Female artists have always been at the forefront of the Afrobeats to the world movement.
The Afrobeats scene is exploding with talent, and female artists are leading the charge with innovative sounds and undeniable charisma. To honour International Women's Month, we highlight the top 10 rising stars who we believe are on their way to becoming the next Afrobeats royalty:
Qing Madi
Qing Madi is an Afrobeat Prodigy with a very powerful voice. This 17-year-old artist, born Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma in 2006, is taking the Afrobeats world by storm with her unique blend of pop and afrobeat, a merger of her undeniable talent.
Qing Madi's musical journey started young. She honed her skills by singing in her church choir and participating in school talent shows. But it was in 2022 that her career took a meteoric rise. A self-made TikTok video showcasing her original song See Finish went viral, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide.
Qing Madi is a true artist with a distinct style. She blends Afrobeats with Pop, Soul, and R&B influences. She is inspired by Kendrick Lamar and is working on redefining the genre with her own brand of Afro-R&B.
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Qing Madi has released several more tracks, including the hit Ole featuring BNXN, which has over 15 million streams on Spotify. This track and many others like American Love and Vision were in her eponymous (self-titled) debut EP in November 2023.
Conclusively, Qing Madi's stage name reflects her personality. "Qing" translates to "powerful, feminine, queen" and that's exactly how she carries herself. She recently featured in a single by Joshua Baraka and Simi titled Dalilah II.
Guchi
Guchi is a rising star in the Nigerian Afrobeats scene. Born in Kaduna in 1997, Ugochi Lydia Onuoha began her musical journey at a young age, singing in her church choir and for her family.
Her music style is majorly fueled by her father's love for Michael Jackson. She pursued her passion while attending Edo State University and later transitioned to part-time studies in theatre and media arts at the University of Lagos.
Guchi's sound blends elements of dancehall, afrobeats and highlife. Her career officially kicked off in 2012, but it wasn't until 2019 that she gained wider recognition with the release of her debut single, No Be Jazz. Signing with PG Records Entertainment, Guchi followed up with tracks like Addicted, Jennifer and Closer with Jennifer still in the top 100 of Kenya's Youtube list.
The release of Jennifer in 2021 was a game-changer. The song sparked a viral challenge on TikTok, propelling Guchi into the Afrobeats spotlight. She later released a remix featuring Tanzanian singer Rayvanny, further solidifying her international appeal. In 2020, she became a two-year ambassador for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, using her platform to advocate for positive change.
Ria Sean
Ria Sean, whose real name is Gloria Asene Enebi, is a rising star in the Nigerian Afrobeats scene. This talented singer and songwriter began her musical journey at a young age, honing her voice in the church choir. By sixteen, she was already pursuing music professionally, drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Brandy, Chris Brown, Whitney Houston, and Frank Ocean.
She gained limelight with her hit single Lemonade and has collaborated with Indian maestro, Kanika Kapoor.
Ugoccie
Favour Ugochi Anosike, better known by her stage name Ugoccie, is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. This multi-talented artist is making a name for herself with her blend of contemporary Afrobeats, rap, and indigenous flavours.
Born on March 6, 1997, Ugoccie's passion for music started young. Hailing from Abia State, Nigeria, she honed her vocal skills and love for performing. Interestingly, her artistic journey began as an on-air personality during her teenage years.
Her big break came with the release of her hit single "Do You Really Like Me?" The song's catchy melody, Igbo influences and relatable lyrics took off on TikTok, propelling her to viral fame and a nomination for Rookie of the Year at the prestigious Headies in 2022.
Ugoccie's music is a unique blend of contemporary Afrobeats with the rich sounds of her Igbo heritage. She infuses rap verses into her songs, showcasing her versatility as an artist. This cultural fusion adds depth and a distinct character to her sound.
She recently announced release dates for a 5 track extended play that is expected to take the Igbo music space by storm.
Bloody Civilian
Emoseh Khamofu, better known by her stage name Bloody Civilian, is a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian music scene. This multi-talented artist isn't just a singer and songwriter, she's also a skilled record producer, making her a true one-woman powerhouse.
Hailing from Taraba State, Bloody Civilian was raised in the vibrant Northern Nigerian cities of Kaduna, Jos, and Abuja. These diverse environments undoubtedly influenced her sound. While her upbringing might have been conservative, her artistic spirit couldn't be contained. From a young age, she filled notebooks with lyrics, wowed audiences at school talent shows, and even began crafting beats for fellow students.
Bloody Civilian's musical journey started with humble beginnings, using the free audio editing software Audacity to create her early compositions. However, her talent was undeniable. She soon gained recognition for her genre-bending sound that blends the rich tapestry of Afrobeats with other influences.
Bloody Civilian aren't afraid to push boundaries. Her debut single, "How To Kill A Man," made a bold statement and established her as an artist with a unique voice and a rebellious spirit. But her impact goes beyond solo hits. Her collaboration with Rema on the song "Wake Up" for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack catapulted her onto the global stage. This achievement solidified her status as a rising star with the potential to become a major player in the Afrobeats world.
Described by publications like The Guardian Nigeria as a "radical maverick," Bloody Civilian is more than just a musician. She's a creative force who uses her art to challenge norms and celebrate her Nigerian heritage. She is also a Grammy-nominated music producer. It’s best to keep an eye on Bloody Civilian, she's poised to be a major force in Afrobeats for years to come.
Somadina
Somadina is a rising star in the Afrobeats galaxy, captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and magnetic psychedelic rock pop mix. This talented songstress is quickly becoming a name to remember.
She grew up in the Netherlands and that influenced her unique style, Somadina's music speaks volumes. Her voice is a force to be reckoned with, capable of soaring sonic melodies that leave a lasting impression. Paired with her undeniable stage presence, Somadina's live performances are an unforgettable experience, drawing fans in and leaving them wanting more.
Somadina's music doesn't shy away from showcasing the full spectrum of her talent. Her recent single Lagos was a rave among the growing alternative group of youths. She lives the life she sings about and this authenticity resonates with listeners, making Somadina an artist to connect with on a deeper level.
Kold AF
Forget the icy moniker, Kold AF ignites the stage with fiery energy and a fresh perspective on African music. Her recent collaborative EP, No Pity, isn't just a breakout moment – it's a continuation of her steady rise.
This Nigerian songstress, hailed as an "African songbird" by The Guardian, possesses a captivating voice that demands attention. Kold AF isn't afraid to push boundaries, weaving soulful vocals with the infectious energy of Afrobeats.
Her debut EP, Kold Szn, showcases her depth as a songwriter and storyteller. It's a captivating journey through the complexities of love and heartbreak, resonating with listeners on a deeper level.
Kold AF transcends mere beats. Her music is a fusion of sonic brilliance and raw emotion, a powerful combination that shines through in her captivating performances.
Dami Oniru
Dami Oniru, also known as Briana Oluwdamilola Oniru-Edwards, is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. This Atlanta-born, Nigerian-American artist is captivating audiences with her rich, honeyed vocals and introspective songwriting.
She burst onto the scene in 2017 with her debut single Iyawo, showcasing her unique voice and talent for soulful expression. She quickly gained recognition and collaborated with artists like Odunsi The Engine, solidifying her place in the alternative Afrobeats movement.
In 2019, Oniru released her debut EP, Bri's Lounge, a 7-track project that established her as a vulnerable and relatable artist. Tracks like See and the hit single Alive explored themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Following a year hiatus to hone her craft, Dami Oniru returned in late 2022 with her sophomore EP, Matter Of Time. This project showcased her artistic evolution while retaining the soulful vocals and introspective lyricism that fans have come to love. Her latest single, Soft Life, is a smooth and relatable anthem about the desire for peace, ease, and well-deserved enjoyment.
She is not only a talented vocalist but also a songwriter who pours her heart and experiences into her music. With her dedication to her craft and a growing fanbase, Dami Oniru is poised to become a major force in the Afrobeats scene for years to come.
Lifesize Teddy
Lifesize Teddy, born Treasure Apiafi Banigo, is a rapper, singer, and songwriter making waves in the Nigerian music scene. Signed to the powerhouse label Mavin Records, she's quickly gaining recognition for her unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and rap.
Hailing from Bonny Island, Rivers State, Lifesize Teddy was surrounded by a rich cultural tapestry that undoubtedly influenced her music. Her musical journey began early, with songwriting blossoming at the young age of nine. By 12, inspired by Kanye West's College Dropout, she discovered her passion for rap.
A chance encounter on Instagram with Mavin Records artist Ladipoe led Lifesize Teddy to open for him at a concert in 2018. This connection ultimately landed her a spot in the label's prestigious artist development program in 2020. After three years of honing her craft, she emerged ready to take the industry by storm.
In 2023, Lifesize Teddy unveiled her self-titled debut EP, receiving critical acclaim. The project showcases her impressive range, lyrical prowess, and ability to seamlessly blend genres. Tracks like Hypnotic and John Wick hint at the exciting potential this young artist holds.
Lifesize Teddy is more than just a catchy name. It reflects her larger-than-life personality and the impact she aims to make. Often referred to as a "Femme Lighthouse," she inspires a new generation of female rappers in Nigeria, paving the way for a more inclusive Afrobeats scene.
Winny
Hailing from Benue State, Nigeria, Winny, named Winifred Ohili Adanu, is a rising star in the Afrobeats scene. This multi-talented artist isn't afraid to push boundaries, blending the infectious energy of Afrobeats with soulful vocals and hints of reggae, creating a sound that's both captivating and emotionally resonant.
Winny's music is more than just beats. She infuses her songwriting with themes of love, self-discovery, and finding your place in the world, drawing inspiration from artists like Chronixx, Wizkid, Chris Brown, and Kranium. Having grown up in a large, loving family, Winny's lyrics often touch on themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
While still at the beginning of her musical journey, Winny's ambition is clear. She aspires to use her music to connect with listeners on a deeper level, evoke emotions, and establish a unique artistic identity that transcends genres. This was evident in her Winny album, released in 2023, which currently has millions of streams across platforms.
The Afrobeats scene is brimming with phenomenal female talent, and these 10 rising stars are poised to become the next wave of royalty. From the soulful stylings of Winny to the powerhouse vocals of Somadina, each artist brings a unique flavour to the genre, pushing boundaries and captivating audiences worldwide.
This diverse group of artists isn't just creating catchy tunes; they're redefining Afrobeats. Whether it's Bloody Civilian's genre-bending boldness or Ugoccie's fusion of Afrobeats with her Igbo heritage, these women are expanding the sonic palette of the genre while staying true to its infectious energy. These Afrobeats queens are ready to conquer the world, one song at a time.
