Top Richest Musicians From Cross River State

Let’s be real for a moment. When people talk about Nigerian music, they immediately mention Lagos boys like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy—and of course, the hustle capital of Afrobeats. But guess what? Some of Nigeria’s most talented and successful musicians are not from Lagos. In fact, if you look closely enough, you’ll realize that Cross River State has been quietly giving us stars—true talents with vibes, soul, and a bank account that says “music pays.”

Now, I’m not here to bore you with dry figures or turn this into some academic report. Nope. This is a celebration—a loud, proud toast to the finest musical exports from Cross River State. No half-claims. No honorary indigenes. We’re talking about real sons and daughters of the soil, people whose success stories are rooted in their heritage.

So grab a cold drink or your favorite snack, because this post is going to make you proud, make you smile, and maybe even make you rethink what you thought you knew about Cross River’s place in the music industry.

1. Iyanya – The Kukere Crooner Who Danced His Way into Our Hearts (and His Millions)

Let’s start with the one and only Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya. If you ever danced to Kukere and did that famous waist move, then you’ve already been blessed by his magic.

Born in Calabar, Iyanya came into the spotlight after winning the first season of MTN Project Fame West Africa. From that point, he didn’t just enter the music scene—he took over. His breakout hit Kukere didn’t just trend; it caused a national dance fever.

But Iyanya isn’t just a one-hit wonder. This guy is a strategic businessman. After his success, he co-founded Made Men Music Group (Triple MG), a label that has produced stars like Tekno and Selebobo. So when we say “rich,” we’re not only talking about music streams—we’re talking label profits, endorsement deals, international tours, and even ambassadorial gigs.

Quick Highlights:

• Multiple awards under his belt.

• Sold-out shows across Africa and beyond.

• Endorsement deals with major brands.

• Tourism Ambassador for Cross River State at one point.

• Net worth estimated in the multi-million naira range (and climbing!).

Iyanya is proof that talent plus strategy equals generational wealth. And he did it while proudly repping Cross River every step of the way.

2. Nonso Bassey – The Voice Nigeria Finalist Who’s Equally At Home on Stage and Screen

Ah, Nonso Bassey—or as fans now call him, NONZO. If you love a smooth voice that can make your heart do backflips, this guy is your man.

Nonso is from Calabar, and he first caught national attention as a finalist on The Voice Nigeria. But unlike others who fade after talent shows, Nonso took the exposure and turned it into a career. Signed to Universal Music Group Nigeria, he has released several singles that blend R&B, soul, and Afro-fusion in a way that makes your playlist feel premium.

But that’s not all. This guy is a true entertainer. He made a successful crossover into acting, playing a lead role in the TV drama “Battleground” on Africa Magic. So whether he’s singing a love song or giving us dramatic monologues, Nonso keeps fans entertained and his earnings consistent.

Quick Highlights:

• Dual-income stream: music and acting.

• TV exposure = more fans = more streams.

• One of the few Cross Riverians making serious waves in both music and Nollywood.

• Net worth? Let’s just say he's not missing any rent payments anytime soon.

Nonso may not be the loudest on social media, but his success is steady, impressive, and deserving of serious applause.

3. Beebee Bassey – The Soulful Songbird with a Voice as Smooth as Velvet

Now let’s talk about someone whose talent could literally stop traffic—Beebee Bassey. Born Blessing Bassey Okon, this Calabar native has a vocal range that makes seasoned musicians nod in admiration. If music were a weapon, Beebee’s voice would be classified as a national treasure.

Beebee started singing at the tender age of 13 and quickly grew from church stages to national recognition. You might remember her from Nigerian Idol or when she represented Nigeria at the Karaoke World Championship (yes, that’s a thing—and she won!).

She’s not just a singer. She’s a performer, songwriter, and guitarist, blending powerful vocals with instrumental depth. Whether she’s belting out a soulful ballad or jamming on her guitar, Beebee knows how to command a stage—and a paycheck.

Quick Highlights:

• International music representation.

• Albums and singles with consistent online streams.

• Regular performances at high-end events.

• Quietly building an empire through workshops and music education.

She may not be in the tabloids every day, but if you’re talking about real talent with real income, Beebee deserves a seat at the table.

4. KanBuja – The Genre-Bending Hitmaker with Global Dreams

Let’s switch things up and talk about a rising star with serious hustle—KanBuja, born Lakem Daniel Bankong. This Ikom-born artist has been cooking up sounds that blend Afropop, hip-hop, and a sprinkle of everything else.

What sets KanBuja apart is his international mindset. Raised partly in the UK, his music speaks both to Nigerians at home and the diaspora. He founded Strive Records, his own label, and is already building an impressive catalog of songs and collaborations.

KanBuja is also a certified fitness coach, which means his income isn’t tied to music alone. He understands brand building and diversified income. From music production to fitness branding, this guy is stacking his paper in every currency possible.

Quick Highlights:

• Independent artist with label ownership.

• Cross-continental fanbase.

• Income from music, merchandise, and fitness.

• Set to be one of the biggest exports from Cross River in the coming years.

He may not yet have the recognition of an Iyanya, but trust me—KanBuja is on his way. And when he gets there, you’ll remember we said it here first.

5. Attih Soul – The Global Musician Taking Cross River Vibes Abroad

Finally, let’s talk about someone who’s taking Cross River talent to Barcelona and beyond—Attih Soul, real name Attih Ekpenyong. This soulful singer, songwriter, and performer is a proud Calabar son who started small and now sings for crowds in Europe.

Attih studied biochemistry in Nigeria (yup, brains and talent!) but followed his heart into music. He eventually moved to Spain and became part of the thriving international music scene. His performances are not just concerts; they’re experiences—blending soul, world music, and African rhythms in a way that moves the soul.

And it’s not just music. Attih is also an academic, with two master’s degrees in talent management and leadership. This guy is not just performing—he’s building a legacy.

Quick Highlights:

• Lives and works in Europe, performing at major festivals.

• Revenue from shows, streaming, music education, and coaching.

• Strong online presence and growing fanbase.

• Representing Nigeria with pride on international platforms.

Attih may not be a household name in Nigeria yet, but abroad? He’s flying the Cross River flag high—and making good money doing it.

Summary Table – Richest Living Musicians from Cross River State

Final Thoughts: Cross River Musicians Are Not Just Talented—They’re Winning Big

There you have it. Five Cross River indigenes who have not only chased their musical dreams but turned them into sustainable, profitable careers. They’re not just “hustling” anymore; they’re thriving—and doing so while making the state proud.

Each of them has a unique story:

• Iyanya took reality TV fame and built an empire.

• Nonso turned a voice into a dual career.

• Beebee turned talent into purpose.

• KanBuja is blending culture with entrepreneurship.

• Attih is exporting soul to the world.

So next time you hear someone say “Na only Lagos get musicians,” tell them to come and sit down. Cross River is cooking something special—and these stars are just the beginning.