Most Famous 2020s Nigerian pop from the Last 90 Days, updated on Oct 23,2024
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1 . Young Jonn - BahamasYoung Jonn delivers a smooth blend of afrobeats and pop with his 2024 track "Bahamas," which explores themes of love, luxury, and emotional independence. Known for his transition from producer to artist, Young Jonn crafts a laid-back, danceable groove, weaving together electronic elements and traditional African percussion. Sung in English and Nigerian pidgin, the song tells the story of a relationship marked by freedom and escape, capturing the essence of a carefree romance amidst the warmth of a tropical paradise. Genres : R&B, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Edgar Esteves Featured on the album Jiggy Forever 263.36% / -32.72% |
2 . Chris Brown - Hmmm (w/ Davido)A collaboration between Chris Brown and Davido, "Hmmm" highlights themes of luxury, success, and celebrity lifestyle. Produced by Yung Alpha, the track blends Afrobeats and amapiano, alternating between English and Nigerian pidgin. With its vibrant rhythm and opulent lyrics, the song captures the lavish world these artists inhabit, celebrating their journey to stardom. Genres : R&B, Pop, World/Traditional, Hip Hop,r&b, rap, afrobeats, afropop, azontobeats, ghanaian hip hop, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Travis Colbert Featured on the album 11:11 102.34% / -10.32% |
3 . Ruger - Make WayRuger showcases his mastery of afrobeats with "Make Way," a 2024 single that blends the rhythmic vitality of African beats with dancehall influences. Produced by Kukbeats, the song's upbeat tempo drives home Ruger's message of self-confidence and determination to make his mark in the music industry. Incorporating his signature mix of afrobeats and dancehall, Ruger channels a powerful energy, asserting his readiness to carve out space in the competitive world of afrobeats, while staying true to his roots. Genres : R&B, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Fawaz Featured on the album Luv Again 96.43% / -10.35% |
4 . CKay - Wahala (w/ Olamide)CKay and Olamide collaborate on "Wahala," a dynamic 2024 track that blends the new wave of afrobeats with street-savvy rap. The title, which means "trouble" in Nigerian pidgin, sets the tone for the song's exploration of romantic entanglements and life's challenges. CKay, known for his global hit "Love Nwantiti," brings a contemporary edge to the track, while Olamide grounds it in the raw energy of Nigerian street culture, offering a powerful blend of melodic afrobeats and sharp lyrical delivery that speaks to the complexity of modern relationships. Genres : Hip Hop,afro r&b, afrobeats, afropop, azonto, nigerian hip hop, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Ahmed Mosh 95.22% / -8.06% |
5 . Rema - Benin Boys"Benin Boys," a collaboration between Nigerian artists Rema and Shallipopi, released in June 2024, honors their hometown of Benin City. Produced by Yo X, the song blends Afrobeat and trap, celebrating the city's cultural richness and everyday challenges. The music video features iconic Benin landmarks, further reinforcing the artists' pride in their shared heritage. Genres : R&B, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Director K 93.52% / -8.86% |
6 . Fireboy DML - EverydayFireboy DML taps into his signature blend of afrobeats and R&B with "Everyday," a 2024 release from his album Adedamola. With smooth, melodic production, Fireboy reflects on love and desire, blending English and pidgin lyrics to explore the complexities of emotional connection. The song's infectious rhythm and sultry vocals highlight Fireboy's ability to craft heartfelt narratives within the vibrant framework of afrobeats, keeping his sound fresh while staying grounded in his Nigerian roots. Genres : R&B, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Tg Omori Featured on the album Adedamola 93.52% / -8.78% |
7 . Tems - Love Me JejeTems' 2024 release "Love Me JeJe," produced by GuiltyBeatz and Spax, interpolates the 1997 hit by Seyi Sodimu. The song’s Afrobeat-R&B fusion is laced with tender lyrics expressing a desire for unconditional love and loyalty. The phrase "JeJe" means "gently" in Yoruba, highlighting the song's plea for a soft, enduring romance. Genres : R&B, World/Traditional, Pop,afro r&b, afrobeats, alte, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Larisha Paul Featured on the album Born in the Wild 92.10% / -7.87% |
8 . Darkoo - Favourite Girl (w/ Dess Dior)British-Nigerian artist Darkoo’s "Favourite Girl," featuring American rapper Dess Dior, dropped in 2024. Produced by Enzo Fresh and Ricardo Lloyd Johnson, the song mixes British and Nigerian influences with Dess Dior’s American rap style. The lyrics celebrate admiration for a high-status woman, described as an "A-list girl," highlighting her beauty and charisma. Genres : R&B, Pop,afrobeats, afroswing, london rap, nigerian pop, uk hip hop, trap queen The music video is directed by Leon Matthews 82.60% / -8.89% |
9 . Chiké - Egwu"Egwu" is a 2024 release from Nigerian singer-songwriter Chike, featuring the late Mohbad. The song blends Afrobeat and highlife rhythms, with "Egwu" meaning "dance" in Igbo. It took on special significance following Mohbad's tragic passing, transforming into a posthumous tribute. With its infectious beat, the song became both a celebration of life and a melancholic farewell. Genres : ,afrobeats, afropop, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Director Pink 50.02% / -3.57% |
10 . Asake - WaveAsake’s "Wave," featuring British rapper Central Cee, fuses Afrobeats, amapiano, and trap rhythms. Released in 2024, the Magicsticks-produced track embraces a carefree lifestyle, with upbeat lyrics celebrating freedom and joy. The music video, shot in Lagos, features bustling scenes of the city and pays homage to football star Mario Balotelli through Asake's attire. Genres : R&B, Hip Hop, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop, melodic drill, r&drill The music video is directed by Edgar Esteves Featured on the album Lungu Boy 45.69% / -4.19% |
11 . Ayo Maff - DealerAyo Maff and Fireboy DML team up in "Dealer," a 2024 afrobeats collaboration that digs into nightlife and vice. Mixing English and Yoruba lyrics, the song explores themes of indulgence, relationships, and the darker side of nightlife culture. Produced with Fireboy DML's signature smooth vocals, the track reflects the vibrant yet shadowy atmosphere of the afrobeats scene, making it a standout for its raw, nocturnal energy and catchy, laid-back production. Genres : R&B, Electronic, World/Traditional, Pop,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Ocean boy 75.17% / -5.70% |
12 . Beéle - Low Key (w/ Humby)In "Low Key," released in June 2024, Humby, Beéle, Maria Becerra, and Joeboy come together to fuse afrobeats with Latin sounds, creating a cross-cultural track that embodies international love and secrecy. Produced by Humby, the song showcases the distinct musical flavors of Colombia, Argentina, and Nigeria. With lyrics in English and Spanish, the track tells the story of an unexpected, undercover romance, highlighting the global appeal of afrobeats as it meshes with Latin rhythms. Genres : R&B, Pop, Latin,reggaeton colombiano, trap latino, urbano latino, pop argentino, afrobeats, afropop, nigerian pop, 75.03% / -6.37% |
13 . Masicka - Fight For UsMasicka delivers powerful social commentary in "Fight For Us," a track released in 2024 that blends modern dancehall with hip-hop influences. Produced by Dynasty Records, the song emphasizes loyalty, perseverance, and the hardships of relationships, themes that have long been central to Masicka's introspective lyricism. Known for his incisive lyrical style, Masicka taps into the struggles of the streets and personal loyalty, crafting a song that resonates with audiences familiar with both the highs and lows of love and life in his native Jamaica. Genres : R&B, Pop, World/Traditional,dancehall, jamaican dancehall, traphall, afrobeats, afropop, alte, nigerian pop 71.41% / -5.52% |
14 . Kizz Daniel - ShowaKizz Daniel returns with "Showa," a 2024 single that celebrates beauty, confidence, and seduction. Produced by AyZed, the track blends Kizz Daniel's signature afrobeats sound with elements of pop and R&B. With playful lyrics that emphasize self-assurance and female empowerment, the song highlights Kizz Daniel's ability to combine infectious rhythms with universal themes of attraction and allure. Backed by longtime collaborators such as Blaise Beatz, "Showa" underscores Kizz Daniel's enduring presence in the afrobeats scene. Genres : Metal,afrobeats, afropop, azontobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by TG Omori Featured on the album TZA (Thankz Alot) (ep) 54.64% / -3.15% |
15 . Simi - Borrow Me Your Baby (w/ Falz)Simi and Falz reunite in the 2024 single "Borrow Me Your Baby," blending afropop with hip-hop influences to tell a playful story about love and partnership. Known for their past collaborations, the duo's chemistry shines as they trade verses filled with wit and charm. Simi's melodic vocals paired with Falz's sharp lyrical flow create a dynamic back-and-forth, while the track's production features a mix of African rhythms and contemporary pop elements, reflecting the playful nature of their relationship. Genres : R&B, Pop, World/Traditional, Hip Hop,afrobeats, afropop, alte, azontobeats, nigerian pop, nigerian hip hop The music video is directed by Émilie Richard-Froozan Featured on the album Memior of a Sparklemuffin 54.33% / -5.23% |
16 . Tekno - WayoIn Tekno's 2024 release "Wayo," the afropop artist continues to experiment with rhythmic intricacies, producing a song that balances traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary electronic production. Collaborating with ShugaVybz, Tekno digs into the themes of deception and romantic reassurance, offering a smooth ballad that's as catchy as it is emotive. The song's production is rich with percussion and synths, while Tekno's lyrics reassure his lover of his genuine intentions amidst swirling uncertainties. Genres : R&B, Pop, Hip Hop,afrobeats, afropop, nigerian hip hop, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Dammy Twitch 53.46% / -3.83% |
17 . Young Jonn - Big Big Thingse (w/ Kizz Daniel, Seyi Vibez)Young Jonn, Kizz Daniel, and Seyi Vibez join forces in "Big Big Things," a 2024 anthem that celebrates ambition, success, and living large. Produced by Yung Willis, the track seamlessly merges afrobeats and amapiano elements, creating an infectious groove. The song's lyrics focus on the pursuit of greatness, with each artist delivering verses that highlight their drive and determination. This collaboration embodies the celebratory nature of modern afrobeats, blending upbeat rhythms with themes of prosperity. Genres : R&B, Pop, World/Traditional,afrobeats, nigerian pop, afropop, azontobeats 50.96% / -3.32% |
18 . Seyi Vibez - CanaIn his 2023 single "Cana," Seyi Vibez taps into themes of pleasure, ambition, and relaxation. The title, derived from "cannabis," hints at the song's laid-back vibe, as Seyi Vibez blends his distinct melodies with lyrics that explore the highs and lows of life and relationships. With a style that's part entertainer, part preacher, Seyi Vibez combines realism with a touch of escapism, using Nigerian slang and pidgin to root the song in his cultural identity while appealing to a global audience. Genres : ,afrobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Director K Featured on the album NAHAMciaga 50.17% / -2.74% |
19 . Kcee - Big FishKcee rides high with "Big Fish," a 2024 single that showcases his knack for crafting infectious afrobeats hits. Produced by Masterkraft, the track is a celebration of success and dominance in the music industry. With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, "Big Fish" reflects Kcee's journey from his early days in KC Presh to his thriving solo career. The track's production blends high-energy rhythms with Kcee's confident delivery, underscoring his place as one of Nigeria's leading afrobeats artists. Genres : Rock, Pop,afrobeats, afropop, igbo pop, nigerian pop 46.02% / -3.64% |
20 . Ayra Starr - Goodbye [Warm Up] (w/ Asake)In "Goodbye (Warm Up)," Ayra Starr and Asake collaborate for the first time, creating a 2024 afrobeats anthem about empowerment and independence. Produced by P2J, the track sees Ayra Starr assert her strength and confidence in the aftermath of a breakup, rejecting her ex-partner's attempts at reconciliation. Asake's complementary verse adds a male perspective to the narrative, while the production's energetic beats and smooth melodies capture the song's defiant tone, making it a bold statement of self-reliance and emotional freedom. Genres : R&B, World/Traditional, Pop,afrobeats, azontobeats, nigerian pop The music video is directed by Annie Beecy Featured on the album The Year I Turned 21 44.97% / -3.97% |
ABOUT NIGERIAN POPNigerian Pop: Music and WordsNigerian Pop thrives on catchy melodies built around syncopated rhythms and vibrant percussive elements. Traditional instruments like the talking drum coexist with electronic synthesizers and beats, creating a signature sound. The production scene is led by producers such as P2J, Kiddominant, and Sarz. P2J’s influence can be seen in internationally acclaimed projects like Wizkid’s *Made in Lagos*, while Kiddominant crafted the globally recognized hit “Fall” by Davido. These producers shape the genre by blending African rhythms with modern pop sensibilities, driving the evolution of the sound. Lyrically, Nigerian Pop often digs into themes like love, success, celebration, and urban Nigerian culture. Artists draw on local metaphors and colloquial expressions, giving their music a deeply emotional resonance.
Nigerian Pop: Further ReadingA range of websites and platforms focus on promoting and analyzing Nigerian Pop and African music more broadly. Some notable ones include
Nigerian Pop: 10 Record LabelsNigerian Pop is supported by a vibrant network of record labels that nurture talent and promote the genre worldwide. Here are 10 leading labels in Nigerian Pop:
Nigerian Pop and Visual ArtsNigerian Pop is deeply intertwined with fashion and other various forms of visual expression, including painting, sculpture, movies, and television programs. In Fashion, many Nigerian Pop artists are also style icons, collaborating with local and international brands.
Album Art and Visual Culture: Nigerian pop stars often collaborate with visual artists for their album covers and promotional materials, creating bold, colorful designs that echo the aesthetics of pop art. For instance, artists like Laolu Senbanjo, known for his “Afromysterics” style of intricate patterns, have collaborated with musicians like Beyoncé for her *Lemonade* visual album Music Videos as Visual Art: Many Nigerian pop music videos blur the lines between music and visual art. Directors like Meji Alabi and TG Omori integrate elements of surrealism, color theory, and visual storytelling into their productions. Videos like Burna Boy‘s “Monsters You Made” include powerful visuals and sculptures representing political messages, touching upon themes of colonialism and corruption. These videos become an artistic medium, akin to contemporary visual art, with rich symbolism and narrative depth. TV Programs and Movies: Nigerian pop music often appears in the booming Nollywood film industry, where the boundary between music and cinema blurs. Films such as “King of Boys” integrate popular Nigerian music into their storylines, using it to enhance the narrative. Nollywood productions sometimes incorporate visual elements that reflect Nigerian Pop aesthetics—bright colors, exaggerated designs, and vibrant street scenes—which are reminiscent of pop art’s bold visuals. Sculpture and Installations: Although more indirectly, public art installations in Lagos and other Nigerian cities sometimes feature nods to the Nigerian Pop movement. Sculptors and installation artists like Victor Ehikhamenor, whose work blends contemporary art with traditional Nigerian motifs, create pieces that are influenced by the same cultural currents as Nigerian Pop. These installations celebrate Nigerian identity in ways that parallel the messaging in Nigerian pop music. TV Shows & Documentaries: Documentaries and TV series like “Afrobeats: The Backstory” explore the evolution of Nigerian music, offering a rich visual history of the genre. These shows present not just the music, but the surrounding visual culture, from fashion to visual art, which accompanies the rise of Nigerian Pop. These productions often feature vibrant cityscapes and Nigerian Pop-inspired imagery, blending visual storytelling with the music. In this way, Nigerian pop music influences a range of visual art forms, from album design and music video production to films and public art, making the connection between Nigerian Pop and visual/pop art a vibrant and dynamic one. |
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