Igbo highlife is a modern musical style that blends Igbo traditional music with highlife. The music in this genre is mostly guitar-based, with a unique fusion of vocal rhythms and horns. The lyrics of Igbo highlife are primarily sung in Igbo, with sporadic Pidgin English interspersed. Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe, whose career lasted more than 40 years, is among the most significant writers and performers of the genre. The 1984 hit song “Osondi Owendi” is one of the many well-known tracks on Osadebe’s discography. It helped him become known as a pioneer of the Igbo highlife genre.
The greatest Igbo highlife performer in history
1. Stephen Osita Osadebe, Chief
One of Nigeria’s most significant highlife performers, Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe was renowned for his sultry manner and perceptive lyrics. Here are some important details about him as well as some of his most well-known and popular songs:
Important details regarding Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe:
1. Birth and the Formative Years: born in Atani, Anambra State, Nigeria, on March 17, 1936.
He was up in southeast Nigeria, an area known for its highlife music and Igbo culture.
2. The Origins of Music: Osadebe started his musical career in the 1950s and rose to fame in the 1960s.
He performed with a number of ensembles, such as the “Eze N’Igbo” Band, before starting the “Stephen Osita Osadebe Band.”
3. Style of Music: In addition to his deep, calming voice, he was well-known for fusing Western instruments like the guitar, trumpet, and saxophone with traditional Igbo music.
He was a voice for the people since his songs frequently dealt with topics of love, social concerns, and cultural values.
4. Impact: The popularity of highlife music in Nigeria and throughout West Africa was greatly aided by Osadebe’s music.
In the Igbo-speaking world, he is still regarded as a cultural figure and his music is still adored.
5. Demise: Even though he passed away on May 11, 2007, his songs are still performed throughout Nigeria and the diaspora, demonstrating his lasting influence.
Popular Songs by Stephen Osita Osadebe, the Chief:
1. “Osondi Owendi”
This song is frequently regarded as one of his signature pieces and is arguably his most well-known. The timeless highlife song “Osondi Owendi” discusses the duality of good and bad in society and in life.
2. “Nwa Baby”
A song that gained popularity due to its amorous lyrics and catchy music. Fans of all ages found great resonance in its portrayal of love and affection.
3. “Baba Nnam”
In Nigeria’s highlife scene, this song has been a constant hit. The song, which translates to “My Father,” is an emotional meditation about family, leadership, and respect for elders.
4. “Akwete”
A song that demonstrates his passion for Igbo traditional rhythms. The song “Akwete” honors Igbo culture and heritage and is named after a village in southeast Nigeria that is well-known for its traditional weaving.
5. “Igbo Kwenu”
“Igbo Kwenu” is a patriotic and joyous song that is frequently played at Igbo social and cultural events. It is frequently a song that unites the community since it expresses pride in Igbo heritage and culture.
6. “Onye Oyi”
“Onye Oyi” is a very introspective song that emphasizes the difficulties and complexities of life. It is still well-liked because of its perceptive lyrics and Osadebe’s calming vocal performance.
2. Olive De Coque
Olive De Coque was a well-known Nigerian musician who was born Sunday Akwueze on April 14, 1957, in Enugu State, in the country’s southeast. He is especially recognized for his contributions to the highlife music genre. Here are some important details about him and his well-known songs:
Important Olive De Coque Facts:
1. Early Years and Upbringing: Olive De Coque’s passion in music began at a young age because he came from a musical family.
His musical path was influenced by his upbringing in an area where highlife music was popular.
2. Career in Music: After joining the “Cosmos Sounds Band” in the 1970s, Olive De Coque went on to start his own band, the “Olive De Coque Band.”
With his upbeat performances and distinctive style, he made a significant contribution to the Nigerian highlife scene during his rise to fame in the 1980s and 1990s.
3. Unique Style: De Coque was renowned for his ability to create a more contemporary version of highlife by fusing traditional Igbo music with Western instruments including electric guitars, bass, and drums.
Catchy melodies, pulsating beats, and lyrics that honored Igbo customs, culture, and daily life were hallmarks of his work.
5. Honors and Accolades: Throughout his career, he received a number of honors, but the “Best Highlife Musician” title in the early 1990s was a noteworthy one.
6. Demise: Although Olive De Coque passed away on June 20, 2008, his music lives on and continues to have a significant influence on highlife music in Nigeria and Africa.
Popular Music by Olive De Coque:
1. “Biri Ka Mbiri”
“Biri Ka Mbiri” (meaning “Long Life”), one of Olive De Coque’s most well-known songs, became an enormous hit. Themes of joy, longevity, and prosperity are reflected throughout it. The song is a fan favorite because of its upbeat message and appealing rhythm.
2. “Ngozi”
Olive De Coque’s “Ngozi” is another well-liked song. “Blessing” is the song’s Igbo translation, and it has a joyous vibe. It is still one of his favorite songs and is frequently played at parties.
3. “Cinderella”
In “Cinderella,” Olive De Coque sings a charming melody that combines danceable and romantic rhythms. This song, which was popular in the 1980s and 1990s, depicts the tale of Cinderella, a lovely girl.
4. “Money Palava”
Like many of De Coque’s songs, this one discusses societal themes, in this case the difficulties in handling wealth and money. The socioeconomic circumstances in Nigeria at the time are reflected in it.
5. “Omalicha”
Olive De Coque’s “Omalicha” is another noteworthy song in which he extols a woman’s beauty and charm. Fans may easily join in on the song’s groove, which combines highlife and love.
6. “Amuma”
The song “Amuma” also combines modern highlife rhythms with traditional Igbo music. The song’s lively tempo and celebration of culture and life make it a favorite.
3. Celestine Ukwu
A well-known highlife performer from Nigeria, Celestine Ukwu is renowned for both his unique sound and his contributions to the growth of contemporary highlife music. Here are some important details about him and his well-known songs:
Important details about Celestine Ukwu
1. Early Years and Upbringing: The Igbo people’s homeland, Umuahia, in southeast Nigeria, is where Celestine Ukwu was born on March 9, 1946.
Early in life, he became interested in music and was influenced by both Western and traditional Igbo styles.
2. Career in Music: In the 1960s and 1970s, Ukwu rose to prominence in Nigeria’s highlife scene.
Combining Western instruments like the guitar, trumpet, and drums with indigenous Nigerian rhythms, he was a pioneer of modern highlife.
He began his musical career with the group “The Music Royals” before starting his own group, “Celestine Ukwu and His Music Royals.”
3. Unique Sound: Celestine Ukwu’s work was distinguished by its seamless fusion of lush melodies and slow, deep beats. He had a reputation for using music to tell gripping tales and for having a voice that evoked strong emotions.
Themes of love, social concerns, and the intricacies of Nigerian society were frequently covered in his songs.
4. Demise: Celestine Ukwu’s budding musical career was cut short when she sadly died in a car accident on December 7, 1977, at the age of 31.
Celestine Ukwu’s Top Songs:
1. “Igede”
Among Ukwu’s most well-known tunes, “Igede” is a timeless highlife melody that perfectly encapsulates his fluid vocals and rhythmic prowess. With a rhythm that combines contemporary instruments with traditional African drums, the song honors life and its pleasures.
2. “Osondi Owendi”
Celestine Ukwu also recorded a version of “Osondi Owendi” that gained widespread recognition, despite being popularized by Stephen Osita Osadebe.
3. “Ezi Okwu”
Among Celestine Ukwu’s songs, “Ezi Okwu” explores the value of honesty and morality in society.
4. “Nwa Baby”
This timeless love ballad demonstrates Ukwu’s ability to skillfully combine highlife and romantic music. “Nwa Baby” is a fan favorite because of its catchy beat and poignant lyrics.
5. “Mbiri”
The well-known song “Mbiri” further demonstrates Ukwu’s distinctive fusion of narrative and mellow melodies.
6. “Ayiwa”
The emotional highlife song “Ayiwa” emphasizes the value and beauty of relationships and love.
4. Dr sir warrior
Born Ignatius Sir Warrior in Anambra State, Nigeria, on June 8, 1951, Dr. Sir Warrior is regarded as one of the most prominent figures in the genre and one of the leading pioneers of Nigerian highlife music. He became well-known in the Nigerian music industry and his music made a significant contribution to the growth of contemporary highlife music in that country. Key details regarding him and his popular songs are as follows:
Important details on Dr. Sir Warrior
1. Early Years and Upbringing: Born in Anambra State in southeast Nigeria, Dr. Sir Warrior came from a musical household. His approach was influenced by the traditional Igbo music and culture he was exposed to growing up.
He started performing music at a young age and fell in love with the highlife genre as a result of his early musical exposure.
2. Career in Music: One of the most well-known figures in Nigerian highlife music, Dr. Sir Warrior began his career in the early 1970s.
He gained notoriety for his distinctive blending of Western instruments, like guitars and horns, with traditional African rhythms.
One of Nigeria’s most popular and significant highlife ensembles, Sir Warrior and His Oriental Brothers International Band, was led by him.
3. Awards and Acknowledgment: Because of his impact on Nigerian highlife music, he was given the title “Dr.” His art was praised for its richness, complexity, and cultural relevance.
4.Death: Despite Dr. Sir Warrior’s passing on March 16, 1999, his influence and contributions to highlife music endure. Both younger and elder generations still appreciate his songs.
Popular Music by Dr. Sir Warrior:
1. “Osondi Owendi”
One of Dr. Sir Warrior’s most well-known and timeless songs is this one. The song “Osondi Owendi” talks about the paradoxes in society, balancing good and bad, and the ups and downs of life.
2. “Obodo”
Dr. Sir Warrior’s “Obodo” is another well-known hit. Fans of traditional Nigerian music still enjoy this song, which rose to popularity in the 1980s.
3. “Akwete”
With particular reference to Akwete, a village in southeast Nigeria renowned for its traditional weaving, this song celebrates Igbo culture.
4. “Nwachukwu”
Dr. Sir Warrior’s song “Nwachukwu” demonstrates his skill as a lyricist and his capacity to express profound cultural ideas.
5. “Ezigbo”
The song “Ezigbo” highlights the value of integrity and excellent character in Igbo culture.
6. “Madu”
Like many of Dr. Sir Warrior’s songs, this one has a strong emotional connection with listeners despite touching on complicated social concerns and human nature.
5. Prince Nico Mbarga
Nigerian musician and songwriter Prince Nico Mbarga was born in Abakaliki, Nigeria, on December 1, 1950. He is primarily known for his famous song “Sweet Mother,” which is among the most recognizable and cherished tunes in African music history. He continues to have a significant impact on African and Nigerian music, especially the afrobeat and highlife genres. Key details about Prince Nico Mbarga and some of his most well-known and popular songs are included below:
Important details about Prince Nico Mbarga
1. Early Years and Upbringing: Abakaliki, in what is now Ebonyi State in southeast Nigeria, is where Prince Nico Mbarga was born. His varied musical approach was influenced by his dual Cameroonian and Nigerian ancestry.
His early musical career was influenced by both Western and local Igbo music.
2. Career in Music: Before starting his own band, the “Rocky Moutain Band,” Mbarga began his professional music career in the 1970s, playing with a number of bands.
His work, which combined popular African rhythms like Afrobeat and Nigerian highlife, brought him significant popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
4. Style of Music: Mbarga was renowned for his proficiency in highlife music, a style that combines Western instruments with African rhythms. His music featured a distinctive fusion of rock, jazz, and funk elements with traditional African melodies.
He is renowned for his ability to write songs with worldwide appeal, and his deep, soulful voice and rhythmic guitar playing were essential to his sound.
5. Death: Even though Prince Nico Mbarga went unexpectedly on June 24, 1997, his music—particularly “Sweet Mother,” which is now a timeless classic—lives on.
Prince Nico Mbarga’s Top Tracks:
1. “Sweet Mother”
Prince Nico Mbarga’s “Sweet Mother” is without a doubt his most well-known and cherished song. The song, which pays homage to moms, is a mainstay at festivals, celebrations, and get-togethers throughout Africa because of its poignant words and catchy tune. It is still among the best-selling African songs ever.
2. “Lobi”
The song “Lobi” is another well-known composition by Prince Nico Mbarga. Fans of highlife like the song because of its catchy tune and rhythmic beats.
3.”Akwete”
The song “Akwete” emphasizes Prince Nico Mbarga’s ties to his Igbo heritage and culture.
4. “My Mother”
Following the poignant theme of “Sweet Mother,” Mbarga also honors the nurturing, loving role that mothers perform in “My Mother.”
5. “Mami Wata”
The lively, cheerful tune “Mami Wata” blends Western elements with African rhythms. The song, which was popular in the 1980s due to its catchy tune, is named after the legendary water spirit of West Africa.
6. “Sika”
Prince Nico Mbarga’s “Sika” is another standout tune that combines Western-style melodies with traditional African sounds.
6. Lawson, Rex
Rex Lawson was a well-known highlife performer known for his emotional depth and proficiency on the trumpet and saxophone. He was born Erekeosima Lawson in Buguma, Nigeria, on March 4, 1938. He served as the head of the Majors Band also called the Rivers Men. In the 1960s, he became well-known throughout Nigeria.
Early Years and Musical Development
Lawson was the son of an Owerri-born Igbo mother and a Kalabari chieftain father. At first, his father called him Erekeosima, which translates to “do not name this one,” because he had lost his other children. Lawson’s early health issues, such as a severe bout of smallpox, did not stop him from pursuing his love of music. He started out in Port Harcourt as a bandboy for Lord Eddyson’s Starlight Melody Orchestra before working with well-known artists like Sammy Obot, Bobby Benson, and Victor Olaiya.
Themes and Musical Style
Lawson was praised for his philosophical and passionate lyrics, which frequently expressed strong feelings in his songs.
On stage, he was known to cry while singing his own songs, particularly the melancholic “So ala teme.” His versatility and strong ties to African musical traditions were demonstrated by his ability to sing in a variety of languages and dialects, including Kalabari, Nembe, Ijaw, Igbo, Urhobo, Ibibio, Efik, as well as those of Cameroon and Ghana.
A Tragic Death
Rex Lawson passed away tragically on January 16, 1971, at the age of 32, in a car accident on the Asaba–Benin Road while traveling to a show in Warri, Nigeria. Although his premature passing ended a bright musical career, his impact on the highlife genre lives on.
Famous Songs
Among Rex Lawson’s most well-known compositions are:
“Love Adure”
“Sawale”
“So ala teme”
“Yellow Sisi”
“Gowon Special”
“Jolly Papa”
7. Ayaka ozubulu
Nigerian Highlife musician and performer Ayaka Ozubulu, whose real name is Chigozie Obunike, has been involved in the music industry for more than ten years. His contributions to the Igbo Highlife genre are well known, and he has become well-known for his upbeat live performances and unique musical style.
Career and Style in Music
Ayaka Ozubulu’s music has a distinctive sound that appeals to a broad audience by fusing modern Highlife elements with traditional Igbo rhythms. His flexibility and dedication to the Highlife genre are demonstrated by the numerous singles and EPs he has released.
Notable Tracks and Albums
Among Ayaka Ozubulu’s well-known songs are:
1. “Turn by Turn”: The well-known song exemplifies his upbeat stage presence.
2. “Ozopuru Ini Ego”: Another popular song that demonstrates his skill as a musician.
3. “My Light”: His 2024 single “My Light” reflects his continued influence on the Highlife genre.
4. “Odogwu on Stage (Live)”: The April 2024 release of the EP “Odogwu on Stage (Live)” captured the spirit of his live performances.
8. Bright Chimezie
Born in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, on October 1, 1960, Bright Chimezie is a well-known musician who is credited with creating the Zigima sound, which is a blend of modern highlife music with traditional Igbo rhythms. He became a prominent presence in the Nigerian music industry in the 1980s thanks to his avant-garde style.
Career and Style in Music
Chimezie’s music is distinguished by its upbeat beats, memorable melodies, and lyrics that raise social awareness. In addition, his distinctive dance moves, known as “Legwork,” are well-known and go well with his musical performances.
Notable Tracks and Albums
Among Bright Chimezie’s most well-known songs are:
1. “African Style”: The timeless song “African Style” features his distinctive Zigima sound.
2. “Ube Nwanne” is a well-known song that showcases his dynamic stage presence.
3. “Life Na Teacher” is a song that showcases his musical abilities.
4. “Iheoma Si Gi Na Obi” is a song that perfectly captures his distinct style of pop and highlife music.
5. “I Got the Rhythm”: The song “I Got the Rhythm” demonstrates his range as a musician.
6. “Life of Yesterday” The album “Life of Yesterday,” which Chimezie released in 2023, with songs like “Where Is Love” and “Life of Yesterday.”
9. Baba Ken Okulolo
Born in the Delta Region of Nigeria on September 12, 1950, Babá Ken Okulolo is a well-known Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, bassist, bandleader, singer, and educator.
He is renowned for having strong ties to folk music and traditional village life, both of which have greatly impacted his musical style. He became well-known throughout the world as a bassist for King Sunny Ade’s world tours and albums in the middle of the 1980s.
Career and Style in Music
Okulolo’s commitment to conserving and advancing African music traditions is what defines his musical path. By fusing traditional sounds with modern influences, he has played a significant role in bringing African rhythms and melodies to audiences around the world. He has led a number of ensembles as a bandleader, including:
The band Babá Ken & Kotoja is well-known for combining juju, jazz, funk, highlife, and Afrobeat.
An ensemble that highlights the rich history of West African highlife music is the West African Highlife Band.
A group that focuses on traditional Nigerian melodies and rhythms is called Babá Ken Okulolo & the Nigerian Brothers.
Notable Tracks and Albums
Among Babá Ken Okulolo’s well-known songs are:
1. “Mafe”: The song “Mafe” is part of the 2009 album “Putumayo Kids Presents Kid’s African Party.”
2. “Sawale”: The song “Sawale” is taken from the 2007 album “Best of Babá Ken & Kotoja”.
3. “SéSékulé”: The song “SéSékulé” is featured on the 2012 album “African Drum Songs”.
4. “Kilélé”: An additional song from the 2012 album “African Drum Songs” is “Kilélé”.
5. “Mumudey”: Consists of the song “African Drum Songs” (2012).
10. Ogidi Chief Onyenze Nwa-Amobi
Born Richard Onyenze Amobi in Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria, on January 13, 1979, Chief Onyenze Nwa-Amobi is a well-known Nigerian highlife singer, Nollywood actor, director, and film producer. He is the nephew of Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe, a late highlife icon.
Highlights of my career:
Music: In the year 2000, Onyenze launched his professional music career with the publication of his debut single, “Ndidi Amaka.” He has since released a number of popular songs, such as “Ogwu Anya Ukwu,” “One One B,” “Ndi Igbo Ndo,” and “Oka Di Na Karama.” His 2020 albums “Million to Billion” and “One One B” have garnered positive reviews.
Popular Songs:
Among Chief Onyenze Nwa-Amobi’s well-known songs are:
1. “One One B”: The popular song “One One B” highlights his distinct highlife approach.
2. “Ndi Igbo Ndo”: The song “Ndi Igbo Ndo” has a strong emotional connection to the Igbo people.
3. “Ogwu Anya Ukwu”: His song “Ogwu Anya Ukwu” is another well-liked one.
4. “Oka Di Na Karama” is a song that his fans really enjoy.
Who is the most famous Igbo highlife performer?
Stephen Osita Osadebe, Chief, is the Igbo Highlife Music King. One of the most popular forms of African music is Igbo highlife, which reflects the rich customs, history, and culture of the Igbo people of southeast Nigeria. This genre creates a unique and soulful sound by fusing Western instruments with traditional Igbo rhythms and melodies. When it comes to the “King of Igbo Highlife,” Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe is the name that sticks out the most.
Top 10 Best Igbo Artist in 2024
Nigeria’s Igbo music sector is still thriving as of December 2024, with several performers making noteworthy contributions to a variety of genres. Ten well-known Igbo performers who have made an impression this year are listed below:
1. Flavour
Flavour N’abania, whose real name is Chinedu Izuchukwu Okoli, is a well-known Nigerian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who is renowned for his vibrant blend of modern and Igbo highlife music. He started his musical career as a drummer in the choir of his local church after being born on November 23, 1983, in Enugu State, Nigeria. Flavour has gained widespread recognition over the years, especially for his popular song “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix).”
Flavour has kept listeners enthralled in 2024 with a number of popular songs that highlight his adaptability and close relationship with his cultural roots.
Among the noteworthy tracks are:
1. “Let’s Dance”: is a lively song that has grown to be a party and social gathering favorite, showcasing Flavour’s talent for making catchy dance beats.
2.”Egwu Ukwu”: This song, which translates to “Big Dance” in Igbo, appeals to a broad spectrum of listeners by fusing contemporary beats with traditional highlife.
3.”Life Is Beautiful”: A poignant tune that speaks to the pleasures and difficulties of life, it strikes a deep chord with fans.
4.”Odumeje Powers”: This song blends Flavour’s distinctive style with spiritual themes, drawing inspiration from the well-known Nigerian clergyman Odumeje.
5.”Obianuju”: A romantic song that has attracted a lot of attention due to its poignant lyrics and catchy arrangement.
2. Phyno
Chibuzor Phyno, whose real name is Nelson Azubuike, is a well-known Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is from Anambra State and was born in Enugu State, Nigeria, on October 9, 1986. Phyno, who started his musical career in 2003 as a producer, is well-known for his ability to merge Igbo, Nigerian Pidgin, and English while rapping mostly in Igbo.
“Full Time Job,” Phyno’s fifth studio album, was released in 2024, confirming his place in the Nigerian music scene.
Among the album’s noteworthy songs are:
1. “Anthem Ndi Eze”: is a song that combines modern beats with traditional Igbo themes as a tribute to traditional Igbo aristocracy.
2.”Sweet Karma”: is a catchy song that reflects on karma and life’s experiences.
3. “Trouble Maker”: The upbeat song “Trouble Maker” has become well-known due to its rapid rhythm and enticing choruses.
4.”Nwoke Esike (Interlude)”: A short but powerful interlude that highlights fortitude and resiliency.
5. “Grateful” is a heartfelt declaration of thankfulness that strikes a deep chord with listeners.
6.”Men Don Show Face” is an upbeat song that emphasizes importance and influence.
7. “Nwayo Nwayo”: This song, which translates to “Slowly Slowly,” promotes perseverance and gradual advancement.
8. “Back Outside” Featuring artist Cheque, “Back Outside” is a lively anthem honoring liberty and social life.
9.”It’s Nothing” is a self-assured song that dismisses obstacles and asserts resiliency.
10. “Time Of My Life” The upbeat tune “Time Of My Life” reflects on happy times and has sparked dancing contests on social media sites like TikTok.
3. Kcee
Kingsley Nigerian singer and songwriter Chinweike Okonkwo, better known by his stage name Kcee, is well-known for his dramatic contributions to the Afrobeat and highlife genres. Kcee was born in Ajegunle, Lagos State, Nigeria, on April 18, 1979. His musical career took off after he and his partner, KC Presh, won the Star Quest talent contest in 2002. After their breakup, Kcee had a prosperous solo career and became well-known thanks to songs like “Limpopo” and “Pullover.”
With the release of his album “Mr. Versatile” which combines classic highlife roots with modern Afrobeat rhythms, Kcee further demonstrated his flexibility in 2024.
Among the album’s noteworthy songs are:
1. “Ojapiano”: This song, which combines traditional Igbo and Amapiano musical elements, has become very famous due to its distinctive tone.
2. “Big Fish”: Fans have responded well to the upbeat song “Big Fish” because of its catchy choruses and lively beats.
3.”Obalende”: A song that highlights Kcee’s narrative skills while reminiscing about life in Lagos’s busy Obalende neighborhood.
4. Zoro
Owoh Nigerian rapper and singer Chimaobi Chrismathner, better known by his stage names Zoro or Zoro Swagbag, is renowned for his vibrant blend of modern music with the Igbo language. born in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria, on March 20, 1990.
With a number of popular songs that highlight his flexibility and strong ties to his cultural heritage, Zoro has enthralled audiences in 2024.
Among the noteworthy tracks are:
1.”Gangan”: This 2024 release has become well-known due to its catchy beat and captivating lyrics.
2.”EGOWO”: “EGOWO” is a well-curated soundtrack that was released in 2024 and has received accolades for its distinctive fusion of contemporary and traditional musical components.
3. “Diamond” with Peruzzi: This well-received duet with Peruzzi demonstrates Zoro’s ability to easily mix his approach with those of other musicians.
4. “Double Tap”: This 2024 release has also struck a chord with listeners due to its catchy beat and relatable lyrics.
5. Tekno
Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer Augustine Miles Kelechi, better known by his stage name Tekno, is well-known for his contributions to Afrobeat and Afropop music. Tekno, who was born in Bauchi State, Nigeria, on December 17, 1992, rose to fame with songs like “Pana” and “Duro,” demonstrating his unique blend of rhythmic pulses and enticing melodies.
Tekno enthralled fans in 2024 with a number of popular songs that showcased his flexibility and avant-garde musical style.
Among the noteworthy tracks are:
1.”Wayo”: This 2024 release has drawn a lot of attention due to its catchy beat and captivating lyrics, which has strengthened Tekno’s position in the music industry.
2.”Gun” is a popular song among fans, as seen by the large number of social media shares and Tekno’s own TikTok promotion.
6. Skibii
whose real name is Abbey Toyyib Elias, is a well-known Afro-pop performer, songwriter, and musician from Nigeria. He started out as a rapper in high school and has since grown to become one of Nigeria’s most sought-after musicians. He was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on July 5, 1992.
Among the noteworthy tracks are:
1. “Jostimilo”: This 2024 release has become well-known due to its catchy beat and captivating lyrics.
2.”Steeze”: This 2024 release has also struck a chord with listeners due to its catchy beat and relevant lyrics.
3. “Open Bareta”: This song highlights Skiibii’s storytelling skills while reminiscing about life in Lagos’s busy Obalende neighborhood.
4. “Moving Train”: Fans have responded favorably to the upbeat song “Moving Train” because of its catchy hooks and lively beats.
5.”Soro”: A song that highlights Skiibii’s storytelling skills while reminiscing about life in Lagos’s busy Obalende neighborhood.
7. Umu Obiligbo
The Nigerian highlife music duo Umu Obiligbo is made up of brothers Obiligbo Ifeanyi (Okpuozor) and Obiligbo Ebuka (Akunwafor). Originating from Nteje in Nigeria’s Anambra State, they have won praise for fusing traditional Igbo highlife with current Afrobeat beats that appeal to contemporary audiences while conserving cultural history.
Umu Obiligbo released a number of songs in 2024 that showed off their musical range and struck a chord with people.
Among the notable tunes are:
1. “Ikorobia”: This song showcases the duo’s distinctive blend of Afrobeat and highlife, with catchy beats and perceptive lyrics.
2. “OLUOMA” with Duncan Mighty: This collaboration combined Duncan Mighty’s distinct sound with Umu Obiligbo’s highlife roots to create a catchy song that attracted a lot of attention.
3. Beepee’s song “Business”: This song explores themes of ambition and enterprise by fusing modern sounds with classic highlife components.
4. Bracket’s “Over Sabi” combines Bracket’s Afro-pop flair with Umu Obiligbo’s highlife expertise to create a song that appeals to a wide range of listeners.
5.”Olisa”: A poignant song that demonstrates the pair’s singing skill and strong ties to their heritage.
8. Snazzy the Optimist
Snazzy the Optimist, whose real name is Michael Chimeruche Alozie, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter from Imo State.
A number of Snazzy the Optimist’s 2024 releases have struck a chord with listeners.
Among the notable tunes are:
1. “Tequila For The Road”: This track, which was released on June 21, 2024, features Snazzy’s melodious approach and has garnered positive feedback from audiences.
2. “Asa”: This song has received a lot of attention and, when combined with its “Slowed Down + Sped Up” variants, demonstrates Snazzy’s versatility.
3. “Seluna” : Since its initial release in 2021, “Seluna” has been a favorite among fans, demonstrating Snazzy’s timeless appeal.
9. Mike Ejeagha
Nigerian highlife artist Mike Ejeagha was born in 1932 and is well-known for his storytelling skills and contributions to Igbo music. Over the course of his multi-decade career, he has put out a number of albums and singles that have had a significant influence on the Nigerian music landscape.
In 2024, Mike Ejeagha’s music saw a comeback, especially because to the remix of his timeless song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche.” This song, which was first released in 1983, became well-known again after Nigerian comedian Brain Jotter used it in his routines. This caused it to receive a lot of attention on social media. Both new and seasoned fans have praised the 2024 release of the remix, which featured Duncan Mighty.
Further establishing Mike Ejeagha’s impact in the modern music scene is the fact that his song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo (Enyi Ga Achi)” has become popular in 2024.
10. Nwokocha Paul
Renowned Nigerian gospel musician Dr. Paul Nwokocha is well-known for his impassioned and potent songs. Over the course of his multi-decade career, he has put out a number of albums and singles that have had a big influence on the gospel music landscape. His music is renowned for its enthralling melodies and profound spiritual meanings.
With a number of popular songs that have struck a deep chord with listeners, Dr. Nwokocha has continued to inspire fans in 2024. Among the noteworthy tracks are:
1. “God Is Bigger Than”: The anthem “God Is Bigger Than” highlights God’s omnipotence and exhorts believers to have faith in His omnipotence.
2.”Ereghi”: A poignant song that highlights God’s faithfulness, “Ereghi” has grown to be a fan favorite due to its catchy melody and motivational message.
3.”Omni Science God”: This song emphasizes God’s omniscience, celebrating His all-pervading wisdom and understanding. It is one of the most notable songs of 2024 because of its thought-provoking lyrics and captivating beat.
4.”You Do What You Do”: This hymn, which has received praise for its catchy melody and potent message of God’s power to produce miracles, is a monument to God’s amazing works.
5.”What a Mighty God”: This song acknowledges God’s majesty and greatness while exalting Him.