Nigerian Music in 2024: Top Albums
The Nigerian music scene in 2024 was bursting with creativity and fresh sounds that captivated audiences worldwide. From Rema’s Afro-Rave to Ayra Starr’s genre-blending hits, artists pushed boundaries and showcased the dynamic evolution of Nigerian music. This article highlights the top 10 albums of the year, ranked by chart performance, streams, and critical acclaim.
1. HEIS – Rema
Rema’s HEIS redefined Afro-Rave, taking a step away from the popular Amapiano wave. This daring project reached the top spot on the Turntable Top 100 chart and sparked plenty of conversation. Tracks like Hehehe, Ozeba, Azaman, and Benin Boys all became fan favorites, each earning over 20 million Spotify streams.
2. Adedamola – Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML’s fourth album, Adedamola, released on August 29, 2024, took fans on a journey back to his roots. Collaborating with artists like Seun Kuti, Lagbaja, and DJ Spinall, Fireboy delivered heartfelt tracks like Everyday and Iseoluwa, both surpassing 20 million Spotify streams. The album peaked at number two on the Turntable Top 100 and was praised for its emotional depth and nostalgic charm.
3. Lungu Boy – Asake
Asake continued his winning streak with Lungu Boy, blending Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Fuji in his signature style. Released on August 9, 2024, the album featured hits like Active with Travis Scott and MMS with Wizkid, amassing over 30 million and 40 million Spotify streams, respectively. It reached number one on the Turntable Top 100 and became the second most-streamed Nigerian album of the year.
4. The Year I Turned 21 – Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr’s second album explored themes of heartbreak, growth, and empowerment. Collaborations with artists like Seyi Vibez and Giveon brought a global feel to tracks like Commas, Woman Commando, and Santa. The album peaked at number one on Turntable charts and even made Rolling Stone’s top 100 albums of the year.
5. Jiggy Forever – Young Jonn
Producer-turned-singer Young Jonn dropped his debut album, Jiggy Forever, on April 12, 2024. While some critics found the album repetitive, fans loved tracks like Aquafina (52 million Spotify streams). The album reached number two on the Turntable Top 100 and was Nigeria’s most-streamed album on Spotify in 2024.
6. Stubborn – Victony
Victony’s debut album, Stubborn, showcased his range across 14 tracks. Songs like Everything and Stubborn(featuring Asake) stood out, helping the album peak at number two on the Turntable charts.
7. Loseyi Professor – Seyi Vibez
Seyi Vibez released Loseyi Professor on July 12, 2024. While the 7-track album, led by Doha (14 million Spotify streams), received mixed reviews, it still hit number two on the Turntable charts. Critics suggested Seyi may need a break to recharge creatively.
8. RnB – Ruger & BNXN
Rival artists Ruger and BNXN teamed up to release RnB, a joint album that surprised fans. Although critics rated it for lacking depth, tracks like Bahamas and Sybaritic Love were popular among listeners. The album peaked at number two on the Turntable charts.
9. Shakespopi – Shallipopi
Shallipopi’s Shakespopi, released on April 11, 2024, climbed to number one on the Turntable charts. However, critics found the 9-track album underwhelming, calling it “lazy” and overly reliant on Amapiano sounds.
These albums capture the energy, creativity, and diversity of Nigerian music in 2024. Each one tells its own story, showcasing why Nigerian artists continue to dominate the global music scene. Which album was your favorite?