KEY POINTS
- Innovative sounds and creative storytelling are reshaping the music industry.
- Young talents blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop to create unique rhythms.
- Dynamic collaborations and relatable lyrics drive their growing popularity.
Nigeria’s music scene continues to flourish, with a new wave of artists making significant impacts both locally and internationally.
Here are seven rising Nigerian artists whose unique sounds and compelling artistry make them essential additions to your 2025 playlist.
Llona
Llona, formerly known as TooClassiq, is an Afro-pop artist renowned for his raw, personal storytelling and introspective lyricism.
His debut album, Homeless, resonated with fans and critics alike, peaking at No. 11 on the TurnTable Official Top 100 Albums Chart. Standout tracks like “Cold War,” featuring Fave, showcase his ability to blend storytelling with compelling rhythms.
In 2024, Llona released the single “HBP Remix,” featuring Bella Shmurda, further solidifying his presence in the Afro-pop scene.
Qing Madi
Nigerian singer Qing Madi is one of the young artists in the Nigerian music industry and at such a young age of 17 years, she already possesses a very big talent.
Also, her self-titled debut EP ‘Qing Madi’ released in November 2023 got a positive response and ranked number 14 on Nigeria Apple Music Chart. Moreover, the hit song “Ole” from the EP charted at number 12 on the TurnTable Top 100.
Qing Madi’s deluxe version of her debut EP, featuring additional tracks, was released in early 2024, showcasing her versatility and growth as an artist.
Kaestyle
Kaestyle is among the upcoming afrobeat artistes in Nigeria, gaining increasing popularity due to his creativity and ability to churn out series of hits.
From his debut EP, Kae’s Study (2022), that produced the broody single “Moving Mad” and the hit remix “True Love (feat. Victony)”, Kaestyle has made a name for himself as an artiste.
In addition, last year, his hit record ‘My Dealer’ feat Omah Lay was one of the top songs of the year.
Fola
Fola gained attention with his hit single “Alone,” which featured Bhadboi OML.
He is currently signed to Bella Shmurda’s Dangbana Records. This was due to the success of his hit single Alone, and a remix with Buju Bnxn—both tracks amassing over 20 million streams on Spotify alone.
Moreover, his distinctive vocals and exceptional songwriting skills set him apart, likely catching Bella Shmurda’s attention and earning him a spot on the label.
Zerry DL
Zerry DL, Shallipopi’s brother, an Edo-born music superstar is another artiste under Plutomania, Shallipopi’s record label label.
With approximately 1.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify and several songs surpassing 15 million streams, he is undoubtedly an artist to watch in 2025.
Besides, he recently gave a stellar feature on Bayanni’s ‘For Where’ which was taken to even greater heights.
Ayo Maff
Ayo Maff is an emerging Nigerian artist known for his unique sound that blends Afrobeats with contemporary pop and hip-hop influences.
His breakout hit “Dealer,” featuring Fireboy DML, catapulted him into the limelight, showcasing his lyrical prowess and knack for crafting infectious rhythms.
Additionally, he has collaborated with Lil Kesh and Blaqbones, performed at the O2 Arena, and recently worked on the remix of ‘Are You There’ with Ayra Starr, scheduled for release in 2025.
Morravey
Morravey is a talented singer-songwriter known for her emotive vocals.
Her debut single, “In the Garden” was an instant hit, resonating with audiences for its heartfelt lyrics and rhythm.
Morravey’s collaborations with key figures in the industry, such as Davido, have solidified her place among Nigeria’s rising stars.
