Connect with us

Entertainment

Five Nigerian Musicians Set For Stardom Beyond Their Record Labels

Published

on

In this review, entertainment pundit ANTHONY ADA ABRAHAM takes a look at some of Nigeria trending young musicians making waves under their record label that would remain relevant even after leaving their labels.
Nigeria’s music industry has evolved into a global powerhouse, producing artistes who have not only dominated local charts but have also gained international recognition. A key aspect of the industry is the role of record labels in nurturing talent and propelling artistes to stardom. However, true stars have the potential to thrive even after parting ways with their labels. Below, I analyze five young Nigerian musicians currently under record labels who, given their talent, persona, and industry acumen, are likely to continue rising to new heights even if they leave their labels.
1.ASAKE
Label: YBNL Nation
Since bursting onto the scene with his hit “Mr. Money,” Asake has proven to be one of Nigeria’s most versatile and exciting artiste. His unique blend of Fuji, Afrobeats, and street-hop has endeared him to a broad audience. Under the guidance of Olamide’s YBNL, Asake has honed his craft, releasing hits like “Sungba” and “Terminator.”
Asake’s energetic performances, street-smart lyrics, and knack for storytelling are clear indicators that his talent transcends the backing of any record label. His authentic connection with his fans and his ability to adapt to different sounds suggest that even after YBNL, he will continue to make waves, cementing himself as a mainstay in Nigerian music.
2. AYRA STARR
Label: Mavin Records
Ayra Starr’s rise to fame under Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records has been nothing short of meteoric. The young singer captivated audiences with her debut album “19 & Dangerous”, which produced hits like “Away” and “Bloody Samaritan.” Ayra’s unique sound, which blends Afro-pop with a sprinkle of R&B, resonates with Gen Z listeners who appreciate her boldness and versatility.
What sets Ayra Starr apart is her ability to push boundaries while maintaining a deeply relatable aura. Her songwriting prowess, coupled with her eye-catching visuals, makes her a standout talent. While Mavin has been instrumental in shaping her career, Ayra’s creative vision and self-confidence indicate that she has the potential to carve her own path in the global music industry once she decides to move on.
3.REMA
Label: Mavin Records
Another product of Mavin Records, Rema, has quickly become a household name both in Nigeria and on the international stage. His fusion of Afrobeat, Trap, and Afrofusion has created a distinct sound that appeals to a wide range of audiences. From his breakthrough single “Dumebi” to global hits like “Calm Down,” Rema’s star power is undeniable.
With collaborations that span continents, Rema’s versatility as an artiste is clear. He has the ability to craft both club bangers and introspective tracks that show his artistic depth. Though he is still under the nurturing guidance of Don Jazzy, it’s clear that Rema has the talent and ambition to continue thriving on his own, with or without the label.
4. Zinoleesky
Label: Marlian Music
Zinoleesky has been a consistent hitmaker under Naira Marley’s Marlian Music. His street-influenced Afrobeat sound and catchy lyrics have made him a fan favourite in Nigeria. Songs like “Kilofeshe” and “Gone Far” highlight Zinoleesky’s ability to capture everyday life in Lagos, making him relatable to the average Nigerian listener.
Zinoleesky’s infectious sound and steady stream of hits show that he has what it takes to remain relevant. His work ethic, coupled with his deep understanding of the streets, suggests that his success is not solely tied to his label. When the time comes for Zinoleesky to fly solo, his raw talent and authentic appeal will undoubtedly carry him forward.
5. Oxlade
Label:Troniq Music, Epic Records
Oxlade’s silky vocals and emotive delivery have made him one of the most promising young artistes in Nigeria. His breakout single “Away” put him on the map, and since then, he has delivered several solid projects that showcase his vocal prowess and unique sound, a blend of Afrobeat and R&B.
Oxlade’s collaborations with international artistes and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level position him as an artiste with longevity. While his label has played a significant role in amplifying his career, Oxlade’s artistry is powerful enough to sustain him well beyond his current affiliations.
Conclusion:
The Nigerian music industry has become a breeding ground for global superstars. While record labels play a crucial role in an artiste’s early development, true talent will always shine through. Asake, Ayra Starr, Rema, Zinoleesky, and Oxlade are not just fleeting stars; they are artistes with the potential for long-lasting success, even beyond their record labels. Their talent, work ethic, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level ensure that they will continue to soar, regardless of the banner under which they perform.
                         Anthony Ada Abraham,
                         tkmmedia2012@gmail.com,
                         aanthonyada@yahoo.co.uk .
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Entertainment

Burna Boy’s mother bags nomination for Best Manager at Music Week Awards

Published

on

Bose Ogulu, mother of Grammy winner and Nigerian singer Burna Boy, has been nominated for Manager of the Year at the 2025 Music Week Awards.

Organisers of the award on Wednesday announced Ogulu’s alongside other contenders for the highly coveted trophy.

This year’s Music Week Awards is scheduled to hold on May 8 at JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London, United Kingdom.

Other nominees for the Manager of the Year, a category that highlights the best management talents in global music industry, include Alistair Goldsmith, Neil Hughes, and Wes Banton.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Music Week Awards celebrates excellence in the music industry, including labels, A&R, live events, and management.

Winners for the annual award are selected through peer voting and an independent panel of judges.

NAN also reports that this is not the first time, Burna Boy’s mum is clinching international award, as she won the Manager Of The Year at the 2022 Artist & Manager Awards in London.

Ogulu, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign languages and a Masters of Arts in Translation from the University of Port Harcourt, is from a family deeply rooted in arts and culture.

She is the daughter of Nigerian music critic, Benson Idonije, who managed Fela Kuti, and she was also one of Fela’s background dancers.

She built a successful career as a translator for the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and is proficient in English, French, German, Italian, and Yoruba.

Her role as manager is acclaimed to have played pivotal role in her son’s rise stardom on the global music stage, securing major deals and international recognition.

Among other initiatives, she co-founded Spaceship Collective, supporting African artists and expanding the reach of Afrobeats worldwide.(NAN)

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Why I Don’t Support Disrespectful Wives—Nollywood Star

Published

on

Funke Akindele, the Nigerian filmmaker, says despite being a feminist, she does not encourage women being disrespectful to their husbands.

A feminist is someone who advocates the political, economic, and social equality of women.

In a video addressing skit maker Kamo State and his wife, the filmmaker said she rejects the notion that women are the “weaker sex,” emphasising that they are “strong and bold”.

She urged men to treat women “specially” and not confine them to traditional roles of being in the kitchen.

She further stressed the importance of women’s economic power, advising them to secure financial independence to support their husbands.

“I’m a feminist but I do not support a woman disrespecting her husband. Do what is right,” she said.

“I believe that we are not the weaker sex or vessel. Men are suppose to treat us specially and respect us. Men should not also feel that a woman belongs to the kitchen and can be talked to anyhow.

“We women are strong, and bold. Also, our economic power is important that is why we should make sure we have the power and protect it so we can support our husbands.”

Akindele and producer Abdulrasheed ‘JJC Skillz’ Bello tied the knot in London in 2016 and welcomed a set of twin boys in 2018.

But in June 2022, JJC Skillz announced his separation from Akindele, citing “irreconcilable differences”.

The singer claimed he tried to address the situation but the matter is now “beyond repair.”

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Ayra Starr leads Spotify’s 2025 impact list

Published

on

Spotify has announced Nigerian singer Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, known as Ayra Starr, as the leading artiste in its Global Impact List for 2025.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, shared the news in a statement on Tuesday.

Okumu revealed Ayra Starr’s dominance on Spotify’s Global Impact List, leading 30 Nigerian songs and connecting with audiences worldwide.

The top 10 list includes Ayra Starr, Rauw Alejandro, and Rvssian’s “Santa”; Tems’s “Love MeJeJe”; Burna Boy, Coldplay, Elyanna, Little Simz, and TINI’s “WE PRAY”; and more.

Other songs featured are Ayra Starr and Giveon’s “Last Heartbreak Song”; 21Savage, Burna Boy, and Metro Boomin’s “Justlike Me”; Tems and Tyla’s “No.1”; and others.

Okumu highlighted Nigerian artistes breaking boundaries, saying Spotify is proud to amplify their global reach.

She explained that Nigerian music’s influence has gone global, with Ayra Starr leading the charge in Spotify’s 2025 Global Impact List.

The list showcases 30 Nigerian songs with the strongest international connections this year, reflecting Nigeria’s growing global influence.

Okumu called Ayra Starr a chart-topping force, reshaping the global music scene with her international success.

Ayra’s hits top Nigerian charts, with her music becoming global anthems that resonate worldwide.

“As a Spotify RADAR and EQUAL alumna, Ayra Starr was Nigeria’s most-streamed female artiste in 2024,” Okumu said.

While only two of her tracks, “Last Heartbreak Song” and “Bad Vibes”, are on the Global Impact List, Ayra’s collaborations like “Santa” highlight her wide-reaching influence.

The success of “Santa”, featuring Rvssian and Rauw Alejandro, showcases Ayra’s ability to connect across diverse markets.

Ayra Starr’s six entries on the list, including “Commas”, “GOOD FEELiNGS”, and “Hypé”, show her versatility and global appeal.

Her album The Year I Turned 21 was one of the top 10 most-streamed albums of the year, cementing her global presence.

Okumu emphasised the power of collaboration in amplifying Nigerian music’s global impact, noting 22 of the 30 songs are collaborations.

She explained that collaborations are essential for Nigerian artistes aiming for international success, with 19 involving artistes from other countries.

Songs like “Santa”, “WE PRAY (TINI Version)”, and “Another Vibe” demonstrate the power of such cross-continental partnerships. (NAN)

Continue Reading