2019 gave us a bunch of exciting new stars, including Joeboy, Fireboy DML and Rema. So, as we all settle into 2020, we’ve decided to highlight 10 rising stars that we believe will dominate the music scene this year, based on their past work and unmistakable potential.
Tems
With the undeniable impact of “Try Me”, Tems announced herself as a star on the rise. “Mr Rebel” and “Looku Looku” — the two fantastic singles that preceded that smash hit — also prove the exceptional singer is capable of so much more, and we can’t wait to see her deliver on all that promise.
Gigi Atlantis
Last year, Gigi Atlantis dropped “Wahala On The Rocks” — one of 2019’s best and most underrated gems. Now that she’s dropped a music video, we’re hoping the song catches on, but regardless, if whatever she drops next is even half as good, then 2020 will be her year.
Crayon
While Rema ended up being the bigger star, he wasn’t the only afropop upstart Mavin Records introduced the world to last year. They also gave us Crayon, who quickly revealed his gifts on his astonishing Cray Cray EP. He is more than ready for his own moment in the spotlight.
Terri
Since he landed his big break on 2018’s biggest song, “Soco”, Terri has been releasing solid singles that hint at his potential. With the announcement of his debut project, Afro Series, it’s clear that the Starboy signee is finally ready to make a grand statement.
Oxlade
More than any other artist on this list, it’s clear that Oxlade is right on the cusp of becoming one of Nigeria’s biggest stars. With every new song and feature, it becomes harder to imagine a future without Oxalde at the forefront of the afropop revolution.
BUJU
With the success of his Zlatan-assisted hit, “Spiritual”, BUJU shot to the top of the list of ‘stars to watch’. Since then, he’s dropped other singles that show just how skilled he is at crafting earworms — a gift that will surely help make his 2020 domination a veritable cakewalk.
Tolani
At the start of 2019, Tolani teamed up with Reekado Banks for her biggest song yet, “Ba Mi Lo”. She then followed it up with two equally refreshing singles, “Liar” and “Maybe Baby”. A breath of fresh air in our overcrowded afropop landscape, the r&b star deserves superstardom.
Oladapo
While JoeBoy became emPawa’s breakout star, he wasn’t the only gifted artist that got the Mr Eazi seal of approval. Oladopo was one of the initiative’s most exciting picks, dropping the underrated “Gbe Bodi”. If he maintains that quality, he will become a household name in no time
Lyta
2019 was a really great year for Lyta. He scored a smash hit, “Monalisa” and landed one of Davido’s strongest features. With all that momentum, the afropop star should be able to make a real name for himself this year, as long as he continues to drop infectious hits.
MOJO
The charismatic MOJO broke out with one of 2019’s most essential anthems, “Chop Life Crew”. He then followed that up with the party-starting banger, “Shawarma”. Both songs not only showcase his range, but they also make a great case for his mainstream dominance.
