From delivering memorable music projects, receiving international accolades, collaborating with influential global artists, to gracing some of the world’s most prestigious stages, Nigerian artists have continued to make a significant impact with their art.
As the unmistakable ‘Nigerian’ sound gains more recognition among music enthusiasts worldwide, here are 10 artists who have made their mark on global stages:
1. Rema:
The ‘Calm Down’ sensation, Rema, received well-deserved acclaim when he performed at the recent Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris. This wasn’t Rema’s first international performance, as earlier in February 2023, he showcased his talent at the NBA All-Star Game and the 2023 Rolling Loud music festival in the Netherlands.
2. Davido:
Born as David Adeleke, the renowned Nigerian artist Davido took the stage at the 2022 FIFA World Cup finals. In 2023, he graced the BET Awards and the Professional Footballers’ Association Awards, achieving a historic milestone as the first African artist to perform at the latter event.
3. Tiwa Savage:
In May 2023, Tiwa Savage achieved a historic musical feat when she performed at the coronation of King Charles III in England. The event garnered over 18 million online streams and an estimated 20,000 live attendees.
4. Burna Boy:
Known as the ‘African Giant,’ Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, has left his mark on numerous global stages, including the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final, the 2023 NBA All-Star Game, the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, the 2023 Coachella festival, and the 2023 Glastonbury festival.
5. Wizkid:
Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, captivated audiences with his performances at the 2022 World Tennis League, Gamers8, and the 2023 Rolling Loud and Glastonbury Festivals.
6. Tems:
Grammy-award-winning artist Temilade Openiyi, aka Tems, graced the stage at the 2023 NBA All-Star Game and enthralled the crowd at the 2022 Glastonbury Festival.
7. Fireboy:
Former YBNL artist Fireboy took the stage at the 2022 BET Awards, where he performed his hit tracks ‘Playboy’ and ‘Peru.’
8. CKay:
In 2022, Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani, aka CKay, mesmerized fans at the 2022 Coachella music festival, performing his hit single ‘Love Nwantiti’ to the delight of many.
9. Seun Kuti:
Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti showcased his talent at the Coachella music festival in 2020, marking his second appearance at the event. He and his band, Egypt 80, had previously performed at the festival in 2012.
10. Omah Lay and Oxlade:
This dynamic duo left their mark at the 2023 World Streetball Championship in Paris. Oxlade serenaded the audience with his smash-hit ‘Ku Lo Sa,’ while Omah Lay delivered ‘Soso’ to the fans at the event.
