Rising Nigerian entertainers to watch out for in 2020

If you pay attention to Nigerian pop music, you would know Fireboy DML. He is a youngster with huge potential. His hit song, ‘Jealous’, already has 4.8 million views on YouTube. The YBNL signee headlined major gigs in 2019 and released his album, ‘Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps’ which was well received. He ended the year on a high note with the rave reviews garnered from his groovy song ‘Scatter’, which has become one of the ‘hottest’ songs that light up the dance floor.

Naira Marley

No one saw him coming. From having a diehard fan base called ‘Marlians’ to a strong social media followership and a slew of hit songs including ‘Soapy’, and ‘Opotoyi’, Naira Marley makes us wonder how he blends his creativity and street smarts.

As of the time of this report, the video of his trending song, ‘Tesumole’, already has 628,000 views on YouTube. ‘Soapy’ has 6.8million views, while ‘Opotoyi’ has 6.3million views on the video-sharing platform. He is sure going to continue serving his fans magic in 2020.

Rema

Call him the teenager with the silky voice and you wouldn’t be wrong. Rema was practically shot into limelight shortly after his entry into the industry. Signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, Rema does seem to have the right team behind him. His song, ‘Iron Man’ appeared on former US President Barack Obama summer playlist and the Edo-born entertainer won the coveted Next Rated awards at the Headies last year.

You really need to get used to him this year because you will be hearing and watching a lot of him.

Joeboy

At the beginning of 2019, Joeboy was just another underdog– a talented artiste armed with the desire to see his talent grow like a slow burning fire. However, his story changed with the critical acclaim that heralded his song, ‘Baby’, which has over 20 million views on YouTube. He followed it up with the mid tempo ‘Jealous; with over 4 million views on YouTube and then with ‘Beginning’ with over 2 million views on the video sharing platform. If he continues on this trajectory, he will indeed surpass all the achievements in 2020.

Bimbo Ademoye

Bimbo’s versatility constantly attests to why she is one of the most sought after Nollywood damsels at the moment. From starring in cinema movies such as ‘Sugar Rush’ to small movie projects like ‘Looking for Baami’, the 2018 African Magic Viewers Choice Awards nominee’s talent doesn’t seem like it would go dim anytime soon.

Toni Tones

Though Toni Tones used to be more known for being fashionable, she has reinvented her brand into one Nollywood is gradually paying attention to. With beautiful performances in movies such as ‘King of Boys’ and Funke Akindele’s recent directorial debut, ‘Your Excellency’, Tones is poised to continue soaring.

Uzor Arukwe

Uzor’s story speaks of dedication, persistence and consistency. The role interpreter’s acting range has grown from ordinary to excellent. His recent feature in cinema movies like ‘Kpali’ and ‘Sugar Rush’ indicate that this is, perhaps, the moment he has been waiting for.

Nkechi Blessing Sunday

Nkechi is just out there ignoring her critics and living life on her own terms. The curvy actress, who rose to prominence on the wings of her movie, ‘Omoge Lekki’, has become a force to reckon with in the Yoruba sector of Nollywood. Her feature in Funke Akindele’s web series ‘Aiyetoro Town’, loyal fan base on Instagram and a number of endorsements are the needed proof that she is on a mission to stay relevant.

Abayomi Alvin

Abayomi got our attention when he starred in the MTV drama series, ‘Shuga’. Since then, the budding handsome actor has shone in ‘Moms at War’, ‘Diary of the Damned’, ‘Isoken’ and other flicks. Alvin has all the qualities needed to soar in Nollywood– he is young, versatile and talented.

Blaqbonez

Though Blaqbonez started out showing off his talent in rap competitions, the audacious rapper has grown beyond that. Blaqbonez may not have a mainstream appeal but he still reigns in his own corner.

Blaqbonez, who calls himself the number one rapper in Africa, released his EP, ‘Mr Bombastic’ to positive reviews. His recent Soundcity MVP awards nomination shows he is doing something right.

Lyta

Lyta started 2019 with a viral no-holds -barred interview detailing his struggles as a young artiste. He stunned many of his detractors when he released groovy songs such as ‘Monalisa’ with more than 700,000 views on YouTube. His mainstream appeal increased after collaborating with Davido on ‘Monalisa’ remix.