Every year, while a large section of the Nigerian music industry focuses on stadium tours and global charts, a new class of fast-rising Nigerian artists builds their momentum in the background. They stack streams, earn co-signs, sell out rooms, and reshape the sound we love.
2026 already feels like their year.
From street-leaning Afrobeats and alternative soul to genre-bending rap and Afro-fusion experiments, these seven fast-rising Nigerian artists are no longer “up next.” They are already moving. 
If you like discovering artists before they dominate playlists and timelines, this list is for you.
Let’s get into it.
READ ALSO: Top 5 New Artists Who Dominated the Nigerian Music Scene in 2025
1. Zaylevelten — The Underground Disruptor
If Nigerian alt-rap had a quiet revolution, Zaylevelten will be the leader without any announcement to that effect.
His breakout track ‘Maye’ went viral across streaming platforms and social media, drawing listeners into his laid-back, unpolished delivery. But the real flex? He produces much of his own music under the alias Tenski, giving him full creative control.
His project ‘then 1t g0t crazier‘ and its deluxe edition showcase glitchy trap influences, experimental beats, and street-aware confidence. Zaylevelten isn’t chasing charts. He’s already building a cult following and that’s a perfect foundation for longevity.
2. oSHAMO — Lagos to London with No Filter
oSHAMO is what happens when Lagos energy thrives in London freedom. Born in Lagos and now UK-based, his sound fuses Afrobeats, Fuji, Amapiano, hip-hop, and storytelling that feels lived-in.
His debut EP, ‘First of My Kind’, traced his journey from Agege to London, while his newer project, ‘I D R I S’, went deeper, balancing dancefloor records with introspective cuts.
He’s not just exporting Nigerian sound; he’s translating it. Cultural bridges last longer than trends.
3. Sewà — Feelings, But Make Them World-Class
Sewà makes music for people who actually listen and feel. Her debut album ‘Detox’ was rooted in Afro-soul, with sprinkles of R&B, jazz, and pop. It is a fully realised body of work, not just a collection of songs. Every track leans into storytelling: love, loss, healing, and self-reflection.
She has sold out shows in Nigeria and Toronto and shared stages with Asa and The Cavemen. That is not a small flex in alternative music circles. Sewà is building longevity, the kind that fills theatres while filling playlists.
4. Og Abbah — The Arewa Hitmaker
If there’s one song you couldn’t escape this year, it’s ‘Kakashi, Kakashi’ Og Abbah released a hit that brought attention to the northern part of the country.
The track has dominated radio rotations across Nigeria and parts of Africa, becoming one of the most recognisable street-to-mainstream records of the year. Its infectious rhythm and chant-ready hook made it a favourite at clubs, weddings, and anywhere speakers exist.
With just one record, Og Abbah has shown what labels look for: reach, repeat value, and cultural stickiness. 2026 could be his full headline year.
5. Morravey — DMW’s Quiet Power Move
Since joining Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), Morravey has delivered where it matters most. Her debut releases pulled in strong streaming numbers and steady fan growth, positioning her as one of the label’s most promising new voices. Her sound shows confidence, the kind that sneaks up on everyone and stays.
Morravey is entering 2026 with both visibility and substance with DMW’s platform and her own growing identity.
6. Elestee — Rap, Range, and Relentless Growth
Elestee is what happens when talent and patience align. From opening for Ladipoe to releasing projects like ‘Lifesize Teddy’ and ‘POISN’, she’s consistently sharpened her sound. Tracks like ‘Space’ featuring Ajebo Hustlers have become some of her most-streamed songs, helping her cut through the noise.
Her recent EP ‘Mentally I’m Here’ shows clear artistic growth with tighter writing, stronger vocal control, and confidence across rap and Afropop lanes.
7. Musta4a — The Falsetto You’ll Be Hearing Everywhere
Musta4a’s voice is his calling card. It is soft, velvety, and instantly recognisable. Floating between Afropop, R&B, and soul, his songwriting balances romance, reflection, and youthful emotion. His collaborative EP ‘Musty & Yugo Vol. 1’ with Yugoszn proves his chemistry and forward-thinking instincts.
He is signed to Sony Music Publishing (West Africa), and has the infrastructure, the sound, and the momentum. All signs point to 2026 being the year he steps fully into the spotlight.
In Closing
What connects these artists is their traction. Hits, sold-out shows, publishing deals, cultural relevance, and growing fanbases aren’t accidents. The signs are there.
By this time next year, some of these names will be in our faces. Currently, they’re still discoveries, so now is the best time to pay attention.
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