Breaking Through the Sound Waves: Top 10 Breakout Artistes of 2024
The Nigerian music industry has always been a melting pot of creativity, innovation, and cultural expression. In 2024, this vibrant ecosystem witnessed the emergence of new talents who have not only shaped the music narrative locally but also extended Nigeria’s cultural influence on a global scale. These artiste have brought fresh energy, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats, Afro-soul, R&B, and genre-fusing sounds. Here’s a deep dive into the top 10 breakout artiste of 2024, whose voices are shaping the future of Nigerian music.
1. Ayo Maff: The Hook King
“Ayo Maff gan gan!” If there’s one thing Ayo Maff knows how to do, it’s creating songs for the streets. His catchy hooks and high-energy beats have made him a staple on Nigerian charts. His single, Dealer, became a viral sensation, dominating TikTok and Instagram reels. Ayo Maff’s ability to balance commercial appeal with artistic credibility has made him a favorite among both fans and critics. His collaborations with Afrobeats heavyweights further solidify his growing influence in the industry.
2. TML Vibez: The Voice of the People
TML of Vibez Incorporated! Some call him Seyi Vibez’s boy because they claim he underwent a certain training and that’s why he’s been able to hold the music industry hostage. His Ep Timileyin 2.0 shot him into the limelight. Only a few artiste can connect with their audiences the way TML Vibez does. His relatable lyrics, which often touch on everyday struggles and triumphs, have made him a voice for many. Known for his dynamic stage presence, TML Vibez has performed at major events, leaving an indelible mark on audiences. With plans for a debut album underway, TML Vibez is poised to take his career to even greater heights.
3. Llona: The Storyteller of Hearts
What’s your reaction when you hear “Boy Llonaaaa”?
Llona’s rise to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. His debut album, Homeless, not only showcased vocal prowess but also cemented his position as one of the most profound storytellers in the Nigerian music industry. With tracks like Gangsta Love Letter, Llona captured the hearts of fans with lyrics that delve deep into themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience. Critics have hailed him as the voice of modern Nigerian youth, blending soulful melodies with emotionally charged storytelling. His performances at major events, including a sold-out concert in Lagos, solidified his status as a star on the rise.
4. Bhadboi Oml: The People’s Prince
Bhadboi Oml is the voice of the streets, bringing energetic Afropop anthems that have become staples at parties and clubs nationwide. His breakthrough single, Testimony, skyrocketed on streaming platforms, amassing millions of plays within weeks. Known for his raw lyrics and infectious energy, Bhadboi Oml embodies the unfiltered passion of Nigeria’s youth. His collaborations with established acts have not only elevated his profile but also earned him co-signs from industry heavyweights, making him a promising contender for next year’s awards season.
5. Fola: The Soulful Crooner
Fola is bringing Afro-soul back to life with his soothing voice and heartfelt songs. His hit single featuring Bhadboi Oml Alone is about self-discovery and has touched the hearts of many listeners. Whether in the studio or performing live, Fola’s music feels real and personal. A beacon of Afro-soul in a time when the genre craves authenticity and depth. His smooth vocals, combined with heartfelt lyrics makes every song a journey of emotion. His live performances, often accompanied by acoustic instruments, have become his trademark, earning him recognition as a true artiste. Fola’s ability to create music that feels both intimate and universal has positioned him as a rising star to watch.
6. Fido: The Dancefloor King
Fido’s entrance into the Nigerian music scene came with a bang. First of all, he held the Nigerian TikTok scene hostage, with many content creators showcasing their creativity while trying to come up with the best visual representation of his hit single Awolowo. His infectious beats and danceable anthems have made him a favorite among DJs and partygoers. Fido’s knack for creating music that blends Afrobeats with electronic and experimental sounds has earned him the title of a genre disruptor. His futuristic take on Afrobeats sets him apart in a crowded industry.
7. Muyeez: Vibez Incorporated Baby
Another Seyi Vibez’s boy (So you know he deserves to be on this list). It’s safe to refer to Muyeez as a male Arya Star (if you know you know); he shot into limelight at just 16 years of age with his hit single Instagram featuring Seyi Vibez. His velvety vocals and deeply personal lyrics have made him a standout act in 2024. Tracks like Instagram have garnered him acclaim for their emotional depth and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from both traditional Nigerian sounds and global R&B trends, Muyeez’s music bridges the gap between local and international audiences, making him a unique voice in the industry.
8. Rybeena: The Cultural Custodian
Rybeena’s music is a celebration of culture and identity.A rising Nigerian music artist, He recently gained widespread recognition with his viral track ID.ME, which debuted in October 2023 and quickly soared to the number one spot on the Apple Music Top 25 Lagos chart. This success is attributed to both the track’s quality and strategic distribution by Dvpper Digital. Following this breakthrough, he released a self-titled EP and another viral single; Agba Singing in 2024. Rybeena’s collaboration with Dapper Music & Entertainment marks the beginning of a promising alliance, as the EP reflects his talent and potential to win over new audiences. This project not only captures his unique voice but also serves as an inspiration to others pursuing their breakthrough
9. Taves: The Experimentalist
Taves is a sonic risk-taker, pushing the boundaries of what Afrobeats can be. His genre-bending approach has resulted in tracks that feel fresh and innovative. The rising Nigerian Afrobeat artist from Ibadan has been gaining widespread recognition with his unique sound and creative visual presentations. At just 20 years old, Taves has made a strong impression with his latest hit, Folake, which has garnered over 3 million views across various platforms. The music video, directed by Tse and Tundcuts, blends nostalgic 1950s aesthetics with a modern Afro-R&B twist, showcasing Taves’ vocal talent and storytelling ability.
He has been described as the “Prince of Ibadan” and “Nigerian Weekend,” with his artistic approach praised for pushing the boundaries of the Afrobeat genre. His journey has been significantly influenced by BNXN (formerly Buju), who has mentored him on his path to global recognition
10. Kaestyle: The Versatile Virtuoso
Kaestyle is a name that’s becoming synonymous with versatility. From heartfelt ballads to upbeat club tracks, Kaestyle’s ability to excel in multiple genres has made him a standout act of 2024. He is a talented Nigerian artiste known for his unique blend of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B. He has been in the music scene for nearly five years and is signed to Keyqaad, the label behind other notable artists like Omah Lay. Kaestyle gained widespread attention with his debut EP, Kae’s Study (2022), which featured songs like Moving Mad and True Love, showcasing his versatility and relatable storytelling.
In 2024, Kaestyle released another EP, Another Style, which highlighted his growth and ability to mix genres, such as hip-hop and Indigenous music. Tracks like Egberi and My Dealer—featuring Omah Lay—cemented his place in the mainstream Nigerian music scene. His collaborations with artists like Victony, BNXN, and PsychoYP, as well as a remix of Egberi with Grammy-nominated artist 6lack, underscore his rising influence internationally
The Future is Bright
The breakout artiste of 2024 have not only enriched the Nigerian music landscape but have also proven that the future of music is in excellent hands. With their creativity, passion, and drive, these stars are redefining what it means to be a Nigerian artiste in the global music arena. As they continue to break barriers and achieve new milestones, one thing is certain: their journey has only just begun.