The Nigerian music industry is progressing really well, and the increasing quality of albums is a full testament to that. 2023 was no different, as we were treated to yet another flurry of fantastic full-length projects from breakout artists and heavy hitters alike. In this article, we rank the 30 best Nigerian albums of 2023. Let’s get right into it, shall we?
30. Otega – Gold
One of the major voices of street pop in Nigeria, Otega is no newcomer to fame. On his 6th album, the indigenous artist shows his range, detailing his lifestyle and the ups and downs associated with life on his level. An enjoyable offering with major highs and minor lows, as it’s obvious the artist can be complacent at times, but overall, the artist’s direction and talent are clear. It’s only a matter of time before Otega blows up majorly.
Standout Tracks – Ogo, Bizza, Gbayi, Streak (ft Enitxn), Outside.
29. Balloranking – Ghetto Gospel
Balloranking has been rightfully called the voice of the streets, like Bella Shmurda and Seyi Vibez before him. Singing majorly in the indigenous language of Yoruba, the singer has captured the hearts of many Nigerians with his distinct voice and soulful renditions of the common man’s struggles. On Ghetto Gospel, the singer remains as conscious as possible while balancing the lavish lifestyle of a modern-day pop star who came from the humblest of beginnings to create one of the best Nigerian albums of 2023.
Standout Tracks – Backwoods, Kefti, Healer (ft Bella Shmurda), We Up.
28. Oladips – Superhero Adugbo
A controversial scandal about faking his death to push numbers for his album has almost overshadowed what is a good album from one of the best rappers around currently. Calling Oladips an indigenous rapper wouldn’t be far off the mark, but he shows he’s equally adept at spitting bars in English. On Superhero Adugbo, he explores the expectations and pressure that come with fame, his humble beginnings, the loss of his father, and the journey so far.
Standout Tracks – Aniyikaye, Skusku, Allah Wallahi, Angeli????, Agba Awo Trenches
27. PyschoYP – Osapa London
Fan favorite and versatile rapper PyschoYP returned with Osapa London in 2023, following last year’s YPSZN 3. The Abuja native is famous for his ability to trap smoothly, often blending this with Afrobeats or other hip-hop sounds. And while his talent is never in doubt, on Osapa London, he sounds a bit generic. One can’t help but notice a complacency in the album curation that’s very unlike the rapper. However, while we know he can do better, the album is still classy and enjoyable because it is YP!
Standout Tracks – Lean! (ft Roma BTW, Ecee & Zaylevelten), This Country (with Jordan Knows), Stand Attention (with King Perry), AnyGadDamnTime (ft Laime).
26. Reminisce – ATSG Vol 1
Very few rappers have had the longevity of Reminisce. The self-dubbed ‘Alaga Ibile’ is one of the few that can transcend foreign and indigenous rap, with a reputation to boot and a career that extends into acting; his versatility cannot be overstated. This project is one he really made us wait for, but considering it is one of the best Nigerian albums of 2023, it’s safe to say it was worth the wait. On his fifth album, Reminisce reminds us why he’s had such a stellar career: hard, gritty, and genre-bending bars, a great roster of featured acts, and great production. Reminisce is alive; how can hip-hop be dead?
Standout Tracks – Eyes (ft Mayorkun), Hustle (ft Bnxn & D Smoke), ENKR (ft Ycee & Rhookcastle), Shina Peters (with Mohbad)
25. Erigga – Family Time
One of the most consistent rappers within the last decade, Erigga is synonymous with brilliant indigenous rap. On Family Time, the rapper shows exactly why he is one of the biggest voices in Nigerian Hip-hop. Compelling storytelling over hip-hop and trap beats, Erigga is a disciple of hip-hop and definitely one of the most talented acts doing it.
Standout Tracks – Broken in Two (ft Kyla.e), Wide Awake (with Corizo, Gee Baller, Yung6ix).
24. Tekno – The More, The Better
Tekno is a certified hitmaker whether he’s singing, writing for someone else, or producing. After bouncing back from his potentially career-ending ailment, the singer has shown no signs of slowing down. On his second album, Tekno performs in a way reminiscent of his prior chokehold on local and international audiences. Considering the negative reception of his debut full-length project, full credit must go to Tekno for swinging back with one of the best Nigerian albums of 2023. The singer hinted at creative freedom as the inspiration behind the project, and that’s what it attains. At his most creative best, Tekno reminds us why he’s such a pop star.
Standout Tracks – Peace of Mind, Lokation, Pocket, Can’t Chase
23. Seyi Vibez – Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come
Nigeria’s recent sensation Seyi Vibez has been on a roll since breaking into the limelight in 2022, releasing three albums and two Eps in one year. He is a highly versatile and creative singer who often blends Yoruba and English in his songs, establishing himself as one of the artists who have successfully bridged indigenous and international appeal. This album sees Seyi in his typical form, experimenting with various styles, including Amapiano, Afrobeats, Pop, and even the local genre of Fuji. With heavyweight features like Russ, Young Jonn, and Focalistic, he delivers a smooth project that further endears him to the public.
Standout Tracks – Dejavu, Suddenly (ft. Young Jonn), Gangsta (Remix) [ft. Russ & Jibrille], Amdallah.
22. Mr Eazi – The Evil Genius
Mr Eazi embraced all facets of himself with this album: a musician during the day and a billionaire business mogul with a billionaire wife by night. With his unique and laid-back style, Mr Eazi combines Afrobeats, Folk, R&B, and Pop music elements to deliver a soothing and calm project different from the run-of-the-mill album.
Standout Tracks – Advice, Orokoro (ft Angelique Kidjo), Jamboree (ft Tekno), Fefe Ne Fefe, Legalize
21. Rexxie – Big Time
Grammy-nominated producer Rexxie’s sophomore album Big Time reflects the mindstate he currently has. The Zanku sound pioneer has come a long way from making street hits for Naira Marley and Zlatan. Recruiting a talented roster of local and international artists and producers, the Lagos-born hitmaker delights the listener with an album reflecting his current global status.
Standout Tracks – Asiko (Big Time) [with Lojay], Dinero (ft. Alpha P & Azanti), Credit Score (ft Zlatan & NSG), Abracadabra Remix (ft Naira Marley, Skibii & Wizkid)
20. Wande Coal – Legend Or No Legend
Wande Coal is a legend, but he’s not satisfied with resting on his laurels like most legends. While his career has been filled with amazing highs and debilitating lows, Wande Coal’s talent has made sure that he’s always relevant. On his third studio album, he explores the conundrum of his legendary status and everything that revolves around his life, like love, lifestyle, faith, and money. A solid expression of how he feels, it’s clear Wande Coal isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Standout Tracks – Come My Way, Streets (ft T-pain), Kpe Paso (with Olamide), Ebelebe (ft Wizkid).
19. Crayon – Trench to Triumph
On the album opener, Calvary Kid Crayon captures the very essence of his album, detailing how the singer has struggled to become successful and is currently a household name against all odds. Trench Kid with Oxlade reiterates his humble beginnings, but the singer also expresses appreciation for his newfound success on Modupe, Wetin Go Be, and Good Day. Love is also a central concept of the album, as seen on Ngozi, You vs You, Adey, and Super Woman. Trench to Triumph is a celebration of life and progress, and we can’t help but be caught in the wave of one of the best Nigerian abums of 2023.
Standout Tracks – Ngozi (ft Ayra Starr), Ijo Laba Laba, Belleful (ft Victony & KTIZO), You vs You (ft Magixx)
18. Ruger – RU The World
Ruger has been topping charts since his discovery by D’Prince. The young singer fuses modern elements with dancehall to create a unique Afro twist of the Caribbean sound. With two wildly successful Eps and a slew of single hits, Ru The World is his debut album. As far as debuts go, Ruger champions his cause perfectly, tapping into various genres such as Dancehall, Pop, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and House music. Truly, the world is truly Ruger’s playground.
Standout Tracks – Tour, All My Days (ft Sauti Sol), Asiwaju, Boytoy.
17. Olamide – Unruly
Rap legend Olamide has been at the top for over a decade, with an evolution that is more than inspirational to several artists. With Unruly being his 10th solo album, the YBNL boss has nothing to prove, but he displays his mastery of the game with undoubtedly one of the best Nigerian albums of 2023. With an uncanny versatility to rap, sing, or trap on any kind of beat, good songwriting and storytelling features with newer and younger acts, and a presence no one can replace, Olamide is a fan favorite for a reason. Unruly shows Olamide has nothing to prove at the top.
Standout Tracks – Jinja, Gaza, Trumpet (ft Ckay), New Religion (ft Asake)
16. SPINALL – Top Boy
When arguably the biggest DJ on the continent decides to make an album, you should know what to expect. On Top Boy, SPINALL recruits heavy hitters from around the globe to deliver a smooth and hard-hitting body of work. One of the best Nigerian albums of 2023, the sonic range and performance of the featured acts hit a bullseye and leave the listener wanting more. Definitely worth several spins.
Standout Tracks – Palazzo (ft Asake), Outside (ft Blxckie, Ladipoe), Bunda (ft Kemuel & Olamide), Sere (Remix) [ft Fireboy DML & 6LACK]
15. Joeboy – Body & Soul
Empawa signed artist and industry darling Joeboy is no stranger to chart-topping hits. On his sophomore album, the young star has shown no signs of the pressure usually associated with making a sequel to a very good debut album. Everything about this album screams creativity: pristine storytelling, an unorthodox album rollout, pinpoint features, and great production. Joeboy has nothing to prove, and the sky is the limit for the pop star.
Standout Tracks – Normally (with Bnxn & ODUMODUBLVCK), Check My Phone, Duffel Bag.
14. Seyi Vibez – Thy Kingdom Come
Yes, it’s this guy again. This insanely talented artist released not one, but two of the best Nigerian albums of 2023. On Thy Kingdom Come, Seyi orchestrates mind-blowing production and uptempo melodies that will have you on the dancefloor in no time. Still as experimental as ever, he has mastered the art of delivering exactly how he wants. We’re delighted passengers on his ride and enjoying every bit of the journey.
Standout Tracks – Man of The Year, Hushpuppi, Karma, Highlife Interlude (ft Phyno), All the Time.
13. Flavour – African Royalty
We cannot discuss the best Nigerian albums of 2023 without touching on this project. African Royalty is an aptly titled album for someone like Flavour, one of the most prominent voices in highlife music for over a decade. A serial hit maker with seven albums under his belt, Flavour has yet again blown our minds with his eighth project. Flavor shows us exactly what he should be considered musical royalty by blending traditional Eastern rhythms and elements of folk and jazz, highlife, and Afropop.
Standout Tracks – Big Baller, Game Changer (Dike), African Dream, Levels Pro Max.
12. Kizz Daniel – Maverick
On Kizz Daniel’s fourth album, the singer aims to assert his unique style and global superstar status. A serial hitmaker, the album doesn’t see Kizz slowing down in any way; the 20-track project is peppered with hits that touch on a vast range of topics. On Maverick, the international pop star has combined great songwriting, awesome production, and a great lineup of featured artists to remind us he isn’t leaving our hearts or the charts anytime soon.
Standout Tracks – My G, Flex, Cough (Odo), Buga (Lo Lo Lo) [with Tekno].
11. Ric Hassani – Afro Love
Since his break out in 2016, Ric Hassani has stood even with the less popular genres he’s famous for. The singer is known for his soulful renditions, serenading listeners with his powerful R&B tunes, but he’s also known to experiment with different genres, and Afro Love is no different. The album sees Ric expressing his emotions on beats that blend Soul, Afro-pop, Jazz, R&B, Afrobeats, and many more modern sounds. An excellent album; the singer stays true to himself while taking the listener on a romantic whirlwind we can’t help but love. This album has no bad songs and is aptly titled; we highly recommend it.
Standout Tracks – Ayiba, Catch Cruise, Kaku-late, Call on Me (ft Bella Shmurda)
10. Teni – Tears of the Sun
For her sophomore album, a follow-up to 2021’s Wondaland, Nigerian pop star Teni paints a picture of unconditional self-acceptance. On the album, she comes to terms with failed relationships, healthy romance, partying hard, legacy, and family. She named the album Tears of the Sun to point out the fact that even the most beautiful things can go through testing phases, and the album expresses that with uncanny accuracy. A masterpiece in songwriting, beat selection, arrangement, and having a good time; the tears from this sun are beautiful.
Standout Tracks – Capricorn & Taurus, Jalingo, Lanke, Banga
9. Adekunle Gold – Tequila Ever After
Adekunle Gold is a household name known for his mature style of music. On his fifth album, the pop star creates a project that fuses many genres – Jazz, Neo-soul, Traditional R&B, Electric music, House music, Pop, and Afrobeats. Teo Tequila is a deep dive into the things that hold weight for the singer; fame, fun, family, romance, and peace are all key concepts for the singer. By recruiting some of the best musicians and producers in the world – Pharrell, Nile Rodgers, Khalid, and Labrinth, to mention a few – Adekunle Gold creates a masterpiece of expression.
Standout Tracks – Chasing Peace of Mind (ft Habib Koite & Ami Faku), Party No Dey Stop (with Zinoleeksy), Tio Baby, Oganranya.
8. Brymo – Macabre
Brymo is nothing short of a genius. The exemplary singer and songwriter has had a stellar career spanning over a decade and still churns out cinematic music. Taking influences from a diverse range of inspirations, the album experiments with sounds in African Folk, R&B, Jazz, Rock, Pop, and traditional African elements. Not to be outdone by even himself, Brymo mesmerizes the listener and soaks them in a world of soothing melodies that can barely be topped. Genius.
Standout Tracks – The Day Entropy Died – Sweet Baby Jewel, Truth is The New Cool – This Man, The Universe is Ours – Jupiter, Life is a Miracle – Smoke It.
7. Sute Iwar – Ultralight
A genre-fluid maestro, Sute Iwar is synonymous with absolutely amazing music. A multi-talented singer, rapper, and producer, Ultralight is everything you expect a genius to come up with. Executing a fine blend of Afro-fusion which combines elements of hip-hop, jazz, soul, and Afro-pop, Ultralight lit up our year with one of the best Nigerian albums of 2023.
Standout Tracks – Signs, Judah Lion (with Wurld), Shugar Peach, Meditate (with Tay Iwar & Lex Amor)
6. Blaqbonez – Emeka Must Shine
Blaqbonez has been arguably the hottest Hip-hop act in Nigeria for the past few years. Whether he’s serenading us by singing or keeping the listener on his/her toes with straight-up bars, Blaqbonez is known to always come with the goods. With one of the most solid catalogs of any young hip-hop act, he manages to outdo himself with every new release. Emeka Must Shine isn’t any different. Great plots, bars, songwriting, production, and dope guest artists make for an amazing experience. Emeka is shining and is only going to get brighter.
Standout Tracks – Like Ice Spice, Nyem Ego (ft Jeriq), Bad Till Eternity (ft Zlatan), No $leep (ft Young Jonn)
5. Bnxn – Sincerely, Benson
The 2022 recipient of the coveted next-rated Headies award has become a household name since breaking out in 2020. Fusing Rnb and Pop with Afro elements, Bnxn has mastered the art of artistry. Sincerely, Benson is exactly what the title implies, with the singer baring his emotions with groovy beats that’ll have the listener hooked in seconds. Bnxn reminds everyone that the future of African music is in good hands.
Standout Tracks – Best of Me, Gwagwalada (with Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez), Pidgin & English, Pray.
4. ODUMODUBLVCK – EZIOKWU
Arguably the biggest breakout star of 2023, Odumodu’s defiant brand and unique hip-hop style has taken the music industry by storm. On his album Eziokwu, the rapper recruits members of his crew, ‘Anti-world gangsters’ and other top-notch artists, to take the listener on a journey that delves into the world of the Abuja native. Exploring themes of love, rebellion, fun, resilience, and brotherhood, Eziokwu makes a clear statement. Odumodu is blazing a trail in the music industry, but he’s only going to do it his way.
Standout Tracks – DECLAN RICE, KULOBOR (ft. Amaarae), TESLA BOY (ft. Blaqbonez), BLOOD ON THE DANCEFLOOR (ft. Bloody Civilian & Wale)
3. Burna Boy – I Told Them…
The gift that keeps on giving, Grammy award-winning Burna Boy is the epitome of musical artistry. The singer has been charting since his breakout single Like To Party in 2011. Never resting on his laurels, the Afro-fusion pioneer is no stranger to outdoing himself. On his sixth studio album, he turns things up a notch. Featuring heavy hip-hop influences while maintaining his Afro influences, Burna Boy delivers a pristine performance on I Told Them… proving his worth as probably the biggest singer on the African continent right now.
Standout Tracks – On Form, Big 7, City Boys, Giza (ft Seyi Vibez)
2. Asake – Work of art
Asake has taken the whole world by storm. The current next-rated artist out of Nigeria, the 29-year-old singer is a phenomenon. Less than a year after his debut, Asake documents his artistry over Amapiano, Pop, and Afrobeats elements on his sophomore album. He delivers an album-of-the-year contender with strong songwriting and delicious melodies, and even scored a Grammy nomination for one of the project’s singles.
Standout Tracks – 2:30, Basquiat, Amapiano (with Olamide) & Lonely At the Top.
1. Davido – Timeless
It’s been three years since Davido last released an album, and 2023’s Timeless shows us exactly what we’ve missed. After over a decade at the pinnacle of African music, Davido has nothing to prove, but this album implies the opposite. An instant classic, Davido belts out hit after hit while exploring themes of passion, pain, love, and pressure over exemplary production. Recruiting some of the best talents, the featured acts fit like a glove. Reminding us why he’s called ‘001’, Timeless is exactly what the name implies. This project, along with two of its singles, bagged OBO his first trio of Grammy nominations, providing further validation that this belongs at the top of the list of the best Nigerian albums of 2023.
Standout Tracks – FEEL, UNAVAILABLE (feat Musa Keys), KANTE (feat Fave), PICASSO (feat Logos Olori).
