We've all heard about the exploits of global superstars Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, P-Square, Tuface, and the like. Afropop has become a global genre and they have been at the center of it all.

For about a decade, they've plied their trade and become legends. As incredible as they have been, it's even more exciting to see a new crop of stars following in their footsteps. Let's talk about some of my favorites...

My Top Ten of the New Generation

Nigerian music is finally getting the global recognition it deserves with megastars Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid leading the charge. Some have wondered whether this growth is sustainable, though. In my opinion, the new generation of emerging stars has settled any fears of unsustainability. These are my top ten new generation artists...

Rema

Signed to Don Jazzy's Mavin Records, Rema is one of the top artists of the new generation. With his different style called Afro rave, Rema has already built up a big audience without even releasing his debut album yet.

Dumebi, his first hit single, blew him up all over the country, but his star status was secured when he released Soundgasm and Bounce. These two songs have racked up streams and views all over the country. Still young and already a star, Rema is one to look out for.

Fireboy

After two high quality albums in LTG and Apollo, Fireboy has cemented his place at the top of the new generation ladder. He first introduced himself to the world with his maiden hit single called Jealous, where he displayed his incredible storytelling and singing skills. Shortly after that, Fireboy got signed by YBNL Records where he got even better under the tutelage of Olamide.

Several years later now, Fireboy has become a global star. He's filled up the O2 Arena and many other venues for concerts and built a fanbase beyond the borders of Nigeria. With two critically acclaimed albums out and a bright future ahead, I'm excited to see what Fireboy does next.

The Cavemen

The Cavemen are the proof that Nigerians are not restricted to one style of music. Made up of two brothers, a bassist and a drummer, they've become a fan favorite with their high life music and skillful playing. The Cavemen recorded and produced their debut album, Roots, in their living room and released it in 2020 to some public acclaim.

They're better known for their live shows and performances. They've played all around the country and usually enjoy smaller, cozier audiences. Today, they're a far cry from recording an entire album in a living room.

Ladipoe

Ladipoe is the first rapper on our list and is also signed to Mavins Records like Rema. This young rapper is no upcoming artists, however, already regarded as a top five Nigerian rapper.

His creative wordplays, thought-provoking punchlines, and cool delivery style have endeared him to rap fans all over the country. Ladipoe first entered the public eye when he was featured on a song by Show Dem Camp called Feel Alright.

Two years later, Ladipoe released his first album called Talk About Poe to critical success. He followed this up with hit singles, Know You with Simi and Feeling featuring Buju. By the time he released his Providence EP, Ladipoe had become a household name among rap fans.

Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr is yet another Mavins Records signee making waves. After a few singles that never really blew up, Ayra Starr went on to release her debut album called Ayra Starr, and that's where everything changed for her. She became an instant hit in the country and she cemented her place on this list with an even more successful second project called 19 and Dangerous.

As young as she is, Ayra Starr is already one of the most recognizable names in the new generation. She doesn't have the global recognition of Fireboy yet, but you can tell it's coming.

Tems

Tems is, without a doubt, the biggest female artist in Nigeria today. She first burst onto the scene when she released Try Me in 2019. Since then, she's gone from strength to strength. Her first EP, For Broken Ears, didn't just win her fans in Nigeria, but all over the world. She got her big break, and it was big indeed.

In 2020, she collaborated with megastar, Wizkid, and released Essence. That song went on to become the first Nigerian single to be certified platinum by the RIAA. Tems has received praise from global stars like Adele and Drake, who even featured her in his last album, Certified Boy Lover. As we await her second, the anticipation is high to see whether she can top her past achievements.

Bnxn

Formerly known as Buju, Bnxn became popular after releasing Lenu in 2019 under Burna Boy 's Spaceship Records. His stock has grown in the last two years with a number of well-done features. Ladipoe's Feeling, Wizkid's Mood, and Timaya's Cold Outside are prime examples. Recently separating from Spaceship Records after a feud, we're all waiting for Bnxn's next move.

Asake

Asake dominated the Nigerian music industry in 2022. Just signed on by Olamide's YBNL in February, 2022, Asake has had a wonderful year. His debut album called Mr. Money With the Vibe capped a wonderful year, and he's followed his recording success with tours all over the world, selling out the O2 Arena in the process. The most exciting thing about this guy is that he's only getting started.

Blaqbonez

Only the second rapper on this list, Blaqbonez came into public eye in 2019 when he featured fellow new generation artist, Oxlade on a single called Mamiwota. He followed that success by signing with Chocolate City and releasing his first album, Bad Boy Blaq. It was an resounding success, a much-needed win for Nigerian rap.

Blaqbonez continues to grow bigger today. His second album, Sex Over Love, showcased his versatility and ability to switch between genres. He's definitely one to look out for.

Show Dem Camp

This indie rap band is fast becoming a household name in Nigeria. It's made up of two rappers who've been working hard to break into public acclaim since 2010. They finally cracked it about seven years later, and have been steadily growing since.

After releasing ten albums, Show Dem Camp is finally reaping the rewards of their efforts. They're not young like Rema or Ayta Starr, but this is only the beginning of their success. It's especially meaningful to me because they've stayed indie throughout. I look forward to many more years of their peculiar rap style.

Final Thoughts

Looking at this lineup packed with talent, I'm convinced that Nigerian music is in good hands. As I watch and enjoy the careers of the big guns like Burna Boy, it's even more exciting to see the development of this new generation of artists.