New artists are rapidly on the rise. Not that the emergence of new kids on the blockchain is something strange, but in recent years, we’ve had viral sensations that resulted in imminent downfalls like, rather than kids who showed promises of becoming formidable like Wizkid and Olamide, and Burna Boy.
It started with the “pon pon” trend which we thought was the future of African music, but really it was all bluff. Mr Eazi made a name for himself, became viral and a few other guys were able to rise from the shadows and make hits (aka Runtown), but it didn’t last. Same as the careers of the ‘new guys’ the trend gave us. It was ultimately short-lived.
Then came shaku shaku from nowhere. Slimcase, Mr Real, Idowest and quite a number of people benefited from that rave. By all means, they were our breakout stars, except they weren’t. These days, it’s Zanku, so you don’t really know who’s who, you can’t even say “this guy is going to become big.” And that’s because most of these new artists don’t have solid impressions.
Speaking of solid impressions, what new artists have had solid impressions in 2019? So far, of course. Because six months is still a mighty long time for anyone to make an impression. So, who are the new artists that should have our attention, judging by what we’ve seen them do, of recent?
Fireboy
The YBNL singer is our new darling boy when it comes to alternative music. Say, an indigenous Johnny Drille, or a new version of Adekunle Gold (as most people have insinuated)?
Whatever tag you wanna attach to the “Jealous” crooner, it’s important to know that Fireboy DML‘s impressions are nothing but impressive. You may think of him as an overnight success, but what he’s doing is really organic.
That is, mediocre isn’t an option, everything he has to do has to be bad-ass. And he’s worked consistently to make that happen. So far, I think he’s been able to convince us that he’s got vibes.
Notable Track: What If I Say
DNA
You probably get duos like PSquare once every two decades. But DNA has been promising, yeah. Not releasing as most underground afro-fusion artists would, but since they signed to Mavin Records, many months ago, they’ve done quite a number of stuff that has made them not just promising, but also ‘formidable.’
Earlier this year, they came out of the blues and dropped two new singles. If you ask me, it’s a testament to what’s coming our way soon. They’ve got the talent, the platform, the support and almost everything they need to become big sensations. DNA can’t but have our attention, when next they hit us.
Notable Track: Star
Rema
We like kid artists, teenage sensations, prodigies, like Justin Bieber or Lil Pump or Jaden Smith. That’s what we saw in the newest kid on the block, Rema. That’s why he’s trending.
Rema, who is signed to Jonzing World, a Mavin Records imprint, has not only proven himself to be a talented artist, he’s also showed us that he got what it takes to stay here, on a long term.
Two EP projects, a couple of bang singles, hot music videos and dozens of freestyles (and Instagram followers), you can tell when you see a promising one.
Notable Track: Iron Man
Oxlade
Oxlade has songs everyone will love. Although not everyone has heard of the budding artist, I see that changing very soon. As he’s got the real vibe!
He came to limelight with collaborations with such guys as M.I Abaga-endorsed rapper, Blaqbonez (“Mamiwota”) and YBNL top boy, Fireboy (“Sing”).
And ever since, he’s been nothing short of great. You simply can’t ignore him. His impressions get better each and every time, and with a growing fanbase, only the sky is the limit.
Notable: Legend
Terri
When you get a deal with Starboy, I guess everyone just expects you to become a superstar. That expectation even increases if you’re perceived as very talented.
Terri hasn’t achieved that huge status we all picture for him, but honestly, there’s nothing stopping him. Nothing. He’s done it on “Soco”, repeated it on “Bia” and “Shuu.”
He’s got an impression already, and it’s not bad. A collaboration with Wizkid will definitely just fire him up and down the magic!
Notable Track: Same You
T-Classic
Signed to MixNaija Entertainment, the singer isn’t an alternative or niché, he’s a real pop element. Cut out for mainstream, his music has in recent times become fan favorites.
T Classic, who came on the scene back in 2017, with “I Want You” and a couple of other jams, is a vibes machine. Most of his works are produced by Killertunes, including the 2018 hit “Fall In Love” which featured top DMW act, Mayorkun.
This year, he’s not resting. He’s already got two songs that are charting at the top, and bursting playlists. His latest, “Kana” features another DMW act, Peruzzi and Star boy, Terri.
Notable Track: Nobody Fine Pass You