Afrobeats, a captivating fusion of hip-hop and electronic elements with West African rhythms, has become a global sensation in the music industry. Although well-known heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido still dominate the scene, a new generation of gifted musicians is emerging and has the potential to propel the genre to new heights.

In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of stars like Rema, Asake, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Libianca, Fireboy DML, and a host of others armed with unique sounds, captivating lyricism, and undeniable stage presence, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats by infusing it with elements of R&B, pop, and even alternative sounds.

This year, the Nigerian music industry is experiencing a surge in popularity from a new breed of talents. Let’s meet the Nigerian artists you need to know:

Qing Madi

Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known by her stage name Qing Madi, is a multi-talented Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who is shaping 4music with her distinctive blend of pop, soul, R&B, and Afrobeats. Her breakthrough single, “Why,” released in 2023, quickly gained popularity, marking her arrival in the Nigerian music scene. Her unique style and artistic ability are harmoniously blended in “Why,” a song that mixes melodicism and an irresistible rhythmic drive.

With her self-described Afro-R&B sound, Qing Madi has boldly carved out her own musical niche while elegantly following in the footsteps of famous Afrobeat giants. Qing Madi recently unveiled her latest project, inviting listeners to experience the unique melodies and lyrical depth woven into each track. The self-titled project “Qing Madi” showcases the artist’s dedication to her craft, further solidifying her position as a significant figure and one to watch out for in 2024. “American Love” is one track off the EP that is promising, and I suggest everyone take a listen. Listen here.

Oladapo

Nigerian musician Tonade Oladapo Adetunji, better known by his stage name Oladapo, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and performer. His sound, described as “Afro-fusion,” combines highlife and R&B melodies with unique contemporary elements, all artistically complemented with elements of his native Yoruba and Nigerian Pidgin. His listeners are taken on a never-ending musical journey by his soulful vocals and artistic vision.

Oladapo’s newest body of work, “IN CASE I NEVER LOVE AGAIN (ICINLA),” is poised to win hearts once more. A story of poignant intimacy, the 10-track project offers a cathartic journey for people who have felt the pain of unfulfilled emotional connections. Listen here.

Morravey

Daniella Daniel Ibinabo is a singer, songwriter, and creative who goes by the stage name Morravey. With her soulful vocals, this fast-rising R&B musician has undoubtedly captured the eye of the Nigerian audience, going from making covers to becoming an online sensation. Recognized for contributing her beautiful yet exceptional vocals on “In the Garden,” one of the most celebrated albums of 2023, “Timeless” by Davido.

The buzz surrounding Morravey’s debut EP, RAVI, which consists of five mesmerizing tracks, is growing. The EP, released on November 2, 2023, includes the top-charting track “Magician,” a collaboration with Davido. Listen here.

Winny

Winifred Ohili Adanu, popularly known as Winny, is a talented artist from Nigeria. With her unique vocal delivery and a sound that combines R&B/Soul, Afro, and reggae, the gifted singer offers her music a distinct edge. Inspired by artists such as Chris Brown, Wizkid, Chronixx and Kranium, Winny aims to convey love, compassion, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging through her music and songwriting.

Winny proves she’s one to watch with her breakout self-titled EP “WINNY.” Her breathtaking single, “Pretty,” is a lovely song with excellent writing and composition. It debuted in the Top 200 of the Apple R&B/Soul Chart in Nigeria, Kenya, the Congo, and the Gambia. Listen here.

Kold AF

Aninooritsewarami Alero Oritsesan, a Nigerian rising star with a unique voice and style who goes by her stage name Kold AF, has proven why she is a queen in her own world and deserves everyone’s time and attention. Through her popular song covers, the rapidly budding artist has gradually and steadily grown her fan base.

Her recently released body of work titled “KOLLIDE” showcases her genre-bending ability that shares the spotlight with her superb songwriting. Kold AF is making a difference with her distinct style in Nigerian music by experimenting with Pop and R&B, complemented with dancehall style. She is showing signs of being a force to be reckoned with. Listen here.

The world’s music industry has always been inspired by Africa, the continent of rich cultural heritage. In the African music scene, R&B is experiencing a significant comeback, despite the historical dominance of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gengetone, and other genres. This is an exciting development for the continent.

Africa’s R&B scene is proof of African musicians’ uniqueness, versatility, and creativity. R&B has always been associated with romantic themes and soulful songs, but African musicians are giving the genre a distinctive new direction by incorporating elements of their own cultures and musical tastes.

Africa has a never-ending love for good R&B; South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, and Uganda have the highest R&B listenership on Spotify. Collaborations between international superstars and African musicians in the R&B genre are becoming more frequent than they were a decade ago, mostly due to this tremendous rise.

From the mesmerizing strains of “Big FU” by David Guetta, featuring Nigeria’s finest Ayra Starr, to the captivating melodies of “Sensational” by Chris Brown, Davido, and Lojay, and Travis Scott jumping on Tyla‘s “Water,” one of Africa’s breakout songs of 2023. Africa’s stars are shining bright on the world stage.

And now, African singers are also connecting with one another to release global hits all on their own.

Soulful vocals combined with modern production techniques, Afrobeat loops, and traditional African rhythms are being skillfully blended by musicians all throughout the globe. This blend produces a sound that not only resonates with listeners but also bridges the gap between the past and the present.

In Africa, R&B is growing in popularity more than ever. We see that the power of music transcends all borders, whether by location or generation, as this global journey spreads like wildfire.

Lil Durk has made the difficult decision to cancel his much-anticipated Rolling Loud Miami performance and a significant portion of his ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour.’

The announcement comes after the rapper was recently hospitalized for dehydration and exhaustion, as reported by TMZ. Lil Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, expressed his regret at being unable to take the stage but prioritizes his health and well-being above all else. Despite the setbacks, the artist remains positive and is looking forward to resuming his performances as soon as he receives medical clearance.

“Since I’m still awaiting to get full clearance from my doctors to travel and perform again, I have no other choice but to cancel my headlining Rolling Loud performance.,” Durk said in a statement to Akademiks. “While I’m home resting, I am looking forward to my two homecoming shows on the 11th & 12th in Chicago. For the rest of the country, I’ll be announcing new dates soon. #StillHealing”

Despite the unfortunate circumstances leading to the tour’s postponement, there are still some bright spots for fans. Five of Lil Durk’s shows remain unaffected by the cancellation. Among the unaffected performances are two hometown shows set to take place at Chicago’s United Center, with one of them being an appearance at 107.5 WGCI Summer Jam on August 12.