2019 has been an amazing year for Nigerian artistes. Receiving recognition both home and abroad, Nigerian artists and their music have sailed the waves of international storms.
This year alone, Nigeria has experienced austere times too tough to describe. However, her citizens have maintained healthy and resilient attitudes in pursuing great success.
The entertainment industry is an aspect of the Nigerian economy that has thrived nonetheless. Meet some notable Nigerian young artistes who have been able to command international recognition against all odds
1. Asa
Bukola Elemide, popularly known as Asa, is one of the few Nigerian artistes that thrived overseas early in life. The female Nigerian artiste is famous for her unique and exceptional style of music. Asa, who came into limelight in 2007, has continued to succeed as a recording artist.
She has dropped three ‘hot’ studio albums and a live album. The Nigerian-French singer and songwriter has been able to quietly find a haven for herself by her distinct style of meaningful music. Currently signed to Naïve records, a French record label, Asa has won lots of awards and has enjoyed international ratings.
2. Wizkid
Ayodeji Balogun also known as Wizkid is one of Nigeria’s favourite entertainers. This is because of his influence in international roles. Wizkid has been on a quest for global recognition since he began some years back.
He recently got an endorsement deal with Ciroc, which was worth millions. Some international artists that have starred together with Wizkid to mention a few are French Montana, Ty Dolla $ign, Beyonce, Future, Chris Brown, Kayla, Drake, Ale and Tinie Tempah
3. Tiwa Savage
Popular Nigerian singer, Tiwa Savage is a force to reckon with both in Nigeria and outside the shores of the country. The singer is one of the most successful female artistes in Nigeria. Tiwa Savage, who lived overseas for some time, started as a backup singer for lots of American musicians.
Recently, the Mavin Queen had featured several international artistes, especially when Jay-Z’s Roc Nation added her to its list. In 2018, she delivered a performance at the Global Citizen Awards. The same event has hosted international performers like Pharell Williams, Ed Sheeran, and Beyonce.
4. Burna Boy
Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy is locally and internationally famous. Burna Boy has witnessed indescribable feats of success as many international artistes have shown love for his music. Kourtney Kardashian and Rihanna are some of these.
Burna had a concert in London at the O2 arenas. The tickets completely sold out in a couple of hours. Kanye West recently titled his album ‘Ye’ after one of Burna’s most popular tracks.
5. Davido
David Adedeji Adeleke, ‘Omo Baba Olowo’ (OBO) as Nigerians fondly call him; is one of the Nigerian artists that has gone international. A graduate of Babcock University, the music star who is better known as Davido has enjoyed collaborations with international music artists.
Davido‘s list of collaborators includes Mafizikolo, Young Thug, Rae Sremmurd, Trey Songs, Nasty C, and Meek Mill. He has been linked to French Montana and Kent Jones as well as DJ Khaled.
The young artiste got his massive fame internationally when a famous international entertainment company ‘SONY’ signed him. He also emerged best for the second time as the Best International Act at the BET Awards in California, United States.
