The year 2024 was a significant one for the Nigerian music industry, marked by the emergence of new artists and the production of numerous hit songs. Amidst this vibrant landscape, several fresh talents emerged, delivering exceptional music that resonated with audiences. Let’s look at the breakout artists who introduced us to memorable classics and chart-topping hits this year.
Llona
The year 2024 was a pivotal one for Llona and his music career. His music reached a wider audience, touching on themes of emotions, mental health struggles, and the bustle of life, which resonated with many listeners.
His debut project, “Homeless,” was also released this year, featuring songs such as ‘Can’t Breathe,’ ‘Cold War,’ and ‘Comforter.’ With his Spotify artist wrap data showing 1.76 million listeners, 37 million streams, and his music reaching over 182 countries just in 2024, it’s clear how much of a breakthrough he achieved this year.
Ears are no strangers to the name Ayo Maff, also referred to as ‘Omo Owo,’ a term he has used in many of his songs. Ayo Maff emerged as one of the new artists who truly shone in 2024. His music was introduced to many through ‘Dealer,’ a track that came out in the first quarter of the year. Since then, Ayo Maff has effortlessly delivered more music to us, with a solid debut EP and multiple shows, including opening for Asake’s tour at the O2 Arena.
Aside from ‘Dealer,’ Ayo Maff also has ‘7 Days,’ ‘Are You There,’ ‘Last Week,’ and ‘2 Dollar’ to his credit. He has also been featured on Lil Kesh’s ‘Vex For U,’ Larry Gaaga’s ‘Fountain,’ and more. Racking up 1.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify shows just how much Ayo Maff has grown since his breakout this year.
TML Vibez
After being introduced in late 2023 as the newest member of Seyi Vibez’s label, Vibez Inc, TML Vibez has constantly been on the radar. From his debut EP Timileyin to his features on his label’s projects, he has consistently impressed.
His hit song “Where I Am From” was the track that truly brought his name to the limelight. This inspirational tune for motivation has made him a voice of the streets.
Brown Joel, Boypee, and Hyce
The success of “Ogechi” paved the way for an exciting remix featuring the renowned artist Davido, which significantly boosted its popularity and introduced the trio to a broader audience. Their journey in music this year showcases their talent and potential for even greater achievements in the future, which we are looking forward to.
Muyeez
Muyeez is the artist who captured our hearts immediate
ly with his first song, ‘Instagram,’ released on April 30th, 2024. This collaboration with his label boss, Seyi Vibez, not only showcased their chemistry but also introduced the world to a melodic talent.
‘Instagram’ by Muyeez became one of the songs in 2024 with a heavy replay value. He continued to capitalize on his newfound fame with his self-titled EP ‘Muyeez,’ featuring standout tracks like ‘Barnabas’ and ‘Instagram.’ His debut EP was quickly followed by ‘Hat-Trick,’ which features guests such as Seyi Vibez, Reekado Banks, TML Vibez, Shallipopi, and Billion Star.
Kaestyle
Many got to know Kaestyle and his music better this year with his breakout viral single ‘Dealer.’ Kaestyle was already gaining traction with ‘Egberi,’ his super afro-drill hardcore song. Not long after, a verse from ‘Dealer’ was taking over social media and TikTok until its official release on May 17th.
This song spread his name widely, leading to a remix with Kizz Daniel and ultimately the release of his EP, Another Style, which features guest artist 6lack.
Taves
One would definitely agree that the year 2024 was the year we got to see newcomers crafting sounds for the future. Taves stands firm among the 2024 breakout stars.
The singer-songwriter gave us something fresh with “Folake,” which became an instant sensation with an addictive vibe that just can’t escape the mind. He didn’t stop there but delivered a solid body of work,
Are You Listening, which includes lead hit singles “Folake,” “In The City,” “Apology,” and “CWT” featuring Bnxn.
Fido 
Fido is one of those rare artists who burst into the music industry with remarkable impact. He came into the limelight through his first official song, which became a hit and went viral everywhere. That song is ‘Awolowo,’ a slow tempo track with addictive melodies.
Fido has gone on to create a remix of the song with superstar Tiwa Savage and an international remix version with Colombian star Kapo.
In 2025, we look forward to more tunes from Fido.
Firstklas
At the beginning of 2024, Firstklas came with a new song that introduced a unique sound and style, mixing cultural musical elements with Gen Z vibes. The song, ‘Gen-Z Fuji,’ immediately intrigued listeners with its fusion of genres.
Firstklas didn’t stop there but continued to deliver more music, including a part 2 of ‘Gen-Z Fuji’ featuring the talented Terry Apala, and more songs in his Gen-Z Series like ‘Gen-Z Faaji’ and ‘Gen-Z Arewa.’ It’s been a good year for Firstklas, with tours around the country and a new joint EP with ILIYA ENTERTAINMENT, based in Northern Nigeria.
Fola
Fola really came in as a sleek artist, blending his voice with melodies, especially on his hit song “Alone,” where he sings about his love interest and all the passion within him.
It is interesting to see him use his voice and his well-descriptive lyricism to paint vivid pictures for listeners. Signed to Bella Shmurda’s record label, Dangbana Republik, he followed up with his debut EP, What A Feeling,rounding up a successful year.