By Wonu Osikoya (WO), Honour Aghedo (KH), Tomide Marv (TMarv), Adeayo Adebiyi (AA)
Nigeria's street-hop scene is a vibrant, unfiltered reflection of grassroots culture, where raw talent, hustle anthems, and infectious street slang collide to create some of the country's most influential music. Born out of different hoods, street pop has molded Afrobeats' evolution in many ways, giving rise to cult heroes and viral superstars.
From the early days of DaGrin's street-hop dominance to the rebellious energy of the Marlian movement, and the viral chaos of Portable's Zazoo Zeh, these artists have turned local slang into national catchphrases and street dances into global trends. Whether it's Zlatan's Zanku revolution, Mohbad's emotional street tales, or Small Doctor's motivational anthems, each act on this list represents the voice of many different parts of the streets — unapologetic, relatable, and undeniably impactful.
With that being said, we take a quick dive into Street pop culture over the last 2 decades as we crown 25 of the greatest Street-Hop acts Nigeria has witnessed including the pioneers, hitmakers and game changers who have turned passion into a profession and turned their struggles into success stories.
- OLAMIDE
Nigerian street pop cannot exist without the name Baddo. As a matter of fact, Baddo has paved the way for so many people on and off this list. Dominating the market is one thing, but dominating the mainstream market consistently since the early 2010s till now while reinventing and reshaping is the reason why Baddo is sitting pretty at the very top of this list. When Olamide Adedeji but popularly known as Olamide, Baddo or the Voice Of The Streets stepped into the scene in 2010 with the record “Eni Duro,” he broke in with authentic street representation, rapping and flowing while merging Pidgin and his native dialect Yoruba, together, connecting directly with the streets and its roots.
For time, he has always rapped about the struggles, hustle and street culture in Nigeria, particularly in Bariga, Lagos — a part of the city majorly populated by struggling Nigerians who just as Olamide hope to make it out of the hood someday. Bariga has minted stars such as Lil Kesh, Viktoh etc. with Olamide being a significant part of their respective journeys. Over the last 10+ years, he has released an album every other year, popularizing Yoruba Rap in mainstream Nigerian music, blending indigenous languages with street slangs, making it cool to rap in Yoruba while setting the tone and inspiring a new wave of artists like Zlatan, Mohbad, Seyi Vibez and so many others. His influence can simply not go unnoticed. Although his discography is packed with Street pop hits such as “Wo!” “Bobo,” “Eyan Mayweather” and more, he has successfully dabbled in Afrobeats, Hip-Hop and even Gospel-inspired records such as “Omo Ologo.”
Many say Olamide is one of the greatest A&Rs in Nigerian music today and can I doubt that? Absolutely not. Since setting up his record label YBNL in 2012 , he has gone forth to produce stars such as Fireboy DML, Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, Asake and so many more. Unlike some artists who lose touch after fame, Olamide stays connected to his roots, frequently referencing his Bariga upbringing and supporting underground artists; now, a Baddo feature can not only change the trajectory of your career as an artist but can also set you up for life with his mentorship and collaborations shaping the sound of modern Afrobeats and Street Pop.
Olamide flexes his musical prowess across many different forms especially through songwriting, not just for himself but for many others. With writing credits on records such as Tiwa Savage’s “49-99” and Fireboy’s “Everyday,” as well as many of Asake’s records, his pen speaks for him in rooms he isn’t even seated in.
A decade long career is not something you see everyday especially in this part of the world but Badddo has not only proven it’s possible; he has proven it’s possible to do that while still lifting others around. Morphing from artist, to Record Label owner to Music Business Executive, it’s safe to say Olamide is a living legend whose legacy has been shaped by his zeal, passion and commitment to Afrobeats, Street pop and Nigerian music and its culture.
– by WO
- Asake
“It’s time for you to go show the world what you’re really about,” Olamide chants at the end of the record “Trabaye” on Asake’s debut EP, ‘Ololade Asake’ clearly affirming to the audience that Mr Money will be here for a while. Little did we know that Asake would take the whole world by surprise.
Asake is a testament to the possibilities of everything Afrobeats is, can and will become. For the first time in the history of Nigerian music, we see an artist blending Afrobeats, ‘Piano, Fuji, Street Pop, Hip Hop, all together while performing music in Yoruba, delivering energetic styles that resonate perfectly with music consumers across different parts of the world. His use of catchy hooks, street lingo, log drums and Yoruba-infused lyrics is what makes his music instantly recognizable and memorable.
When Asake released “Mr Money” in 2020, he garnered the attention of a handful of fans and listeners. He followed this up with a remix featuring Zlatan & Peruzzi and although he captured the attention some, the record moved faster than the artist. In early 2022, Asake signed a recording contract with Olamide’s YBNL and the rest has been history. In the last three years, he has conquered stages across the world that only a few of the greats can boast of. He sold out the 02 Arena, London, in minutes — an unprecedented feat for a relatively new artist.. Over the past few years, he has gone ahead to play and sell out shows at arenas such as the Barclays Center, Madison Square Garden and even the 02 Arena on multiple occasions.
In the span of 3 years, Asake has released 1 EP and 3 studio LPs with his next album already on the way. His debut album ‘Mr Money With Vibe’ quickly broke records, becoming one of Afrobeats fastest selling albums of all time. To keep the momentum going, he followed up with this Sophomore album and my personal favorite body of work of his, ‘Work of Art,’ a 14-tracker that consistently showcases his range as a singer, songwriter and music genius across 40 minutes. Completing his Trifecta, in 2024, he released his 3rd studio album ‘Lungu Boy,’ with international collaboration from Central Cee, Travis Scott, Ludmilla, Stormzy and more, solidifying his place on the global front.
Since his breakout, Asake has maintained a high release frequency, dropping hit after hit without losing quality. His ability to capture the essence of Nigerian street culture while pushing Afrobeats to the global front makes him one of the greatest Street pop acts. His sound, work rate, and influence solidify his place in Afrobeats history forever.
– by WO
- Phyno
Many may say “Ghost Mode” was the foundation for Phyno and they won’t be wrong. Teaming up with Olamide, two street talents, both rapping in their indigenous languages and in turn putting his city on the map solidified his place in the room of Nigerian Street-Hop.
When Chibuzor Belson Azubuike popularly known as Phyno stepped into the music scene with what might not as at then been the loudest voice, it was impossible to ignore. Long before “street pop” became a defined genre in the Nigerian music space, Phyno already set the tone by fusing indigenous language from a part of Nigeria many felt didn’t have what it took to hit the mainstream audience, combining gritty beats and unfiltered storytelling through rap . He was crafting something different; street anthems laced in Igbo proverbs and infused with unique traditional instrumentals.
His influence helped lay the foundation for many other indigenous artists we see from Eastern Nigeria such as Zorro, Jeriq and more . From Owerri to Aba to Ojuelegba to Mushin, Phyno’s music travels not only to show the songs’ popularity, but the unapologetic Eastern Nigeria identity at its core. Phyno continues to bridge the gap between the streets and the studio, telling stories that truly resonate with the Igbo people; their story.
Tracks like “Fada Fada”, “Alobam”, “Connect” went on to not just be hits but statements to the importance of Phyno in the genre that is street pop, further being a defiant reminder that street music in Nigeria doesn’t belong to just one city, it’s a cultural movement across the many different tribes, and culture in this part of the world.
– by WO
- Timaya
Few names in Nigerian music carry the weight and resilience of Timaya. As one of the country’s most enduring acts, his longevity is a testament to his ability to evolve, not just as an artist but as a storyteller, leader, and cultural force. Emerging from the creeks of the Niger Delta, Timaya fought to be heard on his terms. He began his journey as a backup dancer and artist, navigating through genres like rap, reggae, and eventually afropop, proving that versatility was not just a trait but a survival tool in a rapidly shifting industry. His 2005 debut album, ‘True Story’, was not just a breakout moment; it was a loud cry from the heart of Nigeria’s marginalized communities. Recorded during a period of personal struggle, the album captured the anger and anguish of a generation shaped by injustice.
One of the standout track “Dem mama” was a history lesson, recounting the 1999 destruction of Odi, a riverside community in the Niger Delta, where security forces razed the town in retaliation for the killing of eight policemen. Scores were killed, homes destroyed, and the scars remain. With over eight projects to his name, Timaya has grown far beyond the rage of his early years. He’s now a father, a mentor, a label head, and a savvy businessman. His evolution from the fiery Egberi Papa of Bayelsa, AKA the people’s champion and voice of the voiceless, to the smooth, confident Papi Chulo reflects both brand evolution and artistic maturity. Where Egberi Papa was protest, Papi Chulo is pride, a chilled-out daddy who still carries the stories of his roots.
– by KH
- 9ice
Few artistes have left as indelible a mark on Nigeria’s music landscape as 9ice, the legendary singer whose raspy vocals, rich Yoruba lyricism, and authentic street sensibility helped shape the very DNA of modern Nigerian music. Rising to prominence with his era-defining hit “Gongo Aso” in 2008, 9ice didn’t just capture the sound of the streets– he was the sound of the streets. His music spoke directly to the lived realities, hopes, and struggles of everyday Nigerians, blending traditional proverbs, folk influences, and street slang into timeless melodies. In a time when Nigerian music was still finding its global footing, 9ice brought a raw, homegrown authenticity that resonated far beyond class or region, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success.
At the core of 9ice’s enduring legacy are his iconic albums, which not only defined his career but also helped shape the soundscape of Nigerian music in the late 2000s and beyond. His breakthrough project, “Gongo Aso” (2008), remains a cultural touchstone—an album that delivered back-to-back hits like the title track “Gongo Aso,” “Street Credibility,” “Party Rider” and “Photocopy.” The album wasn't just successful; it was seismic, earning him multiple awards including the coveted MTV Africa Music Award and MOBO Award, while becoming an anthem for everyday Nigerians. He followed this triumph with “Tradition” (2009), an album that reinforced his knack for weaving proverbs, traditional rhythms, and relatable storytelling into modern soundscapes. Subsequent projects like ‘Bashorun Gaa’ and ‘Versus’ further showcased his versatility and lyrical depth, solidifying his place not just as a hitmaker but as an artiste committed to preserving and evolving indigenous music within the framework of Afrobeats. These albums continue to inspire and influence a new generation of artistes who view 9ice’s discography as both blueprint and benchmark.
– by K-D
- Daddy Showkey
Once upon a time, Ajegunle stood as the cornerstone of Nigerian music, a breeding ground for unrefined talent, where voices rose from the streets and spoke truth to power. At the forefront of this movement was Daddy Showkey, a sonic storyteller whose music told tunes of pain, injustice, hope, dreams and the realities of ghetto existence. Blending Galala with reggae-infused grooves, Daddy Showkey crafted a sound that resonated deeply with those living on the margins, a soundtrack to their struggles and survival. But Daddy Showkey was more than just an artist. He was a voice in the wilderness, John the Baptist of Ajegunle, preaching truth to a generation trapped in cycles of poverty and neglect. You won’t be farfetched if you called him “The Ghetto Prophet,” his lyrics served as both a mirror and a warning, reflecting the harsh conditions of his community while calling for change.
Now, it’s 2025, and the issues that fueled the wave of conscious music from Ajegunle in the mid-’90s remain not only unresolved but even more glaring. Slum schools continue to suffer from chronic underfunding. Health infrastructure teeters on the edge of collapse. Crime rates soar. And parents who once dreamed of escape during their childhood now watch helplessly as their children face the same dead-end streets. The country’s still on fire and in dire need of plenty of water.
– by KH
- Zlatan
The word ZANKU has gone ahead to become a staple across Nigerian popular culture today for so many reasons and it’s all thanks to Zlatan. Consistently dishing out street anthems since breaking into the mainstream conversation till now is one of the reasons why Zlatan will always be relevant. From his unpredictable rap performances to his notable adlibs, Zlatan is a human adrenaline rush with energy that can simply never be recreated or replicated. Before viral challenges existed, he had the whole country dancing Legwork, creating a cultural earthquake to the point where he had even Beyoncé pick up the Zanku Legwork dance.
His music is the soundtrack of survival, blending Yoruba street slang with infectious beats that just constantly make you want to move and groove. harder than reality. Tracks such as “Lagos Anthem" and "This Year" have become survival guides, wrapping the chaos of Lagos life into addictive hooks that even traffic-hawkers rap word-for-word. Zlatan weaponizes joy, turning struggle into a reason to move your feet and that’s the reason why the streets look up to him.What makes him even more legendary is his Midas touch for street alchemy. He is constantly transforming raw, unfiltered hustle into platinum hits. His collaborations are effortlessly engaging. From igniting Burna Boy’s "Killin’ Dem" to sparring with Davido on "Osanle." Even when he’s flexing on “Yeye Boyfriend” or clowning on "Ale Yi," his lyrics carry the wit and wisdom of a wise street pop sensation.
While others fade, Zlatan evolves; morphing from dance king to rap phenom, yet always staying true to his roots. Zlatan isn’t just Nigeria’s street pop king, he’s its hype man, its underdog hero, and the living proof that talent mixed with sheer audacity can turn street dreams into global anthems. The streets made him, but he built his own empire through consistency, hard work while staying true to Zlatan.
– by WO
- Reminisce
Baba Hafusa or Reminisce stands as one of Nigeria's greatest street pop acts due to his lyrical prowess, authentic street narratives, and influence on the ever evolving evolution of indigenous hip-hop and street-hop music. Emerging from the streets of Ogun State, Reminisce carved out a niche for himself by blending Yoruba rap with street-centric themes, making his music both relatable, engaging and nothing short of culturally significant.
His breakout hit, "Kako Bi Chicken” which took the scene by storm showcased his ability to craft witty, hard-hitting verses while addressing everyday struggles, earning him a loyal grassroots following. Beyond just music, Reminisce became a voice and a representation of the streets, using his platform to highlight societal issues with a raw, unfiltered delivery. His collaborations with legends such as Baddo cement his role as a key figure in Nigeria's street pop movement.
When he’s not dishing out hard hitting street lingos, he’s showing off his talent through acting roles. His ability to settle into many different roles on screen comes from his authentic, charisma and larger than life personality — qualities that very much also define the music he puts into the world. It’s easy to tell that his success as an actor comes from his dedication to mastering his craft. His background in storytelling through music translates seamlessly into his acting, allowing him to command scenes with the same confidence he brings to his verses.
What sets Reminisce apart is his consistency and versatility, seamlessly transitioning from rap to street-pop anthems without losing his edge. Albums such as ‘Baba Hausa’ and ‘El Hadj’ are packed with street classics like "Ponmile" and "Asalamalekun," which resonate deeply with fans across Nigeria's urban and suburban areas. His signature deep voice, Yoruba-infused flows, and unapologetic lyricism make him a timeless figure in the genre. Even as newer acts dominate the scene, Reminisce's influence remains undeniable-his blueprint can be seen in the works of many contemporary street-hop artists. By staying true to his roots while evolving with the times, Reminisce has secured his legacy as one of Nigeria's greatest street pop icons.
– by WO
- Naira Marley
Nothing could have prepared Nigerians for the run of hits Naira Marley unleashed on the mainstream in 2019. Not even the rapper could have predicted the level of dominance and sheer influence his music would wield, yet he was absolutely prepared for it. Relying on his fluid rap skills, colorful use of Nigerian street lingo, Afrobeats technique, and the influence of the UK rap scene, Naira Marley delivered a sound that dominated speakers around the country.
His explicit writing, swashbuckling delivery, electrifying dance moves, party-starting production, and counter-cultural and aspirational lifestyle combined to create The Marlian Movement that swiftly won a fanatical following across the country. In 2019, Naira Marley’s Marlian Fest was so packed that fans scaled the gates to catch a glimpse of the star whose music had the country in a chokehold. In December of the same year he was reportedly paid 60 Million naira by a Bank for a show. He also closed the Lagos State End of the Year concert that had in attendance some of Afrobeats’ biggest stars.
His lyrics formed part of everyday lingo. His philosophy became a school of thought, and he had other stars mirroring his style. He forced secondary schools to enact regulations that compelled students to wear belts. He had young adults daring establishments in the defiant spirit his Marlian Movement fueled. He was at odds with the government and guardians' fear for his influence on their ward. Such was his impact in Nigerian street hop and pop culture.
– by AA
- Terry G
Describing Terry G is no simple task; the word that comes closest is enigma. A multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer, he reigned over Nigeria’s pop scene from 2007 to 2013, carving out a space that was uniquely his own. Labelled as weird and different by some, Terry G wore those descriptions like a crown, masking profound musical genius beneath an eccentric exterior. He understood music at its core, how to bend it, reshape it, speak directly to the body and make it move. Radio stations had no choice but to play him because audiences demanded it. His peers knew this, too, which is why Terry G became the go-to featured artist for a hit record. As Illbliss once recalled, a distributor at Alaba Market told him outright: “If you want this record to move, get Terry G on it.” With Terry G on the hook, Illbliss' career skyrocketed into the limelight.
Everything Terry G touched turned to gold. His iconic "Free Madness" was born out of a freestyle he recorded while crafting beats for the artists waiting to record on the beat at the studio. It was moments like these that proved how deeply he breathed music; every record he released became a fan favourite, writing his name into Nigerian pop culture. Visually, he was impossible to ignore, with dyed hair, facial piercings, and a literal bell to signal that it was time to rage. He brought an energy that set him apart from his contemporaries. In hindsight, Terry G was alté before alté entered the mainstream lexicon, a pioneer of individuality, creativity, and sonic rebellion.
– by KH
- Seyi Vibez
The evolution of Nigerian street pop would be incomplete without the voice of the trenches, Seyi Vibez. Where artists like Baddo laid the blueprint, he has picked up the baton with a fresh spiritual grit, taking street music to soul-stirring new heights. Bursting out of Ikorodu, Lagos, Seyi Vibez did not rise through the industry machine; he rose from sheer belief, raw hunger, and deeply emotional, personal storytelling.
Seyi Vibez first broke out in 2019 with the record “Anybody,” it was not just a song– it was a cry from the heart, echoing through the streets and reaching the ears of people who needed hope. Blending Yoruba, English, and Islamic chants with Fuji-tinged melodies and street prayer, he brought something rare: vulnerability in street music like no one had experienced before. His sound isn’t just about vibes; it’s a spiritual experience rooted in pain, survival, and destiny.
In an industry that often rewards polish over pain, Seyi Vibez has kept it raw. He has built a cult-like following not just from hit records, but from how deeply his music connects. Songs like “Chance (Na Ham),” “Kun Faya Kun,” and “Different Pattern” don’t just bang, they resonate and loudly, at that. With multiple projects in under two years and a signature sound that is now becoming a blueprint for others, Seyi has proven that authenticity, consistency, and faith can take you from Ikorodu to the world. Each record feels like a spiritual check-in: equal parts motivational speech and street scripture. In the age of digital attention deficit, his hits stick because they speak. They hit the trenches and the charts with the same force.
He has had defining moments and not just viral ones, but emotional milestones. His quickfire album runs in 2022–2023 (with projects like Billion Dollar Baby and Thy Kingdom Come) were not just prolific; they were cathartic. His melodies became mourning songs, his lyrics tattooed on the hearts of fans grieving, grinding, and growing. He turned pain into power– loudly, vulnerably, and unapologetically.Seyi Vibez did not just join the wave; he became the wave.
His sound, a gritty blend of Fuji, trap, Afrobeats, and spiritual chants, has become the blueprint for a new generation. His lingo (“Na Ham,” “Ogo Forever”) has pierced the culture, infiltrating captions, street slang, and TikTok algorithms. Artists now borrow his cadence, producers chase his sonic texture, and the streets scream his ad libs. Pop culture now orbits his frequency.
The emotional weight of his discography ensures it will age like fine wine. His work ethic, too, hints at long-term dominance and definitely not a flash, but a fire that refuses to go out. In under three years, he has delivered a discography that speaks louder than hype. From ‘NSNV (No Seyi No Vibez)’ to Memory Card, Thy Kingdom Come, and Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come, he has treated EPs & LPs like therapy sessions. Each project peels another layer of his purpose.
While Seyi Vibez may not be the industry’s typical media darling, he commands the cosign that matters most: the streets. But it does not stop there. Heavyweights like Wizkid, Olamide, Burna Boy, and even international eyes have acknowledged his rise. He’s not the industry’s child, he’s the street’s Messiah. From Ikorodu to the world, Seyi Vibez didn’t ask for a seat at the table, he built his own altar.
– by WO
- Patoranking
When Nigerian Dancehall music icon Timaya introduced Patoranking to the mainstream with their hit collaboration ‘Alubarika,’ the talent the youngster possesses was so undeniable that even the staunchest cynic would have taken out a wager on his future success. Patoranking’s music pays homage to a long list of stars whose talents were forged in the Konto music and Gyration sound crafted in the inner city area of Ajegunle, Lagos state.
He wouldn’t only contribute to the legacy of Konto music but also take it to a bigger level thanks to his emphatic talent that allowed him to skillfully deploy Afrobeats influences, which he combined with Dancehall elements. When he won the Headies Next Rated prize in 2014, it was a huge endorsement he would live up to, thanks to his music that delights, educates, elevates, and conveys sonic richness that was embraced by an international audience.
His music impacted the mainstream and won him hearts on the streets. His chart-topping collaborations earned him a place in Afrobeats’ global push. And as for awards, not many can boast of an MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMAs) Song of the Year and Headies Record of the Year prize.
– by AA
- Bella Shmurda
Bella Shmurda is a raw, unfiltered prophet of the streets, turning pain into poetry and struggle into anthems. Hailing from Ibadan with a voice that crackles like burning firewood and lyrics that cut straight to the soul, he emerged as the voice of a demographic of the streets drowning in Nigeria’s harsh realities. When the record “Vision 2020” arrived, it was more than a song; it was a cry of frustration, a prayer for survival, and a battle hymn for every hustler fighting to escape the trenches. Records such as like “Rush" also didn’t just dominate playlists—they became survival manuals for the streets, blending street pop grit with haunting melodies that stick like glue.
Bella Shmurda has a distinct ability to weave tragedy into triumph, transforming personal loss into universal anthems. When he sings about betrayal, police brutality, or the hunger for success, it’s not performative, it’s very much autobiographical. His ‘High Tension’ EP was a masterclass in street storytelling and even as his sound evolved, collaborating with stars like Olamide, Wizkid, and long term friend Omah Lay, he never lost his street essence. Bella’s music is a mirror, reflecting the blood, sweat, and dreams of Nigeria’s forgotten corners.
Bella is a street poet, a rebel, and a beacon of hope all at once. In cases where others chase trends, Bella builds his own lane, fusing Fuji-infused rhythms with street-hop grit, stringing together a sound that’s unmistakably his. His live performances are near-spiritual experiences, with crowds screaming every word like gospel, proving his connection with fans goes beyond the DSPs. His cult-like fan base consistently shows that Bella is indeed a Hometown hero, showing the possibilities of making it, no matter who you are or where you come from. In a world where street pop often glorifies the hustle without honoring its casualties, Bella keeps it real, reminding us that survival isn’t just about money, it's more so about humanity. Bella isn’t just one of Nigeria’s greatest street pop acts, he’s an unshakeable and an immovable voice in Afrobeats today.
– by WO
- Lord of Ajasa
With his quick-witted Yorùbá idioms, humorous one-liners and catchphrases, long before street-pop became established, Lord of Ajasa laid the blueprint in the early 2000s as one of Nigeria's first rappers to boldly embrace his mother tongue. At a time when English-heavy rap dominated, Ajasa’s hit “Ma Yi Lo,” didn't just sound different; it sounded like home.
– by TMarv
- Lil Kesh
Lil Kesh is undoubtedly one of the greatest musicians Nigeria has ever been blessed to witness, and this is all thanks to his radiating energy, pioneering influence, and a string of anthems that defined a whole generation. Bursting onto the scene in the mid-2010s under YBNL Nation, Lil Kesh quickly became a street sensation with his breakout hit "Shoki," a record that did not only dominated airwaves but also birthed a viral dance that took the entire culture by surprise. His music perfectly captured the raw, unfiltered essence of the Lagos streets, blending Yoruba slangs with catchy hooks and melodious beats. Tracks like "Efejoku” and "Gbese" further went on to cement his reputation as an icon, resonating with fans who saw their struggles, hustles, and triumphs reflected in his lyrics. Lil Kesh's ability to craft club bangers while staying true to his grassroots roots set him apart, making him a central figure in Nigeria's street pop movement.
Beyond his musical talent, Lil Kesh played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and culture of modern Nigerian street hop. His debut album ‘YAGI,’ changed everything for him, ganerning the audience who may not have initially been paying attention. His collaborations with industry heavyweights, including Davido, Patoranking, and Phyno, showcased his versatility and broad appeal. Even after leaving YBNL to establish his own label, YAGI, he continued to dish out hits, proving his lasting power in an ever-evolving industry. Lil Kesh's influence extends beyond music-his fashion, slang, and unapologetic street persona inspired a wave of young artists who saw him as a blueprint for success.
What truly makes Lil Kesh one of the greatest is his resilience and adaptability. While many may fade after a few hits, he has consistently reinvented himself, exploring new sounds while staying rooted in the streets that made him. His more recent records such as "Don't Call Me" and “Vanilla Bottega," demonstrate his growth as an artist, blending street sensibilities with mainstream appeal. Whether as a hitmaker, or a cultural trendsetter, his legacy lives on not just in his own discography but in the countless artists he inspired, solidifying his place as one of the greats.
– by WO
- Oritsefemi
Already a community star thanks to his “Elewon (Flog Politicians)” and “Unfadable” hood classics, Oritse Femi released his “The Musical Taliban” album (featuring hit track “Double Wahala”) in 2012 to spread his legend outside Ajegunle, to the mainstream, nationwide. Always armed with hasty production that stays in the moment, distinctive, ringing voice and wise-guy lyricism, Oritse Femi commits to financial emancipation and social commentary in equal parts.
The success and peak after “Money Stop Nonsense” put a doubt on his recent releases, even when he tried to rebrand as a “Corporate Miscreant”—but it’s undeniable that Oritse Femi has already managed to impact street-pop music.
– by TMarv
- DaGrin
Before his demise in 2011, Dagrin embodied Nigerian rap at its most compelling. He was a dedicated rhymer who detailed the aspirations of the proletariat and deployed a loud and fire-crackling voice that nevertheless evoked hard-knock life. He put on for the ghetto, although armed with the superiority complex of a militant.
He released two projects but “CEO” is his most successful and acclaimed due to “Pon Pon Pon”, a bazooka-sized anthem produced by Sossick. Just as swag and hits are important, premonitory single cuts like “If I Die” where he raps, “If I die, make you no cry for me / E je n sinmi, e jo, e je n mi (Let me rest, let me breathe)” bring him face-to-face with his mortality. For all his streetwise and bravado, he was able to see beyond his immediate environment. He was a talent that made his untimely death a tragic one.
– by TMarv
- Baba Fryo
When R&B imitators and foreign-flavoured pop had the reins of the mainstream, Baba Fryo rose from the streets of Ajegunle to deliver a breakout hit “Dem Go Dey Pose.” With its infectious beat and social commentary, he unabashedly declared class awareness and street pride. Baba Fryo’s music embraced the Galala, a sound that blended dancehall, reggae, and local pidgin English and set the tone for what would evolve into today’s street-pop.
With an eye-patch reminiscent of Slick Rick, Baba Fryo stood at the intersection of street culture and music, becoming a symbol for the average Nigerian youth adding through the deep waters of hustle, hardship and survival. He helped give Ajegunle its reputation as the birthplace of authentic Nigerian ghetto music, a sound that remains embedded in Afropop DNA. In today’s wave of street-pop artists from Zinoleesky to Bahdman Niko, and the dancehall-afropop hybrid Ruger, Baba Fryo’s impact is evident.
Alongside his contemporaries in the Ajegunle music scene, Baba Fryo helped craft a sound and identity that felt deeply communal. Their music was their identity, from the hairstyles to the dance moves and fashion. Their influence stretched far beyond the boundary, reverberating across the entire country.
– by TMarv & KH
- African China
African China is one of Ajegunle’s finest stars, whose work advanced street music by simply capturing the pulse of the street. His evergreen single ‘Mr President’ has given him a constant voice in Nigeria’s struggle for sociopolitical justice. A message he continues to promote over two decades later. His music gave many listeners an entry point into street music and his mainstream success was one of the major firsts for street artists. When he shot he video for his single ‘London Fever’ in England, it was not only a rare sight in Nigerian music but also a rarer one in the Ajegunle axis where he grew up.
Although he’s known for being a street prophet like other Ajegunle-born stars whose music documented the harsh reality of life in the inner city and the need for socioeconomic justice, African China’s music had a wider range. His message of justice, love, and community is housed in his discography that includes the popular albums ‘Crisis’ and ‘Mr President’.
– by AA
- Danfo Drivers
The year was 2005, and the Konto music duo Danfo Drivers had both school children, market women, bankers, and civil servants referring to themselves as Danfo Drivers.Although their stories weren’t relatable to every listener, their originality, melodies, and dance moves connected with both the young and old who sang along to the tracks on their album ‘Danfo Drivers’.
What distinguished the late Mad Melon and his partner Mountain Black was how they boldly embraced their socio-economic realities as drivers of Lagos' famous yellow commercial bus (danfo). The duo shared tales of the hustle and bustle that shape a fast city and what they do to survive the rat race. They took the street right into the living rooms of middle-class listeners who all became Danfo drivers. They brought everyone under the intoxicating smoke that filled the small hotel room they shot the video of their track ‘Sensimilia’. And they united listeners of all creeds and ages with ‘Iya Mi’, an ode to a mother’s priceless love.
While Danfo Drivers' stint in the mainstream was short, they gave street pop and Konto music mileage in the mainstream through a classic album that remains instantly recognisable decades later.
– by AA
- Mohbad
To talk about later Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba or Mohbad as we all know him is to speak about a young king whose reign shook culture before he could be crowned. He wasn’t just another random street-hop artist with no uniqueness, he was the voice you heard in the cracks. Though his journey was tragically cut short, what he left behind refuses to be silenced. Mohbad, in his prime, knew how to make the street jump and the roof fall. His breakout on “KPK” with Rexxie became an unforgettable takeover. The record hit so hard it echoed across continents. He had the kind of voice that sat right in the middle of a beat and could unfortunately not be ignored.
From his public label drama to his deeply emotional freestyles, his life often felt like a documentary unfolding in real time. His death sparked a cultural reckoning, not just mourning, but a movement. People just as myself were beyond sad; they were angry, awakened. That tells you everything about his relevance to culture. Mohbad’s sound was raw Lagos energy– spiritual, street, vulnerable. He bled pain and power into every bar. Phrases like ‘Imole’; his popular nickname, became synonymous with light, hope, rebellion. He was both the soundtrack and the language of a generation navigating depression, betrayal, and survival. You did not just hear Mohbad, you surely felt him.
He unfortunately did not get the years, but he made the impact; impact strong enough to make him make this list. The power of Mohbad is that his voice echoes even louder in death. His songs became tributes and his name a cultural staple. For someone who had barely scratched the surface of what he could do, Mohbad’s catalog still consists of hit such as ‘Ask About Me’, ‘Backside’, ‘Peace’, and even freestyles like ‘Beast and Peace,” records which paint pictures of an artist who was versatile, intentional, and unfiltered, making music with nothing but pain, praise, pressure and poetry. He came up under Marlian Music, but his light refused to be boxed. Despite the challenges, he had the respect of artists and fans alike. Olamide acknowledged him. The streets claimed him. Social media crowned him. After his passing, it became clear: Mohbad wasn’t waiting for industry validation, he already had the people. And when the people ride for you, that’s the ultimate cosign. His music lives, his message echoes and his light lives on, shining the brightest.
– by WO
- Mr Raw AKA Nigga Raw
By the mid-2000s, Nigerian hip-hop was transforming, particularly in how it embraced local dialects. Artists like Lord of Ajasa, Jazzman Olofin, 2 Shotz, and Big Lo were among the early pioneers who used humour-laced rhymes and party-themed beats to make hip-hop accessible to a broader audience. Their music leaned into comedy as a vehicle for light social commentary, helping to establish a niche but growing fanbase for homegrown rap.
Enter Mr. Raw (formerly Nxgga Raw), an artist who took that foundation and built something deeper. His 2005 album Right & Wrong marked a turning point, especially with the track "Obodo". While the song featured the popular comedic persona Klint Da Drunk, it diverged sharply from the usual humorous fare. Instead, Mr. Raw delivered a narrative of life in Nigeria. He opens the track recounting a harrowing experience with police brutality, then weaves through themes of national insecurity, economic instability, and corruption, all told with a matter-of-factness with storytelling.
His sophomore album, ‘Everything Remains Raw’, expanded on this identity. Merging hip-hop, R&B, and humour, Mr. Raw showed a versatile sound while maintaining the personal and socially conscious stories in a language that resonated with everyday Nigerians pidgin) and empowering the Igbo rap community.
- Small Doctor
Small Doctor is a street ambassador that treated music as an art to be expressed and performed with gratitude for new purpose and fresher starts. The Agege-born artist spotlights the street’s joyful bright sides, proving himself as a vessel pushing to manifest a new look for Fuji-pop fusion. He’s the street savant that relays his exposure and diffuses older music entwined with Two-T hard-knocking, hyperfast beats that had him lauded for being a refreshing renaissance of new street-pop.
Widely celebrated as one of the leading voices of Nigeria’s street-hop movement, Small Doctor has carved out a legendary status with his infectious energy, streetwise lyrics, and undeniable charisma. Bursting onto the scene with hits like “Penalty”, which became a nationwide anthem, Small Doctor brought the raw sound of Agege to mainstream audiences, blending fuji influences with pulsating beats and relatable, often humorous storytelling. His music resonates deeply with the streets, giving voice to everyday struggles, aspirations, and the vibrant spirit of Lagos life. Through his consistency and authenticity, Small Doctor remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of street music, inspiring a generation of artistes who see the streets not as a limitation, but as a powerful launchpad.
– by TMarv & K-D
- Zinoleesky
Zinoleesky has carved his name into the heart of Nigeria’s street pop scene by merging effortless melody, raw lyricism, and an unshakable connection to the streets that birthed him. Emerging from the trenches of Agege, Lagos, his music, a very interesting mix of street rhythms and soulful introspection feels like a late-night conversation between hustlers dreaming of better days. His genius lies in his ability to make struggle sound so soothing, turning pain into poetry and street realities into irresistibly catchy hooks. He produces anthems that take over the streets, dominates the charts and still resonates with the hearts of the masses. Hits like "Kilofeshe" and "Rocking" only further proves this point. He crafts anthems of resilience.
I believe what sets Zinoleesky apart from his peers is his refusal to conform. He’s a street poet with a honeyed voice, a rare combination in a genre often dominated by aggressive energy. In the conversation of versatility, he surely can’t be counted out. Tracks like “Mapariwo" and "Yan Yan Yan" showcase his versatility, shifting from laid-back serenades to high-energy bangers without losing his signature cool. Even as he rose under Marlian Music’s banner, Zinoleesky never diluted his sound; instead, he elevated it, collaborating with heavyweights like Naira Marley and Lil Kesh while staying rooted in the raw, unfiltered essence of his beginnings. His music doesn’t just resonate: it lingers, like the scent of rain on Lagos dust.
Zino is simply a cultural architect, shaping the sound and spirit of modern street pop. Beyond the music, his laid-back persona and sharp fashion sense have also made him a style icon, inspiring a wave of young artists who see him as the blueprint for staying true while leveling up. Staying true while crafting a movement is a challenge but Zinoleesky pulls that off effortlessly. A movement where the streets don’t just survive, they thrive, they dream, they glow while at it. He’s a quiet revolutionary, turning whispers into waves. The new age of street pop will always be accommodating and appreciative of Zino because his talent differs from anything the culture has ever experienced in its history.
– by WO
- Portable
In the future, movies will be made about Portable’s career, and generations who didn’t get to experience it in real time would wonder if most of it is true. That is the complexity, defiance, and obstinacy that shape his career. A man to whom little his given in a society that takes more than it gives, Portable rode into the mainstream on the shoulders of the greatest street hop star, Olamide Baddo, and used this opportunity to carve a niche for himself.
He is one of the many stars who would have been making Fuji music if Afrobeats didn’t exist, and these cultural influences are most prominent in his music, which he uses to share his every thought without care or concern for whose Ox is gored. His newsmaking antics have won him as much admiration as ire from colleagues and fans. He never misses an opportunity to be in the news, nor is he reluctant to turn every viral moment into music.
Portable doesn’t make this list by the quality or impact of his music. Instead, he squeezes himself into the list of great street hop stars by simply being more vehemently street than everyone else. And it’s this daring spirit, obstinacy, and defiance that he would be remembered for.
– by AA
Honorable Mention;
- Marvelous Benji
- CDQ
- Slim Case
- Mr Real Idowest
- T.I Blaze
- Zoro
- 2T Boys
- X-Project