The United Kingdom's musical landscape has been significantly enhanced by its cultural diversity, with Nigerian roots being particularly prominent among numerous acclaimed musicians' backgrounds.
Ranging from hip-hop and grime to soul and Afrobeats, these ten UK-based artists of Nigerian heritage have left an indelible impression both nationally and internationally.
Below is a comprehensive list of artists originating from Nigeria:
1. Skepta
Joseph Junior Adenuga, referred to as Skepta Skepta is a pioneer in the grime music genre. Raised in Tottenham by Nigerian immigrant parents, he gained prominence with hits such as "Shutdown" and "That’s Not Me."
He has received multiple nominations at the Brit Awards and was also bestowed with the honorary title of Amuludun of Odo-Aje in Ogun State, Nigeria, acknowledging his significant cultural influence.
He has also recently collaborated with Nigerian artist Portable on a track called Tony Montana.
2. Tion Wayne
Dennis Junior Odunwo, who goes by the stage name Tion Wayne, hails from North London and works as both a rapper and a DJ. He started receiving recognition around 2010 through his YouTube freestyle videos before releasing his debut mixtape titled "Wayne’s World" in 2014.
He gained recognition from hits such as "Body" featuring Russ Millions, which reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.
In 2023, he traveled to Nigeria for the 'The Timeless Experience' concert by Davido.
3. Dave
Dave, whose full name is David Orobosa Omoregie, is among the most highly praised British rappers with roots in Nigeria.
Dave's inaugural studio release, "Psychodrama" from 2019, claimed victory at the esteemed Mercury Prize ceremony and reached number one on the UK Albums Chart, securing the record for the most-streamed UK hip-hop project during its launch week. Renowned for his introspective songwriting, he frequently delves into topics such as racial discrimination and societal inequities.
He has appeared on tracks with multiple Nigerian artists such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, and BNXN.
4. Darkoo
Raised as Oluwafisayo Isa, Darkoo is an emerging musician from South London known for merging Afrobeats, dancehall, and UK rap in her music. Her breakthrough track "Gangsta," which included One Acen, gained massive popularity and reached number one on the UK Afrobeats Chart. She has also worked alongside musicians such as Mayorkun, KiDi, and Black Sherif, highlighting her broad international reach.
5. Tinie Tempah
Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu, widely recognized as Tinie Tempah, emerged onto the music scene with his 2010 debut album "Disc-Overy," which soared to the top spot and achieved platinum status.
An award-winning artist from Britain and the creator of Disturbing London, Tinie has made an impact across music and fashion industries. He stands out as one of the most commercially successful British rappers hailing from Nigeria.
6. Sade Adu
Helen Folasade Adu, internationally recognized as Sade, was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, and grew up in England starting at the age of four. Her distinctive vocal style brought life to tracks such as "Smooth Operator" and "No Ordinary Love." Boasting four Grammy Awards, she continues to be one of the most renowned and impactful Nigerian-origin musicians in British music lore.
7. Seal
Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel, widely recognized as Seal, is a renowned British singer-songwriter celebrated for his unique vocal style and emotive ballads. Of Nigerian-Brazilian descent and born in London, Seal achieved worldwide acclaim particularly due to the hit song "Kiss from a Rose." Throughout his career, he has been honored with four Grammy Awards and three Brit Awards, amassing a dedicated following across the globe.
8. NOT3S
Lukman Olanrewaju Odunaike, who goes by the stage name NOT3S, is a musician blending elements of Nigeria with the UK grime scene. In 2017, his song "Addison Lee" gained widespread popularity online. Besides this hit, he is recognized for tracks such as "Aladdin" and "Palm Wine," along with releasing two mixtapes titled "Take Not3" and "Take Not3 II."
9. Little Simz
Simbiatu Abisola Abiola Ajikawo, also known as Little Simz, is a British rapper and actress recognized for her lyrical prowess and self-reliant attitude towards music. She has received numerous honors for her albums "Grey Area" (2019) and "Sometimes I Might Be Introvert" (2021), such as recognition at the Ivor Novello and NME Awards. Her Nigerian background significantly influences her artistic output.
10. Ms Banks
Thyra Oji, widely recognized as Ms Banks, is a rapper, singer, and composer with a Nigerian father and a Ugandan mother. She began composing music when she was just 11 years old. Over her career, she has unveiled numerous significant works such as "Once Upon a Grind" (2014) and "The Coldest Winter Ever" series comprising parts I (2018) and II (2019). In addition, her inaugural extended play titled "New Chapter," made its appearance in 2016.
11. Lemar
Lemar Obika, often referred to just as Lemar, is a British vocalist whose birthplace is Tottenham, with roots tracing back to Nigeria through his parents. His breakthrough came via his first studio release titled "Dedicated," an album that achieved dual platinum status. Over time, he has been honored numerous times due to his exceptional musical contributions. Amongst his tracks, "If There’s Any Justice" stands out particularly among fans as a beloved choice.
In his closet, he boasts three MOBO Awards (for Best UK Male and Best Album) along with two Brits Awards for Best Urban Act.
12. Maleek Berry
Maleek Shoyebi, who goes by the professional name Maleek Berry, is a British-Nigerian singer, record producer, and recording artist. Born in 1987 in South London, UK, Maleek embarked on his career with these identities.
He has produced several hit songs and worked alongside notable Nigerian and international artists such as Wizkid, Ycee, American rapper Wale, Wande Coal, Iyanya, Davido, Runtown, among others.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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