
If we’re being honest, Afrobeats today is one of Nigeria’s biggest cultural exports. Nigerian music has become a global sound, from the streets of Lagos to the clubs in London and even TikTok trends in Colombia.
While some names have become household brands — think Tiwa Savage, Tems, Ayra Starr, Yemi Alade, Teni, and Simi — there's a growing tribe of underrated Nigerian female artists who are just as talented, creative, and world-ready.
So, let me show you 10 Nigerian female Afrobeats artists who may not be trending on every chart — yet — but are steadily building global fanbases, dropping quality music, and pushing the boundaries of sound, style, and storytelling in 2025.
1. Darkoo
Darkoo has been delivering back-to-back bangers for a few years now, but in 2025, she’s becoming impossible to ignore. Born in Nigeria and raised in the UK, she blends Afrobeats, drill, and UK rap in a way that reflects her dual heritage.
Her tracks, like Always with Black Sherif and Disturbing U with Ayra Starr, have charted across multiple countries, and she continues to evolve as an artist with every release.
While she may not be as mainstream in Nigeria as some of her peers, Darkoo’s international audience is expanding fast. Her unique voice, tomboy style, and ability to cross between genres make her a standout in today’s Afrobeats landscape.
2. Fave
Let’s talk about Fave, whose name continues to ring louder each year. She might be known for Baby Riddim, but in 2025, she’s evolved way beyond a viral single.
Her most recent project, Dutty Love, offers a deeper, more vulnerable look into her artistry. Songs like Scars and Let It Burn aren’t just catchy — they speak to heartbreak, growth, and the emotional rollercoaster young Nigerians can relate to.
Fave is a perfect example of an artist who doesn’t rely on hype. She builds her audience through substance. Her growing streaming numbers, combined with her songwriting strength and laid-back charisma, make her a standout voice in the new school of Afrobeats.
3. Princess Wonda
Princess Wonda is easily one of the most versatile female Afrobeats artists you’ll come across today. She mixes Afrobeat with reggaeton, Latin pop, and highlife — all in a way that still feels proudly Nigerian.
Although she hasn’t released new music yet in 2025, she recently teased a new single titled No Yawa on Instagram, and fans are buzzing. If it’s anything like her 2024 hits Shooby Doo and International Loving, it’ll be a full-on global vibe.
With close to 1 million monthly Spotify listeners last year, Princess Wonda is building a strong audience across the UK, Nigeria, and parts of Latin America. She sings in English, Pidgin, Yoruba, and Spanish — breaking cultural barriers while maintaining a sound that’s bold, feminine, and fierce.
She’s not just building a fanbase — she’s building a movement.
4. Bloody Civilian
If you like your music bold and unapologetic, Bloody Civilian is your girl. From her feature on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever to her experimental EP Anger Management, she’s constantly proving that Nigerian music can be raw, political, and genre-fluid.
Her songs mix Afrobeat with punk energy, electronic layers, and strong lyrics about identity and survival. She may not be mainstream yet, but she’s redefining what it means to be a Nigerian woman in music.
In 2025, she’s gaining more attention from global alté and indie music circles. She may not be the loudest voice in the room, but she’s one of the most fearless.
5. Qing Madi
Qing Madi is different in the best way possible. She calls her sound “Afro-supernatural,” and once you listen, you’ll understand why. Her music feels soft, spiritual, and deeply emotional, yet rooted in Afrobeat rhythms.
Her debut project I Am the Blueprint has earned her a cult following, especially among Gen Z fans looking for something soulful but still Nigerian. Songs like Ole and Journey have been praised for their poetic lyrics and dreamy soundscape.
In 2025, Qing Madi is performing at local festivals and slowly expanding her reach to other African and diaspora audiences. She’s not rushing — and that’s the power in her artistry.
6. Morravey
Signed to Davido’s DMW 2.0, Morravey made a strong first impression with her vocals on In The Garden from Timeless. But in 2025, she’s stepping into her spotlight.
Her single, Ifeneme, went viral last year with over 500,000 videos on TikTok, introducing her to a younger, digital-savvy fanbase. Her sound blends Afropop with rich, emotive vocals — often compared to R&B artists but with a uniquely Nigerian flavour.
With a fast-growing online following and consistent support from fans across West Africa, Morravey is fast becoming one of the most exciting voices of the new wave.
7. Guchi
Guchi has been quietly building an impressive catalogue of music over the years. Known for hits like Jennifer and Benzema, her 2023 and 2024 releases showcased her consistency and vocal strength.
In 2025, she’s taken things up a notch, experimenting with deeper storytelling and melodic Afropop hooks that connect instantly with fans. Her social media engagement remains strong, and she’s frequently trending across Nigeria, East Africa, and parts of Asia.
While she may not get as much media coverage as some of her peers, her numbers and loyal fanbase speak for themselves.
8. Lade
You’ve heard Lade’s voice — even if you didn’t realise it. She went viral for singing the Airtel 444 jingle, and since then, she’s been dropping original songs with catchy hooks and relatable lyrics.
Her single Adulthood Anthem struck a nerve with young Nigerians and was practically a soundtrack for 2022/2023. In 2025, she’s focusing on new releases and live performances, with an increasing presence on streaming platforms.
Lade represents the everyday young Nigerian trying to figure out life, money, and love, and her music mirrors that beautifully.
9. Ugoccie
Ugoccie is a storyteller through and through. Known for her witty lyrics and social media freestyles, she’s one of those rare artists who’s both fun and thought-provoking.
She raps, she sings, and she isn’t afraid to speak her truth. In 2025, her music continues to explore themes of womanhood, society, and identity — especially from an Igbo and pan-Nigerian perspective.
Songs like Due Time and Obi Cubana show her versatility. Whether it’s spoken word, conscious rap, or Afropop, Ugoccie brings intelligence and fire to every track.
10. Raybekah
Raybekah brings that street-flavored Afropop that connects with everyday Nigerians. Think Zinoleesky meets Ayra Starr — catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a raw delivery that cuts through.
Her track Ex Boyfriend enjoyed success on TikTok and made her a fans' favourite.
Raybekah is an artist with an exciting sound who knows how to connect emotionally with fans.
Final Thoughts: The future is already here
These 10 women may not always be trending on Twitter or dominating Apple Music charts, but they are building careers rooted in consistency, originality, and global potential.
Princess Wonda, Fave, Morravey, Bloody Civilian — these aren’t just underrated artists. They are Nigeria’s next global ambassadors, and in many ways, they’re already making waves that the world will soon feel.
So the next time someone asks you which female Afrobeats artists are up next, don’t just mention the usual names. Point them to this list. Share their songs. Support their shows. Because if 2025 has taught us anything, it’s this: the future of Afrobeats is female — and it’s already here.