2025 was tough for rising artists. For those who expected an Asake-style breakout, it was a disappointing year.
For some music heads heavily invested in underground artists, however, it was a decent one. We saw the likes of FOLA, Mavo, and others spike in ways that could cement their footing in the industry. Over the past year, new sounds emerged weekly, new slang entered the mainstream, and scenes once considered underground began to shape the culture—from street-pop and Amapiano to alternative rap, R&B, and unclassifiable hybrids. 2025 wasn’t about trends; it was about artists building worlds and pulling audiences into them.
Now it’s a new year. Some of these underground artists who saw a spike in 2025 will be looking to build on those moments and push toward real dominance in 2026. Others, whose unique sound and/or style have massaged the ears of fans in local communities, will be hoping that the six in 2026 means their dice will finally roll. The uncertainty is there, the hope is there, and the resilience, readiness, strategy, consistency, and luck will be all it takes to move forward.
Here are some of the artists you should definitely have on your watchlist in 2026. If there were stocks for them, we’d definitely advise you to get some of each.
6uff
A producer-turned-artist who has mastered the art of the “street anthem,” 6uff spent much of 2025 refining a sound that blends raw energy with high-level production. His Menace to Society series has built a cult-like following, but it’s his recent viral momentum that suggests 2026 will be the year he moves from the underground to the mainstream.
Priesst
Since 2021, Priesst has been knocking on the door of mainstream success. Singles like Osimhen, Kurima, 11:11, and Shayo exposed his storytelling and captivating pop-rap style. He kicked off 2026 with a bang thanks to his viral hit single Akonuche, which has quickly become a fan favourite for its prophetic and aspirational lyrics. The streets are still quoting lines, and the momentum feels unstoppable.
Omizzy
Omizzy is the raw voice of the new generation. He has become a staple of the “Adura” and street-pop movement. With hits like Osimhen and Danfo Driver II already under his belt, his ability to capture the struggles and aspirations of his listeners makes him one of the most relatable and bankable stars heading into the new year. Every bar feels lived-in; every hook sticks like glue.
Mavo
The architect of “Bizzylingua,” Mavo, is arguably one of the most creative minds in the current scene. 2025 was a massive year for him, with the success of SANKO and Shakabulizzy. His ability to invent a new dialect of slang while delivering club-ready hits has earned him major co-signs. As he continues to expand his “Burbur” sound, Mavo is poised for total dominance—expect him to keep rewriting the rulebook on what Nigerian rap can sound like.
Toye
Toye represents the perfect bridge between different worlds. His “Faajipolitan” sound is a sophisticated blend of fusion and R&B. After years of building a solid independent catalogue and earning significant writing credits for industry heavyweights, Toye enters 2026 as a premier singer-songwriter ready for a global spotlight. The polish is there, the depth is real, and the crossover potential is massive.
Elestee
Formerly known as Lifesize Teddy, Elestee represents a successful and tactical rebrand. Shedding her former moniker in late 2024, she reintroduced herself with the Mentally, I’m Here EP. Her sound has evolved into a sharper, more confident blend of rap and fusion, highlighted by the success of Many Men and Space. The confidence upgrade is paying dividends—she’s moving like someone who knows the throne is within reach.
Kemuel
A “soul-painter” in every sense of the word, Kemuel’s music is as much about feeling as it is about rhythm. Following the success of Alone and his recent move into a new era with FINI, he has solidified his position as a specialist in R&B and soul fusion. His vocal texture and songwriting depth make him a standout in a crowded market. When the vibes need to slow down and hit the heart, he’s the one.
Zaylevelten
A key architect of the dark, edgy aesthetic taking over the alternative scene, Zaylevelten is more than just a rapper—he’s a mood-setter. Frequently collaborating with Mavo, his work on tracks like Wuse Tu has helped define a new subculture. He brings a fresh, alternative perspective that’s quickly catching on. The shadows he paints with sound are becoming impossible to ignore.
Fimi
Fimi is a theatrical powerhouse whose “chameleon” flow makes her one of the most unpredictable artists in the scene. Known for her high-energy visuals and the hit BEEF, she has a unique ability to switch styles effortlessly. Her transition from a niche artist to a mainstream contender has been one of the most exciting stories of the past year. Expect her to keep shape-shifting and surprising.
Lovn
Officially activated in late 2025, Lovn—also known as the Soundbender—brings a textured, Fuji-infused energy to the pop landscape. A former fashion designer and stylist, his debut single Sorry I’m Busy proved that his musical craftsmanship is just as tailored as his clothing. Lovn is set to be a mainstay on the charts this year—style, substance, and sonic flair in one package.
oSHAMO
oSHAMO is the leading light of the “Superfuji” movement. By blending traditional vocals with the high-octane energy of modern club sounds, he’s created a bridge that resonates internationally. His hit Life of the Party was a defining track of 2025, and he enters 2026 as a primary candidate for a major breakout. The fusion feels effortless, the energy undeniable.
Juno
An R&B siren, Juno has been making waves with her “slumber party” sessions and her recent collaboration, RUM. Her music is soft, sensual, and expertly produced, providing a necessary counterpoint to the high-tempo tracks dominating the airwaves. She’s the artist you listen to when the party is over—and the world is starting to take notice. Intimacy meets polish in her world.
No11
A frontrunner of the “Nepopiano” wave, No11 (stylized as noteveneleven) is stamping Abuja’s soft-life aesthetic all over the map. With his viral hit How Far blowing up in late 2025 and carrying serious momentum into the new year—including chart climbs and million-stream flexes—he’s turning Nepopiano, that luxurious, log-drum-laced blend of high-fashion vibes and emotive flows, into a full movement. The branding is sharp, the sound is addictive, and the takeover feels imminent. If soft-life anthems are the next big thing, No11 is holding the blueprint.
