigerian Afrobeat artists. Tekno’s ability to fuse traditional African sounds with contemporary pop elements has contributed to his unique sound and widespread appeal. He has released several chart-topping singles, including “Pana,” “Duro,” “Diana,” “Where,” “Rara,” “Go,” and “Skeletun,” which have garnered millions of views and streams.

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16. JoeBoy 

JoeBoy blends Afropop and R&B to bring Nigeria a one of a kind sound. He initially gained prominence with his breakout single “Baby” in 2019. Since then, he has released a string of hit songs, including “Sip,” “Show Me,” “Door,” and “Lonley,” solidifying his status as one of the fastest-rising Nigerian Afro pop artists. JoeBoy’s ability to create captivating melodies and tell stories of love and relationships has endeared him to a growing fan base.

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17. Flavour 

Flavour N’abania, popularly known as Flavour, is a highly versatile Nigerian artist, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has achieved great success. His music style encompasses a diverse range of genres, including Afrobeat, hip-hop, and rhythm and blues. Flavour’s distinct voice and ability to effortlessly blend different musical elements have made him a household name both in Nigeria and across Africa, especially after debuting with the hit single “Nwa Baby” in 2005.

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18. Adekunle Gold 

Adekunle Gold first stood out with the leading son “Sade” in 2015, which showcased his unique sound and his gifted abilities. With his effortless vocals, poetic lyrics, and a blend of traditional and modern sounds, he has become a major player Nigerian music industry. His albums, including Gold, Catch Me If You Can and About 30, have received critical acclaim, bringing a consistent delivery of quality music.

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19. Simi 

Simi is a highly talented singer and songwriter known for her soulful melodies, captivating lyrics, and a soothing delivery. Simi was first introduced with her breakout single “Tiff” in 2014. She has since released successful albums and hit songs, including “Jamb Question,” “By You,” “Jericho,” “Woman,” and “Duduke,” which became an anthem during pregnancy announcements.

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20. Patoranking 

Patoranking, known for his infectious dancehall and reggae-infused music, his music style reflects his passion for the two genres, as well as Afrobeat. His unique sound and versatile vocals have garnered him a strong fan base since his arrival with the hit single “Alubarika” in 2013. Since, he has released a string of successful songs, including “Girlie O,” “My Woman, My Everything,” “No Kissing Baby,” “Suh Different,” “Love You Die,” and “Abule.” 

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21. Ruger

Ruger burst onto the music scene in 2021 with his debut single “One Shirt,” featuring Rema and D’Prince. Since, he has been showcasing his versatility and ability to navigate through different genres and styles. Ruger’s songs often carry a vibe that makes him a standout among emerging Nigerian Afrobeat artists. Ruger’s talent, determination, and distinct sound have quickly carved out himself a path in the Nigerian music industry.

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22. Victony

Nigerian Afrobeat artist Victony has taken the industry by storm, showcasing his exceptional talent and unique sound. This young artist’s innate ability to fuse diverse musical influences allows him to create a distinct style. Since his debut in 2019, Victony’s rise to stardom has been meteoric, as he continues to make waves in the throughout Africa and Europe. 

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23. BNXN 

BNXN has been making waves with his unique blend of traditional African rhythms and contemporary global sounds. With his exceptional talent, BNXN has managed to captivate audiences and contribute significantly to the growth of Afrobeat on the international stage. His discography, including projects like 24HRS in Lagos City, Sorry I’m Late, and Bad Since ’97, showcases a diverse range of musical styles and blendings.

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24. Naira Marley 

Naira Marley is a highly controversial and influential Nigerian artist, rapper, and songwriter whose music style can be described as a blend of Afrobeat, hip-hop, and street-influenced sounds. With the viral hit single “Issa Goal” in 2017 and has built a career of pushing boundaries with his music, often addressing topics such as street life, social vices, and societal norms, all while maintaining a strong presence in the Nigerian music scene.

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25. Mr Eazi

Mr Eazi rose to prominence with his very first major track, “Skin Tight,” released in 2015 and led to a string of successful songs and albums. His music often reflects his experiences as an African in the diaspora, addressing themes of love, identity, and cultural pride. With his distinct sound and delivery, he has carved out a niche for himself in the music industry and has collaborated with both African and international artists.

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26. Teni

Teni is a talented Nigerian artist, singer, and songwriter known for her vibrant personality, powerful vocals, and contagious energy. Her breakout single “Fargin” in 2017 has only led to a series of hit songs that have solidified her position as one of Nigeria’s leading female artists. Teni’s music often carries a joyful and relatable vibe, and her lyrics touch on love, relationships, and everyday experiences, earning her numerous accolades for her contributions to the Afro-pop genre.

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27. Mayorkun 

Mayorkun, who was subsequently signed to Davido’s record label, DMW, and released his debut single “Eleko” in 2016, which became an instant hit. Following his debut, he has released several successful singles and albums, including “Mama,” “Che Che,” and “Geng,” which have received critical acclaim and commercial success. 

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28. SkiiBii 

SkiiBii’s music style can be described as a blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and contemporary pop. He gained prominence with his hit single “Sampu” in 2015 and has since released a series of successful songs that have solidified his presence in the Nigerian music industry. SkiiBii has collaborated with notable artists and released chart-topping tracks, including “Sensima” featuring Reekado Banks, “Somebody,” “Omaema,” and “Ah Skiibii.”

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29. Zinoleesky

Zinoleesky rose to prominence with his breakout single “Mapariwo” in 2020, which he received massive attention and solidified his place as one of the next up Nigerian Afro pop artists. He has since released a series of successful songs, including “Many Things,” “YanYanYan,” and “Personal,” showcasing his ability to craft catchy hooks and relatable lyrics. 

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30. Wande Coal

Wande Coal gained prominence as a member of the Mo’ Hits Records collective, where he showcased his talent on hit songs such as “Ololufe” and “You Bad.” He went on to launch his solo career and released his debut album Mushin To Mo’Hits in 2009, which spawned popular tracks like “Bumper to Bumper” and “Taboo.”  With his consistent string of hits and collaborations with both Nigerian and international artists, Wande Coal has established himself as one of the most respected Nigerian Afrobeat artists in the industry.

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31. Young Jonn  

Young Jonn is a singer, songwriter, and record producer who is currently signed to Chocolate City Music. He has gained recognition for his hit singles like “Dada” and the remix with Davido. He has been ranked as one of the top music producers in Nigeria and has received nominations for Producer of the Year at various awards shows. In addition to his production work, Young Jonn is now transitioning into singing and is set to release his Love Is Not Enough (L.I.N.E) EP.

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32. L.A.X  

L.A.X initially started his career as a rapper and was a part of the group called Flyboiz. In 2013, L.A.X signed a major-label deal with Starboy Entertainment. One of his breakthrough moments came with the song “Caro,” a collaboration with Wizkid that led to several accolades. L.A.X’s latest album, titled Zaza Vibes, features popular hits like “Go Low” and “Gobe Remix.” Alongside albums like Zaza Vibes and Rasaking, L.A.X has also released numerous singles in 2021, including “Falling” and “PEPE.” With his versatile sound and ongoing musical endeavors, L.A.X continues to make waves within the Nigerian music industry.

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33. Timaya

Timaya gained prominence as Nigerian Afro Pop artist with his breakout single “Dem Mama” in 2005. Following his arrival, Timaya’s music often carries a positive and uplifting message, celebrating life, perseverance, and the hustle. His impressive discography includes hits like “Ukwu,” “Bum Bum,” and “Balance,” which have solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s leading artists.

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34. Pheelz 

Phillip Kayode Moses, popularly known as Pheelz, has a career spanning over a decade, collaborating with numerous artists, including Olamide and Tiwa Savage. He gained recognition in 2012 for his work on Olamide’s singles and has since been nominated for and won awards for his impressive production skills. Pheelz’s musical versatility is evident in his ability to blend genres such as Afropop, Afrobeats, African hip hop, jazz, hip hop, and R&B. In 2021, he released his debut EP titled “Hear Me Out,” which further showcased his artistry. The following year, Pheelz’s international breakthrough came with the release of his Afro-fusion hit song “Finesse.”

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35. Bella Shmurda

Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Bella Shmurda gained fame with his breakout single “Vision 2020” in 2019, which propelled him into the limelight. His music style can be described as a fusion of Afrobeat, Afropop, and street-inspired sounds. He seamlessly blends his captivating vocals with energetic deliveries, resulting in an authentic and distinct sound. Some of his most notable works have been tracks like “Cash App,” “Philo,” “Rush,” and several more.

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36. Reekado Banks 

Reekado Banks, who is known for his smooth vocals and versatile music style, was first brought to everyone’s attention as one of the signees of the Mavin Records. He came into the spotlight with his breakout single “Katapot” in 2015, followed by the chart-topping hit “Sugar Baby.” A blend of Afrobeat, Afropop, and R&B, his versatility as an artist is evident, always showcasing his dynamic skills. Reekado Banks has collaborated with several prominent artists and released successful tracks such as “Easy (Jeje),” “Like” featuring Tiwa Savage and Fiokee, and “Rora.”

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37. Zlatan

Zlatan is a highly energetic and talented Nigerian Afrobeat artist, rapper, and songwriter known for his vibrant personality and style. His breakout was the single “Zanku (Legwork)” in 2018, which sparked a dance craze and became an anthem across Nigeria. Zlatan’s music is characterized by a distinctive delivery that blends Yoruba and English lyrics. He often addresses street life, social issues, and personal experiences in his songs, a string of successful tracks like “This Year,” “Bolanle,” and “Cho Cho.”

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38. Runtown

Known for the hit single “Gallardo” in 2014, featuring Davido, Runtown has been captivating listeners since his debut into success. Often carry an uplifting and melodic vibe, with a combination of Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall, Runtown has released several successful tracks, including “Mad Over You,” “Energy,” and “For Life,” which have garnered international recognition.

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39. Seyi Vibez 

Seyi Vibez first gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough single “Chance (Na Ham).” This led to his popularity skyrocketing in 2021, following the release of his album No Seyi No Vibez and his hit single “Godsent.” In 2022, Seyi Vibez continued to make waves with the release of his second studio album Billion Dollar Baby. Adding to his success, he released his debut EP, “Memory Card” in 2023, which achieved over 6 million streams in its first week. From his collaboration with Zlatan on “Let There Be Light” to his hit song “Alaska,” Seyi Vibez has proven he is here to stay.

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40. Lojay  

Lojay made his mark with the song “Monalisa,” featuring Chris Brown and Sarz, which charted on the U.S. charts and became the most played Afrobeats song on Shazam. He has been pursuing music professionally since 2016 and released his debut EP, Midnight Vibes, in 2017. In 2021, he released the singles “Tonongo” and “Monalisa” on the duet EP LV N ATTN with producer Sarz, earning him several nominations. March of 2023 marked the release of his second solo EP, Gangster Romantic, further showcasing his talent and potential as an artist.

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Honorable Mention Nigeria Afropop Artists:

– Crayon Youtube: Crayon and Instagram: @Crayon

– Bad Boy Timz Youtube: Bad Boy Timz and Instagram: @Bad Boy Timz

– 1da Banton Youtube: 1da Banton and Instagram: @1da Banton

– Magixx Youtube: Magixx and Instagram: @Magixx

– Lil Kesh Youtube: Lil Kesh and Instagram: @Lil Kesh

– Rexxie Youtube: Rexxie and Instagram: @Rexxie

– Khaid Youtube: Khaid and Instagram: @Khaid

– Niniola Youtube: Niniola and Instagram: @Niniola

– Majeeed Youtube: Majeeed and Instagram: @Majeeed

– Lyta Youtube: Lyta and Instagram: @Lyta

– Victor AD Youtube: Victor AD and Instagram: @Victor AD

– Peruzzi Youtube: Peruzzi and Instagram: @Peruzzi

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3 Top 20 Nigerian Actresses

4 Top Male Dancehall Artists

5 Top Ghana Afrobeat Artists

*Unofficial Order. The more popular artists that have a combination of the most followers, streams, views, and most recent releases are near the top.

*If any artists are missing from the list email media@kulturevulturez.com