Nigerian musicians have established themselves on the international scene in the vibrant and diversified world of music, enthralling audiences with their distinctive sounds and abilities.
Through prestigious awards, these outstanding musicians have attained not only enormous popularity in their own nation but also recognition on a global scale.
Nigerian music has experienced a meteoric rise in recent years, transcending cultural boundaries and captivating listeners worldwide.
The fusion of traditional African rhythms with contemporary genres such as Afrobeat, Afrobeats, and Afro-pop has created a distinct and infectious sound that resonates with audiences across the globe.
Afriqpulsetv focuses on the remarkable achievements of Nigerian music stars who have triumphed on the global scene, showcasing their immense talent and the impact they have made in the music industry.
1. Wizkid
One of the brightest stars to emerge from Nigeria is Wizkid, whose real name is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun. Wizkid’s music journey began at a young age, and he quickly rose to prominence with his captivating vocals and captivating stage presence.
He gained international recognition with his hit single “Ojuelegba,” which garnered critical acclaim and caught the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide.
Wizkid’s extraordinary talent did not go unnoticed, and he subsequently collaborated with renowned international artists such as Drake and Beyoncé, further solidifying his global appeal.
His collaborations on the chart-topping songs “One Dance” and “Brown Skin Girl” showcased his versatility and helped him secure numerous international awards.
Wizkid got a Bet Award for Best International Act: Africa in 2012. In addition, Wizkid, Beyonce, Blue Ivy, and SAINt JHN shared the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Music Video for Beyonce’s breakthrough track from the album, Brown Skin Girl. He and TEMs won “Best Collaboration” at the 2021 Soul Train Music Awards in recognition of their song “Essence.”
2. Burna Boy
Another Nigerian music star who has carved his name in the global music industry is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy. With his powerful vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, Burna Boy has become an icon for African music on the international stage.
Burna Boy’s music transcends borders and speaks to people from all walks of life, addressing socio-political issues and celebrating African heritage.
The BET Awards, where Burna Boy won for Best International Act in 2019 and 2020, gave him his first notable worldwide recognition.
The Best African Act award went to Burna Boy at the 2019 MTV Europe Music Awards. For his timeless masterpiece, “Twice As Tall,” Burna Boy also won his first Grammy for Best Global Music Album.
3. Davido
Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, is a Nigerian music sensation who has made waves both locally and internationally. Known for his energetic performances and catchy tunes, Davido has amassed a massive following and achieved remarkable success in the music industry.
His hit single “Fall” became a global anthem and amassed millions of streams, solidifying his position as one of Nigeria’s most influential music stars. Davido has been recognized with several international awards, including the BET Award for Best International Act, further cementing his status as a trailblazer.
In 2012, he was recognized as the Best Male Newcomer at the KORA Awards. In 2014, he won accolades from MTV for Best Male West Africa Artist of the Year and BET for Best International Act: Africa. Additionally, he has received nominations for the MOBO and Soul Train awards.
4. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage, often referred to as the Queen of Afrobeats, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress who has taken the music industry by storm. With her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, Tiwa Savage has captivated audiences worldwide and earned a dedicated fan base.
Her debut album “Once Upon a Time” showcased her versatility and musical prowess, earning her multiple awards and nominations. Tiwa Savage’s impact on the international music scene has been significant, and she continues to push boundaries with her unique style and empowering lyrics.
5. TEMS
Nigerian rising talent, Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as TEMS, shared the Best Collaboration prize at the Bet Awards 2022 with Wizkid and Justin Bieber. They won praise for their remix of Wizkid’s song “Essence” from the album 2020: Made in Lagos.
The song was already well-known in Nigeria, but the collaboration increased its popularity and allowed it to climb the Billboard Top 10 Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The “Best Collaboration” trophy at the 2021 Soul Train Music Awards was likewise won by TEMS and Wizkid. TEMS is also the first female musician from Nigeria to win this category’s Bet Award.
