Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Evolution of Afrobeats
- Criteria for Selection
- Top 10 Afrobeats Artists to Watch in 2024
- The Impact of Afrobeats on Global Music Trends
- Conclusion
- References
Introduction
Afrobeats, a genre that has taken the global music scene by storm, continues to evolve, blending rich African rhythms with contemporary sounds. The genre, deeply rooted in Nigerian music traditions, has become a dominant force in both African and global music markets. As we look ahead to 2024, a new wave of Nigerian artists is poised to push the boundaries of Afrobeats even further. This article highlights the top 10 Afrobeats artists to watch in 2024, showcasing their unique contributions to Naija music and the broader music trends they are set to influence.
The Evolution of Afrobeats
Afrobeats originated in Nigeria in the late 20th century, drawing inspiration from a variety of genres, including traditional African music, highlife, and American funk and jazz. Over the years, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido leading the charge. The genre’s success is not just confined to Africa but has also made significant inroads into the mainstream music scenes of Europe, the United States, and beyond.
In recent years, the sound of Afrobeats has become more diverse, incorporating elements from genres such as dancehall, hip-hop, and electronic dance music (EDM). This evolution has allowed it to reach a wider audience, resulting in more collaborations between Nigerian artists and international stars. As Afrobeats continues to evolve, so does its list of rising stars who are redefining the genre with their innovative approaches.
Criteria for Selection
The artists featured in this list have been selected based on several criteria:
- Musical Talent: The artist’s vocal ability, songwriting skills, and overall musicianship.
- Innovation: How the artist is pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats and introducing new elements to the genre.
- Global Appeal: The artist’s ability to resonate with audiences beyond Nigeria and Africa.
- Consistency: The artist’s track record of releasing hits and maintaining relevance in the music industry.
- Future Potential: The artist’s potential to make a significant impact in 2024 and beyond.
Top 10 Afrobeats Artists to Watch in 2024
Rema
Rema, signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, has been a dominant force in the Afrobeats scene since his debut in 2019. Known for his unique blend of Afrobeat, trap, and pop, Rema has consistently delivered hits like “Dumebi,” “Calm Down,” and “Bounce.” His debut album, Rave & Roses, received critical acclaim, further solidifying his position as one of the leading voices in modern Afrobeats. With his international appeal and innovative sound, Rema is set to take over 2024, expanding his reach across global music markets.
Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr, another star from Mavin Records, has quickly risen to fame with her soulful voice and powerful lyrics. Her debut single “Away” and the subsequent album 19 & Dangerous showcased her versatility and potential. Hits like “Bloody Samaritan” and “Rush” have made her a household name in Nigeria and beyond. Ayra’s music blends Afrobeats with elements of R&B, creating a sound that resonates with both local and international audiences. As she continues to release new music, 2024 is set to be a breakthrough year for Ayra Starr.
Asake
Asake, also known as Mr. Money, has become synonymous with street anthems in Nigeria. His unique fusion of Fuji, street-hop, and Afrobeats has set him apart from his peers. Asake’s tracks like “Sungba,” “Organise,” and “Joha” have become staples at parties and clubs across the country. His energetic performances and relatable lyrics have earned him a massive fan base. With his debut album Mr. Money with the Vibe already making waves, Asake is poised to dominate the Afrobeats scene in 2024.
Oxlade
Oxlade’s smooth voice and emotional delivery have made him one of the most sought-after artists in Afrobeats. Since his breakout hit “Away,” Oxlade has continued to captivate audiences with tracks like “Ojuju” and “Ku Lo Sa.” His music blends Afrobeats with elements of R&B and highlife, creating a sound that is both fresh and timeless. Oxlade’s collaborations with international artists and his ability to craft hits consistently make him an artist to watch in 2024.
Tems
Tems has quickly risen to international stardom, thanks to her powerful voice and soulful music. Her collaboration with Wizkid on the global hit “Essence” earned her widespread acclaim and a Grammy nomination. Tems has also worked with global superstars like Drake and Future, further cementing her status as an international artist. With her unique sound that blends Afrobeats, R&B, and soul, Tems is set to continue her global takeover in 2024, releasing more music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML, signed to YBNL Nation, has consistently delivered hits that blend Afrobeats with elements of R&B, pop, and soul. His debut album Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Jealous” and “Scatter.” Fireboy’s sophomore album Apollo continued this trend, with tracks like “Tattoo” and “Champion” showcasing his versatility. Fireboy’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music has earned him a loyal fan base, making him one of the artists to watch in 2024.
Joeboy
Joeboy, another breakout star from Mr Eazi’s emPawa Africa initiative, has become known for his catchy hooks and relatable lyrics. His debut album Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic featured several hit singles like “Baby,” “Beginning,” and “Celebration.” Joeboy’s music blends Afrobeats with elements of pop and dancehall, creating a sound that appeals to a wide audience. As he continues to release new music, Joeboy is set to remain a dominant force in Afrobeats in 2024.
Buju (BNXN)
Buju, now known as BNXN, has made a name for himself with his smooth voice and clever lyrics. His collaborations with major artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy and Olamide have highlighted his lyrical prowess and versatility. With hit tracks such as “Finesse,” “Kilometer,” and “Mood,” BNXN has demonstrated his ability to craft memorable hooks and deliver powerful performances. His sound, which blends Afrobeats with elements of Afro-fusion, R&B, and dancehall, resonates with a wide audience. As he continues to release new music and gain international recognition, BNXN is a key artist to watch in 2024.
Victony
Victony has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting new voices in Afrobeats. Known for his melodic sound and emotional lyrics, Victony gained significant attention with his breakout single “Holy Father,” a collaboration with Mayorkun. Tracks like “Kolomental” and “Soweto” further showcase his ability to blend Afrobeats with elements of R&B and trap. Victony’s fresh approach and distinctive sound make him a standout artist in the genre. As he continues to release new music and build his fan base, Victony is poised for a breakthrough year in 2024.
Ruger
Ruger has quickly made a name for himself with his distinctive sound and eye-catching style. Known for his signature eyepatch and Afro-dancehall fusion, Ruger has delivered hits such as “Bounce,” “Dior,” and “Asiwaju.” His debut project, Pandemic EP, was a significant success, and his follow-up project, The Second Wave, solidified his position in the industry. Ruger’s unique blend of Afrobeats and dancehall rhythms creates an infectious sound that stands out in the genre. With his growing fan base and international recognition, Ruger is set to dominate the Afrobeats scene in 2024.
The Impact of Afrobeats on Global Music Trends
The influence of Afrobeats on global music is profound and far-reaching. Originally rooted in Nigeria, Afrobeats has become a global phenomenon, influencing artists across various genres and regions. The genre’s infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and vibrant energy have made it a favorite on streaming platforms and in clubs worldwide. The rise of Afrobeats is also reflected in the increasing number of international collaborations, global music festivals featuring Afrobeats artists, and its growing presence on global music charts.
As Afrobeats continues to expand its reach, it is likely to shape future music trends and inspire new genres. The genre’s ability to blend with various musical styles while retaining its distinct African roots is a testament to its versatility and global appeal. In 2024, we can expect Afrobeats to continue influencing mainstream music, with more collaborations and innovative sounds emerging from the genre.
Conclusion
The Afrobeats scene is buzzing with fresh talent and innovative sounds, making 2024 an exciting year for the genre. The top 10 artists highlighted in this article represent the future of Afrobeats, each bringing their unique style and perspective to the music scene. As they continue to release new music and gain international recognition, these artists are set to shape the future of Afrobeats and further elevate Naija music on the global stage.
With their distinctive sounds and growing influence, these artists are not only redefining Afrobeats but also setting new standards for the genre. As fans and industry insiders eagerly anticipate their upcoming projects, it’s clear that the future of Afrobeats is in good hands. Keep an eye on these rising stars as they continue to make waves in 2024 and beyond.
References
- Okoye, I. (2023). “The Rise of Afrobeats: How Nigerian Music Took Over the World.” Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.pulse.ng
- Ajayi, T. (2023). “10 Nigerian Artists to Watch in 2024.” The Native Magazine. Retrieved from https://thenativemag.com
- Adeleke, J. (2023). “The Future of Afrobeats: Emerging Artists and Trends.” Guardian Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.guardian.ng
- Eze, M. (2023). “How Afrobeats is Redefining Global Music Trends.” Music in Africa. Retrieved from https://www.musicinafrica.net
- Anazia, D. (2023). “Tems and the Globalization of Afrobeats.” Vanguard Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.vanguardngr.com
