The Nigerian music industry has witnessed significant growth and international recognition in recent years, with several Nigerian musicians signing deals with international record labels.
Here is a list of 10 popular Nigerian musicians who have signed with international record labels:
Patoranking: Patoranking, a reggae and dancehall superstar, signed with VP Records, a New York City independent label known for releasing reggae and dancehall music.
Odumodublvck: The rapper signed a record deal with NATIVE Records in partnership with Def Jam in 2022 and later an exclusive deal with Def Jam Recordings in 2023.
Tems: Tems, a singer, songwriter, and record producer, signed with RCA Records in 2021 and has since released hit singles like “Essence.”
Tiwa Savage: Tiwa Savage signed with Universal Music Group’s Motown Records in 2016 and has released numerous hit singles and albums.
Burna Boy: Burna Boy signed with Bad Habit/Atlantic Records in the United States and Warner Music Group worldwide in 2017, winning a Grammy Award in 2021.
Wizkid: Wizkid signed with Sony Music’s RCA Records in 2016 and released hit songs like “Come Closer” and “Essence.”
Davido: Davido signed with Sony Music through RCA Records in 2016, becoming the first Nigerian musician to sign an international record deal.
Olamide: Olamide signed a joint venture deal with Empire in 2021 and is also the CEO of the record label YBNL.
Pheelz: Pheelz, a singer and songwriter, signed a deal with Warner Records in the United States in 2022.
Brymo: Brymo, a singer and songwriter, signed a recording and distribution deal with Tate Music Group, a US-based music firm, after leaving Chocolate City in 2015.
These artists have not only contributed to the global popularity of Nigerian music but have also achieved remarkable success in their careers.