Afrobeats Artists Shaping the Scene

We're very much living in the era of Afrobeats and as a music lover, it’s not uncommon to wonder who the trending artists of this growing genre you probably just discovered are.

Below, I’ve rounded up seven Afrobeats artists (from Nigeria) currently heating up the genre at home and abroad. This list is based on various metrics combined, including frequency in local top 10 and global charts. In no particular order, let's get into the list.

Wizkid

With more that 10 years in the music game, Wizkid has grown from local hitmaker to global hit maker after being one of the first Afrobeats artists of the last decade to score international features. Some of his top songs include: Ojuelegba, Essence, Come Closer.

Burna Boy

Self proclaimed African Giant Burna Boy is well known for his upbeat music that captures pan Africanism, hints of activism as well as an all round jolly good feel. Some of his top songs include: Ye, Last Last, Location.

Davido

Popularly known as "OBO," "baddest," Davido's artistry is one that is filled with melodies and harmonies that are not only interesting to listen to but catchy enough to dance to. Some of his top songs include: If, Risky, Blow my mind.

Tems

Tems' rise to fame is laced with features and collaborations which earned her, her first Grammy as well as a record being the first Nigerian artist to be nominated for an Academy Award. Some of her top songs include: Free mind, Essence, wait for u.

Rema

Straight out of Benin, Rema is one artist with a mouth for catchy lyrics and a knack for sweet melodies. Some of his top songs include: Calm Down, Dumebi, Soundgasm.

Fireboy DML

Fireboy is one of the first newcomers at the time to be unveiled with an album without features which was regarded as ballsy. Ever since then he has collaborated with other artists and proven that each release is an insight into his creativity and zest. Some of his top songs include: Peru, Bandana, Playboy.

Omah Lay

Omah Lay’s music style is just the icing on the cake. He is a breath of fresh air in the scene with melancholy melodies that are heavy on local lambas. Few tracks and you're thinking, “what's happening with him this time?”  Some of his top songs include: Attention, Soso, Understand.