The 2010s were an important decade for Nigerian music, marked by a growing international audience. It laid the foundation for Afrobeats’ introduction to the world and reshaped not just Nigeria’s but Africa’s music industry. Our music has always been rooted in storytelling, tales that reflect our lived experiences or those we’ve witnessed. And so, one thing remained constant for music produced in this decade: the presence of rich, narrative-driven lyrics in the music.

Before we begin, it’s worth noting that this post provides a general overview of Nigerian mainstream music in the 2010s. It is in no way exhaustive, he presence of rich, narrative-driven lyrics in the music. So, if your fave doesn’t appear here, know that it’s not for lack of impact; it’s simply impossible to name everyone. 

Afrobeats Popularity

Beyond its colorful roots and the politically charged legacy of Fela Kuti, Afrobeats was on a steady course throughout the 2010s. It became a symbol of pride for Nigerians, something to present to the world, an insignia of our authenticity, vibrance, and brilliance. For Africans in the diaspora, it was a familiar echo of home. For everyone else, it was something entirely new: bold, fresh, and like no other. 

Music wasn’t the only cultural export getting attention; Nollywood also flourished, largely within the continent. However, Nigerian music was on a roll, and Afrobeats became a unifying sound for a new generation.

The Rise of New Pace Setters

Greatness often starts quietly; a fresh perspective, a different voice. While always honoring the trailblazers of the 2000s, the 2010s saw a new wave of stars set the pace for the future.

Wizkid

Wizkid debuted in 2011 with his Superstar under Empire Mates Entertainment (EME). Holla at Your Boy was a bop we all knew, but that was only the beginning. A single collaboration with Drake on One Dance just five years later positioned him at the heart of global pop culture.

Tekno

Tekno is a singer, songwriter, and producer who initially signed with Made Men Music Group in 2013. Consistently delivering commercially successful hits like “Duro” (2015) and “Pana” (2016), he easily became a fan favorite. His music, which he often produced himself, is characterized by catchy hooks and relatable lyrics.

Davido

There must have been something in the water in 2011, because that was also the year we got Dami Duro, Davido’s hit single, which introduced him to the Nigerian music industry. In 2016, he partnered with Sony Music’s RCA Records, one of the first Nigerian artists to secure such a global partnership. His song Fall, released in 2017, went on to become the longest-charting Nigerian pop song on Billboard and was the first Afrobeats song to be certified Gold in the U.S.

Yemi Alade

It was in 2013 that Yemi Alade was looking for “Johnny,” that song went on to become a global hit with over 100 million views on YouTube. The song became a viral sensation. From the very beginning, she dedicated herself to showcasing African heritage through her music and visuals. Today, she is arguably one of the most recognized Nigerian female artists.

Burna Boy

A blend of Afrobeats, reggae, and dancehall earned Burna Boy a strong Nigerian following early on. His breakout track “Like to Party” (2013) was just the start. International acclaim followed with African Giant (2019), establishing him as a global powerhouse.

Patoranking

The Nigerian dancehall and reggae scene had a fresh new voice, with his hit single Alubarika featuring Timaya, Patoranking made a bold entrance in 2013. His style incorporates Patois and Nigerian Pidgin English with dancehall rhythms.

Kizz Daniel

His 2014 hit single “Woju” became a nationwide anthem and marked the beginning of his impressive career. His debut album, New Era (2016), was an affirmation that he did not come to play. Kizz Daniel’s songs are infamously known for achieving remarkable commercial success. Over the years, he has built a fiercely loyal fan base.

Beyond Afrobeats: Something A Little Different

While the Afrobeats dominated, to say the decade belonged only to one sound would ignore the diversity that enriched Nigeria’s mainstream scene. Several artists explored other genres as well, proving there was room for diversity within the industry.

M.I. Abaga blends cultural references with universal hip-hop themes and is widely regarded as Nigeria’s top hip-hop act. His style is both locally relevant and globally appealing, and he has maintained his status as a lyrical genius through the years.

Brymo‘s music defies easy categorization. Fusing alternative rock, soul, folk, and Yoruba musical elements, his sound is rich, melancholic, and deeply expressive. His music often explores love, identity, and the human condition, crafted far from the mainstream Afrobeats sound.

Simi brought softness to the 2010s, with her vocals firmly rooted in R&B and soul. Her songs often feature mid-tempo grooves and tender storytelling, with a charming entwine of English and Yoruba reflecting on love and everyday experiences.

Indigenous Rap: Bold, Loud, and Authentic

A standout movement during the decade was the rise of indigenous rap. These artists proudly embraced their roots, combining language, identity, and rhythm into something powerful and commercially viable.

Phyno

From producer to rapper, Phyno became a leading voice in indigenous rap by merging Igbo with hip-hop, highlife, and Afrobeats. His 2012 collaboration with Olamide on “Ghost Mode” won “Best Collabo” at the 2013 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. He followed it with “Man of the Year (Obago),” which earned “Best Rap Single” at The Headies the same year.

Olamide

With undeniable street cred, Olamide led the Yoruba rap movement with swagger and flair. In 2012, he founded YBNL Nation, which signed several breakout acts. Known for mixing Yoruba, Pidgin, and hip-hop, his influence was and still is massive.

 

Our 2010s Playlist

• Ice Prince ft. Brymo – Oleku 
• Burna Boy – Anybody 
• Tekno – Duro 
• Simi – Joromi 
• Illbliss ft. Phyno – Anam Achi Kwanu 
• Kizz Daniel – Woju 
• Davido – Dami Duro 
• Brymo – Kosayami 
• Wizkid – Ojuelegba 
• P-Square – Ifeoma 
• M.I ft. 2Baba – Nobody 
• Wande Coal – You Bad 
• Lil Kesh – Shoki 
• Phyno ft. Olamide – Fada Fada 
• Timaya – Sexy Ladies 
• D’banj – Oliver Twist 
• Patoranking ft. Sarkodie – No Kissing Baby 
• Tiwa Savage ft. Don Jazzy – Eminado 
• Yemi Alade – Johnny 
• Wande Coal – Who Born the Maga 
• Brymo – Ara 
• Olamide – Money 
• Burna Boy – Like to Party 
• Mavins – Dorobucci 
• Runtown – Mad Over You 
• Phyno – Ezege