Top 10 Breakout Nigerian Artist To Watch (2025)

If there’s one thing Nigeria never runs out of, it’s talent. Real talent. We’re talking about the kind that will give you goosebumps just from the first line of a song. Every year, new stars emerge from the trenches, the suburbs, and even TikTok, and they show up with enough fire to melt granite. And in 2025, the game has gotten even hotter.

The Nigerian music scene has evolved beyond just bangers and club hits. These days, people are making music with purpose, with vibes, with identity. It’s no longer just about who has the loudest song; it’s about who has the loudest voice and a story to tell. Thankfully, this year, Forbes Africa didn’t sleep on us—they dropped their list of young African creatives and included a few of our faves. So we’re not just hyping for hype's sake.

Now let’s talk about the top 10 breakout Nigerian artists to watch in 2025—some of them are already rising fast, some are just getting their flowers, and a few were handpicked by Forbes as the future sound of the continent.

1. Khaid – From Comedy Skits to Chart Topping Star

You see this Khaid guy? If you’ve not heard his song “Anabella” or “Jolie” by now, then you’ve probably been living under a rock—or inside an offline village. Signed to Sydney Talker’s Neville Records, Khaid came out of nowhere and suddenly started dominating our playlists.

At just 19, the guy already sings like someone who has lived three lifetimes. His sound is clean, emotionally deep, and made for both lovebirds and heartbreakers. Forbes Africa even recognized him as part of their 30 under 30 creatives. And honestly, it's well deserved. In 2025, Khaid is not just rising—he's flying.

2. ODUMODUBLVCK – The Street Rap General

ODUMODUBLVCK is not your regular rapper. The man spits bars with fire, rage, and raw authenticity. You know how most rappers these days want to sound soft and international? Not this guy. His flow is deeply Nigerian, his energy is chaotic (in a good way), and his lyrics? Pure street poetry.

From “Declan Rice” to his hard-hitting collaborations, ODUMODUBLVCK has carved a lane so unique that you can’t ignore him. Even people who don’t listen to rap are vibing to his madness. In 2025, he’s already performed at global festivals and he’s even got major global eyes on him. Forbes mentioned his name in their “watchlist,” and if he drops an album this year, e go choke.

3. Qing Madi – Gen Z’s Newest Sweetheart

Now let’s talk about Qing Madi. This girl is only 17, but her vocals are the kind that’ll make you pause whatever you’re doing and ask, “Who is singing like this?” From her breakout track “See Finish” to “Ole” with BNXN, she has shown that she’s not just lucky—she’s blessed.

Her sound is a smooth blend of Afro-R&B, soul, and youthful grace. And guess what? She’s not just popping in Nigeria; her music is making waves across Africa and even sneaking into European charts. Forbes Africa named her one of the new generation of African creatives changing the music landscape—and truly, Qing Madi is one to watch closely in 2025.

4. Seyi Vibez – Street Gospel, But Make It Global

Forget what anybody told you, Seyi Vibez is a movement. From Ikorodu to the UK, this guy has built a fanbase that is loyal like family. He doesn’t just sing; he pours his whole life story into his music. When you listen to Seyi, it’s like listening to the hopes and struggles of every average Nigerian hustler.

2025 has seen him elevate beyond just street bangers. His new sound is spiritual, deep, and laced with melody. He’s dropped back-to-back EPs, dropped quotes that people use for WhatsApp status, and Forbes listed him as an emerging force from Nigeria. Whether you love Fuji, Afrobeats, or gospel, Seyi has something for you.

5. Winny – Soft Vibes, Big Talent

Winny is that calm before the storm. Her voice is like silk—soft, smooth, and soul-healing. She’s been pushing her Afro-soul sound quietly but steadily, and in 2025, she’s finally catching the attention she deserves. Her EP is the kind you listen to with headphones and a glass of wine.

She’s already been featured on Apple Music’s “Africa Rising” and Spotify’s RADAR Africa playlist, and now, Forbes is calling her the future of African soul. Don’t sleep on her—Winny is going to be that girl very soon.

6. Shallipopi – From Slang Lord to Music Boss

Shallipopi is a vibe, let’s be honest. At first, people thought he was just another internet sensation with funny slang and catchy one-liners. But in 2025, this guy has shown that he actually has artistry behind the cruise.

“Obapluto,” “Elon Musk,” and “Ex-Convict” weren’t just hits—they became cultural moments. Shallipopi has built a unique brand around being authentically himself. Now, he owns a label, signs other artists, and continues to top the charts. Forbes didn’t list him just for music, but for the business brain behind his art. Pluto President no come play.

7. Pawzz – Mr Clean Pop

If you like music that’s polished, pop-heavy, and international-ready, then Pawzz is your guy. He hails from Port Harcourt, and he’s been pushing smooth Afropop that sounds like something from LA or the UK—except it’s dripping with Naija sauce.

His track “Koma” caught fire, but it’s his new 2025 projects that have everyone buzzing. He’s got endorsements, radio play, and an aesthetic that Gen Z absolutely loves. With features from top Nigerian producers and growing international interest, Pawzz is about to blow up for real.

8. Bloody Civilian – The Rule Breaker

If you don’t know Bloody Civilian, you better start learning. This babe is in a league of her own. Producer. Songwriter. Singer. And not just anyhow—she’s produced music for Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. You see that “Wake Up” song with Rema? Na she produce am.

Her own music is fearless. She doesn’t follow trends. She creates them. Forbes recognized her as one of the most promising African voices changing the future of music, and in 2025, her genre-bending EP “Anger Management” is already being called a classic. She’s not just an artist—she’s a revolution.

9. Alpha P – The Silent Striker

You might not see Alpha P all over blogs or gossip sites, but the guy is putting in work. Signed under Universal Music, Alpha P has been building slowly, dropping soulful pop jams and refining his sound with each release.

In 2025, he’s finally getting noticed. His latest single “Vibe With Me” is climbing playlists, and there’s talk of a major international collab in the works. Forbes called him “quietly consistent,” and if he keeps the same energy, we just might see him on international award lists soon.

10. Fave – Afro-Fusion Queen in the Making

Last but definitely not least is Fave. If you ever sang “Baby Riddim” at the top of your lungs, you already know how powerful her voice is. But Fave isn’t stopping there. Her latest music in 2025 is bolder, deeper, and more experimental.

She’s blending Afro-fusion, R&B, and her signature emotional lyrics to deliver songs that hit home. Forbes didn’t hesitate to call her “one of the defining female voices of Nigerian music,” and if her upcoming project delivers what we’re expecting, Fave is set to be a global name.

Final Thoughts

Nigeria is overflowing with talent, and in 2025, the bar has been raised. These breakout stars are not just one-hit wonders—they’re creating lasting impact, pushing boundaries, and repping the culture on a global level. Whether it’s Qing Madi’s baby-faced vocals or ODUMODUBLVCK’s madman rap flows, this generation of artists is different.

And don’t forget, Forbes Africa spotlighting names like Khaid, Qing Madi, Seyi Vibez, and Bloody Civilian means the world is already watching. If you're a music lover, now is the best time to plug into these new voices and enjoy the ride before they go fully international and start charging stadium prices for concert tickets.