Part 1: Nigerian Music kingship

For years, we have been introduced to so many Nigerian music artistes, who have with their vocals, beautiful lyrics, heart wrenching performances, beautiful video and yes, just about everything that defines a good artiste, made a mark in the music industry.

For the first part, here are some of the Nigerian music royalties we have today. Enjoy!

1- With the calmness and coolness of early December air, Timi Dakolo, slowly but confidently entered and stayed locked in our hearts with his powerful and emotional vocal renditions, Nigerians could not be more grateful for the fresh breath of air back in 2007.

From his ‘There is a Cry’ song to, Iyawo, Wish me well and most recently, ‘The Vow’, Timi Dakolo, has continuously showed us he has the staying power. With a vocal range that towers above many in the music industry, Timi Dakolo, is indeed a music royalty, in other words, he is music personified.

His ability to pass the heaviest and simplest of messages with gut wrenching vocal stability/ability and just the perfect music video to compliment it, is incomparable. Timi Dakolo is music, Music is Timi Dakolo.

2- Dare Art Alade: When I first heard his Escalade, I thought finally. Dare, churned out Rhythm and Blues records repeatedly at a time most Nigerian artistes were struggling to lay a claim to this sound and those who did were criticized severely. Escalade, became a tune in almost all homes including that of those who were used to the ‘Galala’ kind of sounds and the rest.

Then came ‘not the girl, the way you are’ amongst others. Till date, Dare Art Alade is still showing us just how smooth and suave he is with his music. Powerful artiste, I must say.

3- Waje: You see her, you think power, emotion, hardworker, incredible singer…yes guys, you see all that. I    mean….She has successfully played an abused wife, a jilted girlfriend, a powerful lady with same amazing and      powerful ability.

Right from her feature on Psquare’s ‘Do Me’ song to ‘One Nair’ with talented rap artiste, M.I. Waje has continually moved forward getting better and better with each record she drops., and then came  ‘Left me for Good’ featuring Patoranking, three words, Strong woman, strong singer, wonderful artiste!

Tell us some other powerful artistes you think should make our list.

Written by: Tope Delano