Online streaming platform Spotify named Ayo Maff and Tml Vibez as the top Nigerian artists to watch in 2025, citing their innovative fusion of amapiano elements into afrobeats.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify's head of music for sub-Saharan Africa, revealed this in a statement on Tuesday, highlighting how Nigeria's adoption of amapiano has influenced its music scene.
“As the second largest consumer of amapiano with over 50 billion streams, Nigerian artists are giving local fans what they want by incorporating elements of amapiano into genres like afrobeats,” Okumu said.
He noted that Ayo Maff's hit song Are You There is an excellent example of this trend. “The self-proclaimed 'Prince of the Street' is an artist to watch in 2025,” he added.
Tml Vibez secured second place among Nigeria’s breakout artists, with Okumu praising their “piano beats and hymn-like melodies.”
In third place is BoyPee, whose blend of Afro Soul, Afro Pop and traditional sounds earned him recognition. “Songs like Ogechi featuring Davido illustrate the musical blends that make BoyPee an artist to watch out for this year,” said Okumu.
Additionally, he singled out Afrobeats star KAESTYLE, who took fourth place for her “feel-good anthems dedicated to joy, unity and resilience,” and Llona, who secured fifth place with her passionate Afropop songs like Cold War with FAVE. “Their music reflects the challenges and aspirations of their growing fan base,” Okumu noted.
Beyond Nigeria, Okumu emphasized the broader influence of African music in 2024. He singled out Ghana's Team Eternity for their gospel-infused tracks, including Defe Defe, which gained traction through viral dance challenges. Rapper Kweku Smoke also rose to prominence with albums like Kweku Jesus and Born in Hell, exploring themes of authenticity and identity.
In Kenya, artists like Arbantone and Sean MMG are expected to continue to rise, while Sean's viral hits like Pop Like This have cemented his breakout status.
“These promising artists show the bright future that lies ahead for African music,” Okumu said. “From blends of Afrobeats and Amapiano to linguistic fusions that connect with fans on emotional and spiritual levels, the continent's sonic identity is more vibrant than ever.”
He concluded by encouraging fans to keep an eye on these artists. “These artists should be on your radar as we wait for the big hits of 2025,” he said.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE