10 Rising Nigeria Musicians Redefining Afrobeat in 2024

Let me introduce you to one of the most fascinating young voices in Nigeria's music scene. At just 18 years old, Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known as Qing Madi, has already carved out a unique space in the industry.

Qing Madi's Musical Journey

I've watched many young artists emerge, but Qing Madi's story stands out. Starting her musical journey at age 7 in Benin City, she wasn't just another church choir singer - she was already crafting her own path. What really caught my attention was her early role as a ghostwriter for established artists like Skales, Iyanya, and Larry Gaaga. "I used to write for other people before I started putting out my own music," she shared in an interview, revealing a music maturity beyond her years.

Qing Madi's Signature Sound

Another compelling thing about Qing Madi is her distinctive approach to music. She's created what she calls "Afro-RnB" - a fresh fusion of RnB and afrobeats that's turning heads in the industry. Her influences range from Kendrick Lamar to traditional Nigerian sounds, creating a musical tapestry that's uniquely her own.

Qing Madi's Notable Releases

The breakthrough came when her single "See Finish" went viral on TikTok in 2022. But it was her collaboration with BNXN on "Ole" that really set the industry ablaze, reaching:

• #1 on Uganda's Apple Music charts
• #3 on Nigeria's Apple Music charts
• #16 on the Official Afrobeats Chart

Her self-titled EP, released in November 2023, showcases her evolution as an artist. The deluxe edition brought exciting collaborations, including tracks with Kizz Daniel and American artist Chlöe Bailey. What fascinates me most is how she recorded some of these songs, like "Vision," when she was just 14 years old.

In January 2024, Apple Music recognized her potential by inducting her into their Rising Class of 2024, cementing her position as one of Nigeria's most promising young musicians.

From the vibrant streets of Ughelli North, Delta State comes a voice that's reshaping Nigeria's Afrobeats sound. I've been following DC Poundzy, born Amada Goodness, and I can tell you - this artist brings something special to the table.

DC Poundzy's Background

I find DC Poundzy's origin story particularly compelling. Like many great artists, his journey began in the church, where he honed his skills playing keyboard and developing his vocal talents. What strikes me most is how he made a conscious decision to stop performing covers and start creating his own music, inspired by watching the success of Wizkid.

DC Poundzy's Musical Style

What I've noticed about DC Poundzy's approach is his remarkable ability to blend contemporary sounds with traditional African rhythms. His music isn't just about creating catchy tunes - it's about capturing the essence of Nigerian culture. The way he infuses the African music industry with a lively and contagious spirit caught my attention.

His latest releases showcase this evolution:

• "Seven Wonders" (2024) - His most recent single
• "DISTURBING" featuring Hotkid (2023)
• "Knocking" (2023)

DC Poundzy's Career Highlights

I've watched DC Poundzy's determination shine through in his work. He describes himself as a "determined and zealous artist who is always ready to take over any stage in the world". His passion for music isn't just about entertainment - it's about expression. "As an artist, I see music as a way of expressing my inner thoughts," he once shared.

What's particularly impressive is how his infectious rhythms and memorable hooks have earned him a devoted following both in Nigeria and internationally. His music celebrates African identity while bridging cultural gaps, making him one of the most promising voices in contemporary Afrobeats.

The way DC Poundzy sees music as a tool for global influence resonates with me. "I see music as passion, and I want to influence the world through my music," he states. This vision, combined with his undeniable talent, positions him as a significant contributor to the evolving dynamics of African music.

I've encountered many emerging Nigerian musicians, but few have captured my attention quite like Michael Ajuma Attah, known professionally as Llona. His story represents a fascinating evolution in Nigeria Afrobeats industry.

Llona's Rise to Fame

What strikes me most about Llona's journey is his remarkable transformation. He emerged from the streets of Kano with raw talent and determination. I've watched his evolution from a battle rapper known as TooClassiq to the soulful voice we know today. His transition wasn't just about changing names - it was about finding his authentic voice in Nigeria's competitive music industry.

Llona's Genre-Blending Approach

I'm particularly impressed by how Llona has carved out his own niche in the afrobeats scene. His music, which he calls "homeless music," blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary production methods. What sets him apart is his fearless approach to mental health themes in his lyrics, something rarely addressed in Nigerian pop music. His partnership with Mentally Aware Nigeria to provide free therapy sessions shows his commitment to using his platform for more than just entertainment.

Llona's Breakthrough Moments

The release of his debut album 'Homeless' marked a defining moment in his career. Here's what caught my attention:

• The album peaked at #11 on the Official Top 100 Albums TurnTable charts in Nigeria
• His single 'Cold War' featuring Fave debuted at #97 on the official TurnTable Nigeria Top 100 chart
• The 12-track masterpiece includes collaborations with artists like Bella Shmurda

Another compelling thing about Llona's success is how he's maintained his authenticity throughout his rise. "I want people to know that I'm not perfect and have never wanted to be perfect," he once shared. This vulnerability, combined with his innovative sound, positions him as one of the most intriguing voices in contemporary Nigerian music.

Diving into Port Harcourt, I discovered a good sound that is in musical progress. Nezaboy, professionally known as Nezaboy was born on February 14, 2002. He is a versatile artist who has become one of the most intriguing voices in Nigeria's evolving music industry.

NezaBoy's Musical Evolution

I've followed Nezaboy's journey since he signed with JTUNESWORLDWIDE in 2019, watching him build an impressive catalog of over 300 unreleased tracks. His evolution has been remarkable, from releasing his debut single "Boogie Man" in 2021 to dropping compelling compilations like "Wagwan Teelan" (2022) and "Badderzone" (2023). What truly excites me is his latest milestone - the release of "THE ULA-OKOBO BOY" EP in September 2024, distributed by Sony Music.

NezaBoy's Versatile Style

What sets Nezaboy apart, in my observation, is his extraordinary ability to traverse multiple musical genres. His sound defies simple categorization, seamlessly blending:

• Afro-beats and Afro fusion as his primary sounds
• Hip-hop influences
• R&B elements
• Traditional African rhythms

The success of "Badder Zone" propelled him to #44 on Boomplay, while also securing spots on prestigious playlists across Spotify, Apple Music, and iTunes. I've watched his streaming numbers soar to over 1.5 million across all platforms, a testament to his growing influence.

NezaBoy's Impact on Afrobeats

Through my analysis of the current Afrobeats scene, I've noticed how Nezaboy is reshaping the genre's boundaries. His latest EP, "THE ULA-OKOBO BOY," features seven distinct tracks that showcase his evolution as an artist. The project includes standout tracks like "Jaye," "Mayami," and "Battle Field," each demonstrating his ability to craft compelling narratives through music.

What I find most impressive is his recognition as one of the Top 10 Rising Artists to Watch Out For in 2024 by the Guardian Newspaper. This acknowledgment isn't just about his current success - it's about his potential to influence the future direction of Nigerian music.

Among Nigeria's emerging voices, David Azuma, better known as Big Boi Tee is a rising voice in Afrobeats that cannot be ignored. His journey from the church to afrobeats innovator exemplifies the evolving nature of Nigerian music.

Big Boi Tee's Artistic Development

I've traced Big Boi Tee's musical roots to his early days as a church chorister and drummer, where he first developed his distinctive approach to performance. What fascinates me is how he transformed from being known as "T sharp" to earning his current moniker from street admirers and music lovers. His artistic foundation was shaped by an impressive range of influences, from P-Square to Burna Boy, creating a unique fusion of afro-pop and afrobeats sounds.

Big Boi Tee's Musical Projects

The year 2023 marked a significant milestone with the release of his debut EP "Love, Space & Time". I've watched his catalog grow impressively, with notable releases including:

• "With You Still" featuring Sri Ah$son (2024)
• "Flamers" - a vibrant, upbeat Afrobeat single
• "Holy Man" remix featuring Konzi
• "Chiburu Oma"

What strikes me most about Big Boi Tee's work is his ability to craft infectious melodies and catchy lyrics. His music has gained particular traction in Turkey and other parts of Europe, showcasing his international appeal.

Big Boi Tee's Future Plans

I'm particularly excited about Big Boi Tee's trajectory in 2024. His recent collaboration with Sri Ah$son on "With You Still" signals his continued evolution. The artist has been clear about his commitment to delivering consistently high-quality music, stating "there is no bad song in my cabinet". His creative process draws inspiration from his environment, mood, and loved ones, suggesting we can expect more innovative sounds in the future.

Another special thing about Big Boi Tee is how he harnesses positive energy in his music, using it as a vehicle to help listeners navigate life's challenges. His mother's encouragement played a crucial role in his pursuit of a music career, and this personal touch resonates throughout his work.

Stepping into Lagos's vibrant music scene, I've discovered an artist who embodies the perfect balance between light and dark in Nigerian music. At just 19, Okereke Blessed Jordan, known professionally as Yarden, brings a fascinating duality to afrobeat sound.

Yarden's Musical Background

I've learned that Yarden's musical roots run deep in Lagos's entertainment scene. Growing up as the oldest of three children, he was surrounded by music - his father was a DJ-turned-banker who hosted regular music jams at home. This early exposure shaped his artistic journey, leading him from writing songs for church choirs to crafting his own unique sound.

Yarden's Unique Sound

What sets Yarden apart is his intriguing concept of "split personality" in music. I've noticed how he masterfully balances contrasting elements - light and darkness, happiness and sadness - creating what his fans call "music with a soul". His sound draws inspiration from vintage classics, particularly Michael Jackson, while incorporating influences from contemporary artists like Kendrick Lamar and The Weeknd.

Yarden's Notable Achievements

Since signing with Etins Records, Yarden's rise has been meteoric. His breakthrough single "Wetin" has achieved remarkable success:

• Amassed 56 million global streams
• Generated over 400,000 Shazams
• Attracts approximately 100,000 daily streams

His debut EP "The One Who Descends" (named after the Hebrew meaning of his name) showcases his evolution as an artist. The project, which took two years to complete, features only two carefully chosen collaborations with friends, demonstrating his commitment to authentic artistic expression. Recently signed to 0207 Def Jam, I'm watching as Yarden positions himself for global musical dominance.

Deep in the heart of Anambra, I discovered another musical innovator redefining Nigerian music's boundaries. Chukwuma Chinaza Ferdinand, who performs as Shine TTW, brings something fresh to the contemporary Afrobeat scene.

Shine TTW's Origin Story

I've traced Shine TTW's musical roots to a creative household where his father worked as a DJ. Growing up in Anambra, he quickly earned recognition as the "entertainment student" in secondary school. By 2018, Shine TTW made the bold decision to pursue music full-time, a choice that would prove transformative for Nigerian music.

Shine TTW's Musical Identity

What sets Shine TTW apart is his pioneering concept of "Afro-Sentio" - a unique fusion that transcends traditional genre boundaries. "Sentio," as he explains, comes from Latin, meaning "to feel, perceive, think, experience". I've observed how this innovative approach allows him to create music that mirrors specific emotions and experiences for his listeners.

His creative process fascinates me, particularly how he draws from:

• Traditional songs from his hometown
• Classic Nigerian records
• Contemporary global influences

Shine TTW's Career Milestones

I've closely followed Shine TTW's remarkable music career. His debut single, "No Religion", in 2022, marked his arrival on the scene. The release of his seven-track EP "The Chosen One" in June 2024 showcased his evolution as an artist. What I find most impressive is his recent recognition by Apple Music's Up Next program, a platform that has launched many international stars.

His journey from Anambra to Lagos in 2018 wasn't just a geographical move - it was a strategic step toward realizing his global ambitions. "Lagos was where I defined my sound," he shared, and I couldn't agree more. His music now serves as a bridge between traditional Nigerian heritage and contemporary global sounds, earning him recognition as one of the most promising voices in modern Afro beats.

In the bustling streets of Ijebu North, Ogun state, I discovered a musical rebel who's challenging the status quo of Nigerian music. Ademuyiwa Oluwatobi Christiana, who performs as Raebel, represents a bold new direction in the country's evolving soundscape.

Raebel's Musical Influences

What fascinates me about Raebel's journey is her strong Christian foundation, which continues to shape her artistic vision. I've observed how she seamlessly blends this spiritual background with contemporary influences, particularly drawing inspiration from global icons like Rihanna and leading Nigerian industry figures. Her musical roots run deep, and I'm impressed by how she's maintained her faith while pursuing her artistic dreams.

Raebel's Distinctive Style

I've been particularly struck by Raebel's self-branded "Raebellious" sound, a unique fusion that sets her apart in Nigeria's music scene. Her approach combines:

• Alternative R&B and Neo-soul elements
• Reggae and dancehall rhythms
• Traditional Nigerian flavors

What I find most compelling is her fearless approach to authenticity. "I am not afraid of being seen as different," she declares, and this boldness shines through in every track. Her music isn't just about entertainment; it's about inspiring self-belief and encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness.

Raebel's Breakthrough Moments

I've watched Raebel's meteoric rise since her debut single "Miniskirt" captured the industry's attention. The song became:

• A TikTok influencer favorite
• A radio anthem
• A dance floor sensation

The track's success wasn't just about catchy beats - it carried a powerful message about self-acceptance and defying societal norms. Working with acclaimed video director TG Omori, who became her Creative Director, Raebel elevated her visual esthetic to match her sonic innovation.

What excites me most about Raebel is her clear vision for the future. "The industry is very competitive, you've got to be a thousand percent every time," she acknowledges. With her upcoming EP and album in simultaneous development, I'm watching as this young artist continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in Nigerian music.

Watching the evolution of street-hop infused with Afrobeats in Nigeria, I've been captivated by Timileyin Sulaimon, better known as TML Vibez, whose raw talent and authentic sound are reshaping the genre's landscape.

TML Vibez's Background

I've followed TML Vibez's journey since he emerged from the vibrant Nigerian music scene. What strikes me most is his early start - beginning his musical journey at just 12-13 years old, posting freestyles online and tagging established artists. His signing to Vibez Inc., owned by established star Seyi Vibez, marked a turning point in his career. TML Vibez's passion for music stems from nature and his surroundings, creating an authentic connection with his audience.

TML Vibez's Musical Direction

What fascinates me about TML Vibez is his distinctive approach to street-hop. His latest project, 'Pawon Boy Vol 1', showcases his ability to float across multiple genres. I've observed his masterful blend of:

• Fuji flows restructured with rap delivery
• Hip-hop influences merged with Afropop
• Street Soul elements that resonate with listeners

His collaboration with DJ 4Kerty, one of Street Music's most famous ambassadors, demonstrates his commitment to advancing the genre while maintaining its authentic roots.

TML Vibez's Career Progress

Since his breakthrough with "Goated" featuring Seyi Vibez, I've watched TML Vibez's career soar to new heights. His debut EP "Timileyin" climbed to the top three on the Apple Music album chart, featuring standout tracks like "Intro (Mohbad)", "Bandana", "365 Days", and "Duro". What impresses me most is his prolific output - he's already delivered three EPs (Timileyin, Timileyin 2.0 & Xin Mao) under Dapper Music & Entertainment.

Through his music, TML Vibez shows the making of a capable Street hop star, crafting a unique path through music that echoes the yearning of a new generation. His estimated net worth of USD 10,000 (approximately 15,144,200 Nigerian Naira) reflects his growing influence in the industry. When he said in an interview, "I'm doing music because I have passion for it,", I can hear the authenticity that's making him one of Nigeria's most promising young talents.