Top 10 Nigerian celebrities making waves in international music

The Nigerian music industry is experiencing a transformative shift, moving from a landscape dominated by seasoned entertainers to one that is flourishing with the energy and innovation of younger artists.

This evolution has not only reinvigorated the industry but has also propelled Nigerian music onto the global stage.

With renowned artists like Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid leading the charge, the achievements of these musicians are a testament to the vibrant culture and talent emerging from Nigeria.

Here’s a closer look at the top 10 Nigerian celebrities currently making significant waves internationally.

1. Davido

David Adedeji Adeleke, widely known as Davido, is a powerhouse in the Nigerian music industry.

With over 1 billion streams on Spotify, he is one of the most streamed Nigerian artists worldwide.

His hit single “Fall” made history as the longest-charting Nigerian pop song on Billboard, solidifying his international appeal.

Davido’s unique blend of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B has resonated with audiences globally, and his collaborations with international artists like Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj further expand his reach.

2. Burna Boy

Grammy Award-winning artist Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, is a prominent figure in the global music scene.

His album Love, Damini includes the hit single “Last Last,” which debuted at number 86 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Burna Boy’s distinct sound combines Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae, making him a versatile artist.

His sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden and collaborations with global stars like Beyoncé and Drake have propelled him to international stardom, earning him accolades and a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

3. Wizkid

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, is another leading force in Nigerian music.

His fourth album, Made in Lagos, achieved remarkable commercial success, including over 500,000 units sold in the U.S. and more than 1 billion streams across digital platforms.

Wizkid’s collaborations, especially with Tems on the global hit “Essence,” have further established him as a household name.

His ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary pop has won him fans worldwide, making him a key figure in the international music landscape.

4. Kizz Daniel

Kizz Daniel, born Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, has garnered international attention with his catchy hits and engaging performances.

His single “Buga” quickly became a global sensation, ranking among the top Afrobeat songs worldwide.

Kizz Daniel’s innovative approach to music and his knack for creating viral trends on social media have solidified his position in the industry.

His previous EP, Barnabas, achieved significant streaming success on Boomplay, highlighting his growing influence both locally and internationally.

5. Tems

Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, has emerged as a major player in the music industry since her breakout single “Try Me.”

Her collaboration with Wizkid on “Essence” catapulted her into the international spotlight, earning her the title of Best International Act at the 2022 BET Awards.

Tems’ unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul resonates with a diverse audience, and her collaborations with artists like Drake and Future further establish her as a formidable talent on the global stage.

6. Ayra Starr

At just 20 years old, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known as Ayra Starr, is making waves in the music industry.

Her debut album 19 & Dangerous, topped charts in Nigeria, and her single “Away” received critical acclaim, showcasing her musical talent.

Ayra’s fresh sound and engaging presence on social media have garnered her a growing international fanbase.

As a rising star, she exemplifies the potential of young artists to achieve global recognition in the ever-evolving music landscape.

7. Fireboy DML

Adedamola Adefolahan, known as Fireboy DML, is a rising star in the Afrobeats genre.

His debut album Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps received critical acclaim, and his single “Peru” became a major hit, charting internationally and receiving a remix featuring Ed Sheeran.

Fireboy’s emotive lyrics and catchy melodies resonate with audiences, and his energetic performances are quickly making him a favorite on international stages.

8. Omah Lay

Omah Lay, born Omah Stanley Demeji, has quickly established himself as a significant voice in the music industry. His EP Get Layd gained massive popularity, with hits like “Bad Influence” and “You.”

Omah’s distinctive sound blends Afrobeats with R&B and hip-hop influences, making him a standout artist.

His international collaborations and performances are helping him gain recognition beyond Nigeria, solidifying his place in the global music scene.

9. Zlatan Ibile

Zlatan Ibile, known for his energetic style and catchy tunes, is making significant strides in the international music scene.

His hit song “Zanku (Legwork)” popularized a dance craze that spread globally. Zlatan’s unique blend of street hop and Afrobeats, coupled with his engaging personality, has helped him build a substantial fanbase.

His collaborations with both local and international artists continue to elevate his status in the music industry.

10. Simi

Simisola Kosoko, known as Simi, is a celebrated artist and songwriter who has made significant contributions to the Nigerian music scene.

Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with fans both locally and internationally.

Simi’s collaboration with international artists, as well as her involvement in projects like the Netflix movie Far from Home, showcases her versatility and growing influence in the global entertainment industry.