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  • Ever wondered the songs your parents were listening to on the radio — yes, listening to radios was once fashionable — when you were in the womb? Well, Gen Zs, we’re here to help because these were the songs that were bangers in the year you were born. 

    You’re welcome. 

    Kukere — Iyanya (2012)

    Iyanya had Nigerians in a chokehold the year this song came out. Once you heard, “All my ladies,” you knew it was time to break it down. Kukere was so inescapable, there’s a high chance even your grandma might remember it. 

    Chop My Money — P-Square (2011) 

    To think most of us sang Chop My Money even when our broke asses knew there was no money to be chopped. Anyway, if you were born in 2011, you have to work hard so you’ll live out your destiny as a sugar parent. 

    Oleku — Ice Prince (2010)

    The combination of Ice Prince, Brymo and Jesse Jagz was all we needed to start a new decade. Good times for real. Gen Z’s might never know what life was like back when a dollar was just ₦150. 

    Yori Yori — Bracket (2009) 

    Everyone complains about Yoruba demons, but have you had an Igbo man try to toast you? Bracket’s Yori Yori is a classic example of an Igbo man’s sweet mouth. You’ll be listening to the song and smiling like a fool. May God save us. 

    Gongo Aso — 9ice (2008) 

    No one was doing it like 9ice in 2008. With one of the hottest albums and tracks of the year, this guy was so gassed, he even saw himself winning a Grammy. While that hasn’t happened, no one can contest that Gongo Aso was a major musical moment Nigerians will never forget. 

    Yahooze — Olu Maintain (2007) 

    You know your song is big when it inspires a dance craze that becomes so common, people use it for other songs. Yahoozee was THAT GIRL in 2007. We don’t support the message behind this song, but Yahooze walked so Cash App could run. Also, there’s a high chance this was Hushpuppi’s anthem back in the day. 

    Ijoya — Weird MC (2006) 

    Ijoya was EPIC, and that intro was such an earworm. But you see its music video? Our minds couldn’t contain it. If you were born in 2006, just know you have no choice but to be a creative genius. The bar was raised to the skies that year. 

    RECOMMENDED: If Gen Zs Don’t Say These 12 Things in a Day, They Might Actually Die

    Mr. President — African China (2005) 

    African China released a whole song begging Nigerian leaders to fix up and do their job. I’m sure some Gen Z’s are thinking, “But we’re still asking for the same things boo.” Well, babes, this struggle? Omo no be today e start. 

    African Queen — 2face Idibia (2004) 

    Before Wizkid’s Essence or Burna Boy’s Ye became an international cultural movement, father Abraham 2face Idibia was laying the groundwork with this 2004 classic. African Queen shifted the culture and introduced a new wave of Afrobeats to the world. Respect that!

    Danfo Driver — Mad Melon and Mountain Black (2003) 

    We need to bring back the galala and swo dance moves. All this variation of leg work, are you people not tired? Throw on some Danfo Driver and show us what you’ve got. Dear Gen Zs, this song is an important piece of Afropop history; study it.

    Mr. Lecturer — Eedris Abdulkareem (2002) 

    Twenty years later and the message behind Mr. Lecturer is still relevant today. But that’s the thing about Eedris Abdulkareem songs because the last time I checked, Nigeria is still jaga jaga and that’s the (cold) tea. 

    My Car — Tony Tetuila (2001) 

    Honestly, Mr. Tony, if more than one person bashes your car in the same day, then maybe you’re the problem. Just let that sink in. Gen Zs born in 2001 are obviously bad drivers — it’s not a coincidence. 

    Konko Below — Lagbaja (2000)

    Before there was Meghan Thee Stallion, Cardi B or Nicki Minaj, there was Lagbaja. Thanks to this OG twerk anthem, Lagbaja had everyone with their hands on their knees popping their bootys. WAP and Anaconda are cute, but none of them come close to the power of Konko Below. 

    Diana — Daddy Showkey (1999)

    A masterclass in storytelling, Daddy Showkey’s Diana is a classic we all love. This man gave us a whole episode of Super Story and This Life in less than five minutes. We just have to stan. 

    Skakomo — Remedies (1998) 

    Shakomo takes us back to the days when Nigerian artists used to copy and paste American beats without shame. To be fair, 2pac was busy fighting Notorious B.I.G so I doubt he noticed this hit. 

    Dem Go Dey Pose — Baba Fryo (1997) 

    Gen Zs have PrettyBoy DO and Cruel Santino, but right when their era was about to start in 1997, Baba Fryo was the man of the moment. 

    ALSO READ: We Found the Songs Nigerian Gen Zs Listen to After Heartbreak

  • There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, you absolutely need to hear. 

    We made it to Friday! Whether or not you accomplished anything this week, you deserve to pat yourself on the back and celebrate. As your resident music “expert”, I’ve decided to put you on to some good stuff to get your weekend vibe right. 

    Dig in. 

    Little (Love I Love) — Teni 

    When Teni loves, she loves real hard — this babe threatened to fight agberos on 2018’s Case and offered up all her money for love on last year’s For You with Davido. On her latest amapiano-inspired single, Little (Love I Love), Teni tells us, “Na love I love, I no kill somebody”. Sis, are you sure? 

    Call Me Every Day — Chris Brown and Wizkid

    After three songs together, I won’t be shocked if Wizkid and Chris Brown drop a joint EP. While Call Me Every Day is a single off Chris’ new album, Breezy, the vibe of the song feels very Wizkid. It’s almost like Chris is the featured artist and the song is a leftover from Made in Lagos. One thing I know for sure, though, is a lot of waists will be broken to this song. So, please, lube it up. 

    Hustle — Ice Prince, Seyi Vibez and Ceeza Milli

    “Hustle no dey kill nobody o!” Errm, Ice Prince, have you met me? I don’t like stress, please. After killing it last year with Oxlade on KOLO, Ice Prince is back with another potential banger, Hustle featuring Seyi Vibez and Ceeza Milli. If you liked Pheelz and BNXN’s Finesse like a normal human being, there’s a high chance you’d be into Hustle. Both songs have the same sing-along chants that just get Nigerians going!

    RECOMMENDED: Nigerian Singers, Leave Folake Alone and Focus on These Other Women

    Daylight — Bigfootinyourface and Dwin, The Stoic

    Oontz oontz music is finally getting the public recognition it deserves, and I’m here for it. Like Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind album and Beyoncé’s Break My Soul, Daylight by Bigfootinyourface and Dwin, The Stoic is another house music that reminds us to forget capitalism and party. While we love Dwin’s soothing voice convincing us to dance until daylight, the Nigerian in us doesn’t fully agree with the “there’s nothing to lose” line sha. 

    Let You Down — Boybreed

    Even though Boybreed have two EPs and collaborations with Patoranking and Ycee under their belts, I didn’t know about them until last night. Yes, I messed up. Their newest single, Let You Down — lowkey reminds me of 2016 to 2017 Maleek Berry — is a vulnerable yet solid exploration of grief. It’s like, do I want to cry or do I want to dance? Let’s do both.  

    Mind — Romi 

    Listening to Romi’s Mind, I couldn’t help but say “Oh shit!” repeatedly. This is a solid song for a debut or just for an artist in general. While the reflective song slightly suffers in differentiating Romi’s vocal identity from the myriad of young Afropop singers we have today, its catchy melody and hook will worm their way into your head and stay there.  

    I’m curious to see what Romi puts out next with a song like Mind. 

    ALSO READ: These Alté Nigerian Musicians Don’t Look Like Their Government Names

  • We have one question for time: Sis, where are you running to? One minute we’re asking people for their BBM pin, and the next thing, we’re out on the streets wearing nose masks and dancing on TikTok. While we all, unfortunately, remember 2012 as the year of Ama Kip Kip and My Money Grows Like Grass t-shirts, these were some of the albums that truly defined that year. 

    OBO (Omo Baba Olowo): The Genesis — Davido 

    From the early days of “On the beat is Davido” to major worldwide tours, Davido has come a long way since his debut in 2012. OBO (Omo Baba Olowo): The Genesis was responsible for songs like Back When with Naeto C and the smash hit, Dami Duro. Davido took over with his carrot jeans, and Afrobeats has never remained the same. 

    YBNL — Olamide 

    Ten years and with over ten albums to his name now, Olamide has refused to drop the ball. YBNL gave us the azonto-heavy, First of All, as well as Voice of the Streets, Ilefo Illuminati and the seriously underrated International Local with Tiwa Savage. 

    Solar Plexus — Mavin 

    We were all shook when Don Jazzy confirmed that Mo’Hits Records had separated in 2012. But the shock reached a new level when Don Jazzy announced a new record label, Mavin Records, and dropped a surprise album, Solar Plexus drop later that year. Mo’Hits’ blood was still fresh on the streets when we started singing, “Take banana till you go yo.” Yes, D’Prince had the best song on this album. While Mavin has evolved over the years to become the label for stars like Ayra Starr and Ladipoe, those “Mavin activated” days were golden. 

    Blessed — Flavour 

    Flavour came in, took off his shirt, whined his waist furiously, sang about forgetting enjoyment and stole our hearts just like that. Please, fear Igbo men. Blessed is one of his best albums to date. Even today, no wedding is complete without Ada Ada, and no party can close without breaking people’s waists with Shake. I for iconic!

    RECOMMENDED: Do Nigerian Music Albums Need to Be Cohesive?

    Empire Mates State of Mind — EME All Stars 

    In 2012, no record label was complete until it dropped a compilation album. After Don Jazzy pulled up with Solar Plexus, Ebute Metta crooner, Banky W dropped Empire Mates State of Mind for his label, Empire Mates. The album included hits like Baddest Boy, Dance For Me, Roll It and Get Down Tonight. Ah, nostalgia!

    Book of Rap Stories — Reminisce 

    It’s hard not to lose your home training when Kako Bi Chicken comes on, even in 2022. Admit it. No one will judge because we’ve all been there. With Olamide and the late Dagrin blowing up street-influenced rap, Reminisce’s Book of Rap Stories came at the right time and left its mark on the music scene. 

    Above and Beyond — 2Baba Idibia 

    You had to be there. 

    Do we wish one of 2Baba’s best songs from this era, Only Me, was on Above and Beyond? Yes. But he still gave us Ihe Neme, Dancing in the Rain and the pre-Instagram-dama romantic bop, Rainbow. You have to give it to Annie’s man. He was dropping bops up and down. Come through, African king!

    Oga Boss — Ill Bliss 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VXKCzYvYpM

    Yes, kids, Ill Bliss from King of Boys is the same person responsible for street anthems like Anamachi Kwanu and Emini Baller with Chidinma. This man killed it with his album Oga Boss in 2012, and now he’s literally killing it on our screens. It’s giving range; Love it. 

    The Year of R ‘n’ B — Capital F.E.M.I 

    What happened to Capital F.EM.I? This man popped up with some Joe and Tyrese early 2000s baby-making R&B vibe and disappeared. Baby, I Got It with Eedris Abdulkareem was inescapable that year, and we thought he’d be around for much longer. Bring back grown R&B!!

    ALSO READ: Want to Feel Old? These Nigerian Songs Are Turning 10 in 2022


  • The last time Falz dropped an album, we hadn’t experienced a panini or the life-changing #EndSARS protests. It was 2019, Miss ‘Rona was still preparing for her tour, and all was relatively alright with the world. Back with a six-pack, Falz is ready to make a surprising statement with his new album, Bahd. 

    Considering 2019’s Moral Instruction and the significant role Falz played during the protests, you’d immediately think Bahd would be drenched in social justice anthems. Choosing the soft life instead, this album finds Falz in his most chill era yet, avoiding stress and being a baby boy. While we’re here for his obvious sonic growth and much-needed dive into escapism, we’re not sure everything slaps. 

    The Breakdown

    Bahd opens with the smooth and simple Another Me. Carried by a super seductive bass guitar, we’re also introduced to Falz doing his best Don Toliver impersonation (spoiler alert: it works). Another Me kicks things off early on, on a positive note, managing to blend both the nostalgia of 90s baby-making R&B and the mumble rap that kids on TikTok fuck with these days. Listening to the past and the future in one song is always welcome experience.

    Falz does well to deploy some of the album’s best tracks to the front in a five-song stretch. Another me is followed by All Night, the album’s first potential radio hit and a romantic bop that needs its video like yesterday. Tiwa Savage lends her in-demand vocals to Beautiful Sunflower, the album’s third track and first collaboration. It’s a cute song, but there isn’t a lot of meat on the track, which is slightly disappointing considering what both stars are capable of. 

    RECOMMENDED: Do Nigerian Music Albums Need to Be Cohesive?

    Parampe is the second standout track on the album and an obvious nod to the work of the Kutis, but without the gragra of a certain African Giant. It borrows from these icons without drowning out Falz’ identity in the process. Knee Down marks the first collaboration to make a statement, with Chike deep in his Nollywood “I will die for you” lover boy bag on the track’s chorus.

    These songs are unfortunately followed by the uninteresting Pull Up, which sounds like a 2017 Runtown or Mr. Eazi bonus track, and Gentleman, where Falz frustratingly does his best to make a song out of every rhyming word in the dictionary.  

    Highlife brothers, The Cavemen, help Falz find his groove again on Woman, before we’re introduced to Tender Love, which packs a tender punch. The last three songs are features, with Timaya and new Mavin signee Boy Spice making an appearance on the Duktor Sett-produced, Inside — a highlife “let’s groove” banger that works on it’s own, but fails to tie in with the overall production vibe of the album. 

    L.A.X and BNXN round up the album with Roger Milla and Ice Cream respectively. Roger Milla feels like an album filler, and for someone who’s last album had just nine tracks, this feels unnecessary.  BNXN continues his winning streak with the infectious line, “I scream, you scream, we scream for ice cream.”  What do you all know about being a lyricist? 

    Our Verdict

    Falz has built a reputation for making digestible rap with a pendulum that’s swung between conscious and overly playful. But with Bahd, we see the rapper leave both identities behind for something more laidback. He’s not out to make a major statement with this album, but we can’t complain. Not all the songs on Bahd are winners, but the ones that hit? They really hit.

    Highs: Another Me, All Night, Parampe, Knee Down, Woman, Inside and Ice Cream

    Lows: Pull Up, Gentleman and Roger Milla

    We don’t know: Beautiful Sunflower and Tender Love

    ALSO READ: Forget the Music, Why Is Everyone Still Obsessed With Naira Marley?

  • Can we all agree that the DJ who kept dropping bops was the best part of last night’s APC convention? While we sat and watched contestant after contestant come on stage to either step-down or drop hot lies, the DJ turned each break into a dance party. Inspired by his incredibly shady playlist, we’ve decided to give each presidential candidate a song that accurately matches their chaotic energy. 

    1. Bola Ahmed Tinubu — Buga (Lo Lo Lo) by Kizz Daniel 

    This election has given Tinubu more nicknames than your local up and coming rapper. The self-declared kingmaker who’s decided that he must be president before he turns 100, was welcomed to the APC convention stage with “Collect your money. Wake up” from Kizz Daniel’s Buga (Lo Lo Lo), playing loudly. After hearing the lyrics to that song, we’re not surprised other candidates started withdrawing from the race. It’s almost like the ₦100 million they spent in buying the presidential form was shawarma money. 

    2. Professor Yemi Osinbajo — Playboy by Fireboy DML 

    No other song describes our BDSM king like this banger from Fireboy DML. A true Yoruba demon tune, Professor Yemi Osinbajo is the biggest political playboy of the presidential race. He has the swagger, the white agbada, the sweet mouth and most importantly, the gaslighting tricks. This man promised to change Nigeria and literally give us the moon like he hasn’t been a part of the current government for seven years. We see you, Christian Grey. Ooof!

    3. Atiku Abubakar — Stand Strong by Davido 

    This has to be Atiku’s morning devotion song. After running for president five times, this man is still standing strong, even though most of us would prefer it if he just sat down. It can’t be that deep, sir. It’s almost like he forgot something in Aso Rock, because why has he been running for president way before we even had Nokia 3310? On Stand Strong, Davido sings about having more than nine lives, which might mean Atiku has three more elections if he loses the one in 2023. Wahala. 

    4. Rochas Okorocha — Levels by Flavour 

    It’s only in Nigeria that a presidential aspirant will confidently announce at the primaries that less than a week ago, he was in detention based on corruption charges. Rochas came on the stage to shade all the other aspirants and remind them that he was rich before he even went into politics, unlike the other brokies using government funds to run. With that type of energy, there’s no way Levels by Flavour isn’t this man’s theme song. Shade aside, that statement is rich, coming from someone who allegedly stole over ₦2.9 billion from public funds. Glass houses, Rochas, glass houses. 

    RECOMMENDED: These Politicians’ Kids Are Taking Over from Their Parents

    5. Peter Obi — Gentility by Melvitto and Wande Coal 

    Peter Obi definitely listens to Gentitility, and we aren’t talking about the sped-up TikTok version. The former Anambra state governor has moved from vice presidential candidate to presidential aspirant at the PDP and now, Labour Party presidential candidate. He may not have the initial ginger of all the other presidential candidates, but he has managed to become an underdog ahead of the 2023 polls. You can definitely tell that this man recites the lines “Gentitlity oshey stupidity” every time he wakes up. 

    6. Nyesom Wike — Free Madness by Terry G 

    Is there anyone Nyesom Wike hasn’t fought with? From Bubu to Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki, this man is famous for giving you gbas gbos if you mistakenly breathe in his direction. Since he lost the PDP ticket to Vin Diesel Atiku Abubakar, we doubt we’ll be seeing that energy in Aso Rock. Either way, Free Madness is definitely his morning alarm song. 

    7. Uju Ohanenye — Sweet Mother by Prince Nico

    We should’ve known something was wrong when she started her speech by saying,” Naijas”. Where is the “s” from? Who says that? Because her motivation to run hinged on the assumption that Nigeria needs a mother, it feels apt that her official theme song be Sweet Mother by Prince Nico. Thanks for coming ma. 

    8. Rotimi Amaechi — Kilometre by Burna Boy

    Why Kilometre by Burna Boy? Amaechi was the Minister of Transport, and he also ran a lap around a stadium to prove he’s fit to run for president. We didn’t even have to dig deep for this one. He repeatedly asked delegates not to vote for him if they didn’t think he was qualified. Quick question, sir, are we voting for a president or someone to represent us at the Olympics? 

    ALSO READ: Ranked: Top 15 Burna Boy Songs of All Time, According to Album Release

  • One thing about Naira Marley, the man loves chaos. Four years after kicking his way into the Nigerian music scene with 2018’s Issa Goal, the infamous Marlian leader released his debut album, God’s Timing Is The Best on Monday, the 30th of May 2022. In a time where Fridays have become the official day to flood the airwaves and streamers with new music, Naira Marley’s decision to pick a Monday feels chaotic, but is also reflective of who he is — a disruptive artist whose star has been powered by controversy from the very start. 

    As I said, chaos is nothing new to the Lagos-born, Peckham-raised artist. Between 2018 and 2019, Naira Marley’s ascension to the top of the charts and social media conversations saw him go through police and EFCC raids, court sittings, social media backlash (or praise, depending on what side you’re on), sold-out shows, and countless hits. Between May and September of 2019 alone, he dropped the certified bangers, Am I A Yahoo Boy, Soapy, Opotoyi, Pxta, Tesumole and Mafo. 

    It doesn’t matter whether or not I subscribe to the Marlian way of life; it’s hard to deny the unstoppable force that is Naira Marley. The man drops a song, and suddenly, you can’t escape it. From rowdy bus stops to bougie clubs, Naira Marley is everywhere all at once. He is a movement. 

    With this much controversy, Naira Marley is not your conventional star. Going by his antics and shocking lyrics, this is the type of artist parents would ban their kids from listening to in a heartbeat. So why are we still obsessed with Naira Marley? 

    RECOMMENDED: 10 Nigerian Songs That Are Yoruba Men’s Anthems

    One thing about Naira Marley that I recently discovered is how he taps into the dramatic chaos of some of the artists before him. Artists that we loved. Think back to Terry G’s Free Madness era and how the unhinged star had all of us in a chokehold. Then there’s early Timaya — not the mellow Cold Outside Timaya Gen Zs know today, but the one that frowned on all his album covers and sang about the killings in Bayelsa state. I also feel the need to add the king of the streets, Olamide, whose decision to name his record label Yahoo Boy No Laptop (YBNL) was a major conversation back in the day. Naira Marley leans into this feeling of nostalgia where everything and everyone was extra. Think Cruel Santino, but comprehensible. And it’s not just the music; it’s the energy—the rebellious energy of the ones that came before. 

    This rebellious energy is arguably why Naira Marley gets a pass, especially with a generation that is tired of being told what to do. While Naira Marley had built a massive fanbase before the #EndSARS protests of 2020, it took the protests happening for me to finally understand why he was such a modern day rockstar. Agreeing with his alleged lifestyle or not, his entire existence and success are a big middle finger to the powers that be, especially the police and other security agencies. And with more young Nigerians feeling the need to rage against the system, it makes sense for Naira Marley to be placed on an artistic pedestal. After all, it feels good to see someone beat the system over and over again. 

    Antics and controversy aside, the music still matters to me. And while I still describe myself as Marlian-adjacent, the music doesn’t slap like it used to. The shock value and repetitive beats have worn off, and now, I want more. The thing is, I know he’s capable of delivering. God’s Timing Is The Best has its moments, but I expected better from a debut album that was due like four years ago. When Naira Marley came on the scene, we didn’t have the Zinoleeskeys, MohBads or Zlatans killing the game and blurring the lines between the streets and our playlists. So to keep up, our favourite rebel might have to reinvent his sound because shock value won’t do much  for you in a time where Nigerians move on quickly. 

    ALSO READ: Internet Fraud’s Marriage To Naija Music Could Go In Different Ways

  • Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, popularly known as Kizz Daniel, is one Nigerian musician we can bank on to produce hit songs with every release. When Kizz Daniel titled his second album “No Bad Songz”, he was correct and confident. Here are ten songs that prove Kizz Daniel has no bad music. 

    Mama

    Mama was released in 2016 and still slaps today. It’s a beautiful romantic song with an unmistakable message. This song is a party rocker, a proposal jam, and a wedding banger. We stan a versatile bop.

    Madu

    Before we get into Madu, can we talk about how hot the video is? Madu itself is a hot song and should be on your sex playlist. It’s a song about the countless things a man wants to do to your body (with your consent, of course)

    One Ticket

    Two of my faves on one song? Yasss gurl. Let’s be very honest, the babes hurt Kizz and Davido in One Ticket, but we support women’s wrongs as much as we support women’s rights. Geddit girl. 

    Ello Baby

    Kizz Daniel’s ability to make a love song into a party song is one of our favourite things about him. He’s toasting you with the music while making you dance and smile from ear to ear. Shakespeare is shaking. 

    Eh God (Barnabas)

    LOL. Eh God is the song you listen to every morning before starting your day. It’s like a prayer, but not really. 

    RELATED: Love It/Hate It: Kizz Daniel’s Barnabas

    Lie

    Men LIE! Don’t believe any man who says he’s not lying to you. Lie is the song you hear blasting through your man’s speakers right after he lies to you. 

    Poko

    Ok, at this point, we should give Kizz an award for singing the songs women want to hear. Whew, he makes music for baddies and probably doesn’t realise it. 

    Sofa

    Kizz was giving us some rasta influence in Sofa. I want to chill on the sofa, doing cute stuff with someone. 

    Currently 

    Currently could have been titled “Currency” to avoid confusion, but that’s not the point. Kizz Daniel nailed the features on Currently. 

    Buga 

    Buga is a jam that can also serve as alarm clock music. I mean, “Gbe’ra, gbe’ra

    gbe’ra, go get that mullah (wake up). Mo ni ko kala. Kala gb’owo yẹn o” sounds like something you should hear first thing in the morning. 

    ALSO READ: Ranked: Top 10 Nigerian Love Songs and the Best Moments to Use Them

  • Millennials like me know that no one is doing heartbreak like Nigerian artists back in the day. Remember when P-Square had a meltdown after catching their babe with their best friend in Omoge Mi? Or the time Darey’s dramatic ass was playing a massive piano in Not the Girl, all because his girl had removed her wig and changed face? Those were the good times. But with everyone doing sungbalaja these days, I became curious to know if Gen Zs get heartbroken and, most importantly, the songs they listen to when it happens. 

    Tapped into my inner Gen Z to write this, and I hope I made my faves proud. 

    Zikoko is launching a new series where we explore those friendships, familial and romantic relationships that are no longer sailing.

    1. Higher — Tems 

    I don’t even have to listen to the lyrics to know that Higher is about a severe heartbreak. Tems has a great voice, and you can hear the pain with every note she hits in this song. Even though she keeps saying she’ll wait for the person, she finally realises they aren’t worth it, and honestly, she’s probably right. Go bestie!

    2. Beggie Beggie — Ayra Starr and Ckay 

    “See the way I dey beg you, shey bambi allah mo je ni”. For a generation that likes to avoid bad energy and vibes, Beggie Beggie sounds like stress and suffering. I guess this is the song you play when you’re still trying to make it work. Love yourself, boo, and break free from this toxic shit. 

    3. Understand — Omah Lay 

    When the love was sweet for Omah Lay, he sang about how his babe’s beauty was bursting his eyeglass. But now, home boy is entering the rain because he gave her his umbrella, and let’s not forget the part where she cheated on him with the friend he introduced her to. For a Taurus, Omah Lay’s reaction is not giving what it’s supposed to give. 

    4. Me You I — The Cavemen

    Me You I is giving old Nollywood village film vibes, and I can’t help but stan. I can already imagine Pete Edochie as the king and Patience Ozorkwor as the wicked stepmother. Stop crying, my love. The juju will wear off one day, and your village prince will come back into your arms. 

    5. EGO — Sarz and Wurld 

    Honestly, I’m not surprised EGO came up in my discussions with Gen Z people. These days, everyone is trying to outdo the next person, even in relationships. So it makes sense that a song about not calling your lover because you want to form “hard guy” is an anthem for this generation. Quick question: why is everything a competition though? 

    6. Cold Outside — Timaya and BNXN 

    Who would’ve thought a Timaya song would make it on a Gen Z’s breakup playlist. Maybe it’s because we have baby giant BNXN singing about how he’s levelled up and doesn’t need his ex anymore. These are the things we actually love to see. While we’re on Timaya’s case, can someone please introduce Gen Zs to the classic that is Dem Mama? It’s not every time heartbreak up and down. 

    RECOMMENDED: 15 Nigerian Gen Z’ers Tell Us What They Really Think About Nigerian Millennials

    7. Searching — Lady Donli 

    Lady Donli is a Gen Z icon and that’s on Mo Abudu’s Brazilian bone straight. After telling everyone to get some cash, avoid suffering and enjoy their lives, Lady Donli sings about finding herself outside of a broken relationship. This is for when you want to start posting quotes on socials to remind them you’ve healed.

    8. Away — Ayra Starr

    This babe has a song called Cast (Gen Z Anthem) and you thought she’d only appear on this list once? Before starting a global movement with Bloody Samaritan, Ayra popped up on our radar with this badass song about unstaning your lover because their star sign doesn’t align with yours. It’s probably not what she said, but my version has more drama, so go with it. 

    9. LEAVE ME ALONE — Amaarae

    Amarachi’s biggest song might be that “I really like to party, I really like spaghetti” song, but LEAVE ME ALONE is the breakup anthem I didn’t know I needed. Shoutout to my Gen Z faves for hooking me up. I’m literally obsessed!  

    10. Tinko Tinko (Don’t Play Me for a Fool) — Obongjayar 

    Not gonna lie, I felt it when Obongjayar sang, “Don’t be fucking with my head.” Like, I literally felt it in my spirit. It’s almost like I finally realised why Mercury has been drinking Lucozade since January. 

    Did it work? Did I sound like a Gen Z? Yassss!

    11. Bibanke — Asa

    I stan a cross-generational hit! Even though she’s now making happy music about love, friendship and breaking peoples’ backs, Asa will always be our guitar-wielding heartbreak queen. 

    12. Sip (Alcohol) — Joeboy

    Personally, I’ve realised that there’s no breakup too strong for tequila and vodka (not together o, unless you’re a cultist). I guess Gen Zs and I have this in common, and that’s why this song is on their lists. 

    ALSO READ: 8 Things Gen-Z Nigerians Should Be Able to Accomplish in a Day

  • Have you ever listened to a song with two different artists on it and gone, “Yes! We need more of that”? For us, it’s a yes. We’ve listened to the artists on this list and wanted more: features, singles, a joint album, or anything that can quench our thirst. Here are a few Nigerian music collaborations that left us wanting more.

    Wande Coal and Melvitto 

    Melvitto and Wande did the Lord’s work when recording Gentility. They whet our appetite with that song and now we want more!

    https://twitter.com/Desayo_A/status/1207409381010223104?s=20&t=eT17i-xJx_QtCWI3IBloLA

    Burna Boy and Wizkid 

    Are we asking for too much if we beg the Nigerian G.O.A.Ts to give us a joint album? Probably yes, but we’re going to ask anyway. Burna and Wizkid already gave us Ginger and  B. d’Or, which proves they work well together.

    Ranked: Top 15 Burna Boy Songs of All Time, According to Album Release

    Amaarae and Tay Iwar

    The fact that Amaarae and Tay Iwar don’t have music together is upsetting us and our homegirls because their voices sound like what great sex feels like. The people need baby-making music, and we know they’re the best duo to deliver. 

    Asa and The Cavemen.

    Asa and The Cavemen teased us with snippets of the times they spent together, and it’s obvious they cooked up a storm because look at the musical masterpiece that is Good Times. We need more from them. Asa and The Cavemen, please, get to work. 

    Tiwa Savage and Davido

    If you’ve listened to Park Well but you disagree with this, we want you to know that you’re a hater. Tiwa and Davido have given us Park Well and Tanana, and we need them to give us some more music together. 

    LeriQ and Burna Boy

    There’s no one LeriQ can’t create madness with, but there’s only one person LeriQ can recreate Comment Tu T’appelle and Turn Up with. We’re willing to take our sacrifices to a T-junction to make this happen.

    ALSO READ: Ranked: Olamide’s Top Ten Features of All Time

  • From Eedris Abdulkareem dragging President Olusegun Obasanjo on Jaga Jaga to M.I making a whole rap song from the titles of other popular songs on Safe, Nigerian rap has been anything but boring. And while we may have switched actual rap beefs for Twitter fights, newer rap gods are taking the game to a whole new level. 

    Is rap still the way it was when Modenine, Sasha P and Dagrin ruled the game? No. But that’s not to say the genre’s not alive and kicking in 9ja. 

    These are some of the Nigerian rappers you should have on your radar in 2022. 

    Zlatan 

    You know you’ve made an impact on pop culture when there’s a dance named after you. Despite being on the scene for a while, 2018 was the year we all got our real dose of Zlatan with his breakout hit, Zanku (Legwork). Since then, the rapper has scored big hits with Burna Boy, Naira Marley, Tiwa Savage and Davido. 

    Continuing the legacy of rappers like Dagrin and Olamide, Zlatan’s Yoruba-heavy flow has crossed over into the mainstream and made him one of the leaders of new school street Hip-Hop artists. Still can’t get over the “You’re not Ayefele, so what’s your excuse?” line from Killin Dem. 

    Psycho YP 

    Psycho YP is one of the most dynamic rappers in the country right now. Going through every emotion from his rage on songs like Smoke 4 Free to badass confidence on Big Moves, Psycho is creating his lane when it comes to rap and no one can cross his line. From trap music to Afropop, Psycho is doing the thing and we’re fully invested. 

    SGawD

    You may not know SGawD now, but trust us when we say you need to get into her now. With a sick flow that can stand toe to toe with most of the rappers in the game right now, it’s no surprise that her 2021 Savage Bitch Juice EP made our albums/EPs of the year list. SGawD is anything but subtle when it comes to telling her stories through rap. With every bar, SGawD demands our attention.

    RECOMMENDED: The 7 Nigerian Singers Guaranteed to Give You a Hit Song in 2022

    Tomi Obanure 

    While the world may view Lagos as the only entertainment hub in Nigeria, a not-so-quiet storm of experimental rappers is brewing in the capital city of Abuja with Tomi Obanure at the forefront. Flipping drill music made famous by artists like Chief Keef, Pop Smoke and Unknown T on its head, Tomi has created something unique to the Nigerian flavour. From his 2019 drop, FFPO to this year’s I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, Tomi reminds us that he is 6’ 3”, sexy and one of the ballsiest rappers around. 

    DETO BLACK 

    The world was in deep lockdown mode when Odunsi (The Engine) dropped the EP, EVERYTHING YOU HEARD IS TRUE. But while we were all excited to hear brand new Odunsi, Body Count was the song everyone just couldn’t stop talking about. Exiting the stage for female rappers to shine, the track introduced us to the badass DETO BLACK. There’s no way you could’ve missed the rapper whose unapologetic lines remind us of the fun, in-your-face flow in the style of faves like Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion. With women taking centre stage in rap on a global scale, rappers like DETO are holding it down for the women here. 

    EESKAY

    If you’ve been to an EESKAY show, you’d know that the rapper has a habit of turning the crowd into a mosh pit. Owning a big part of the drill scene in his own right, EESKAY’s flow is witty, hedonistic and infectious. On his new mixtape, Drill.Or.Nah — Nah here means New Afro Hip-hop — which features the rave-starter, Agbalagba, EESKAY shows us once again that he’s not your average rapper, instead he’s an artist ready to shift the culture. 

    ALSO READ: We Listened and These Are the Biggest Songs of 2022 So Far