Spotify, the world’s leading online streaming platform, has crowned Nigerian rap star Olamide Adedeji, aka “Olamide”, as the ‘most influential street pop artiste of his generation’. In a statement released on Thursday in Lagos, Spotify’s editor for West Africa, Benewaah Boateng, hailed Olamide and his fellow street pop artists for their remarkable and thrilling rise in the Nigerian music scene.
What is Street Pop and Why Does It Matter?
Street Pop is a sub-genre of music that emerged from a fusion of Afrobeats, Highlife, Hip-hop, Fuji, Apala, indigenous sounds, and contemporary elements. It features an engaging rhythm, pulsating fast-paced beats, and lyrics that reflect the everyday lives of Nigerians navigating the challenges of the streets. Street Pop is more than just music, it’s a lifestyle. It connects with the harsh realities of everyday life in Nigeria and gives a voice to the voiceless. It also inspires and entertains millions of fans across the country and beyond.
Olamide: The King of Street Pop
Olamide is the undisputed king of street pop. He has been consistently praised for his role in elevating street pop to mainstream recognition as a distinct music genre. Since the debut of his hit single, “Eni Duro”, he has been a constant cultural force, popularising dance styles like “Shakiti Bobo” and street lingos like “Baddo Sneh” and “Pepper Dem”. Through his record label YBNL, Olamide has also played a pivotal role in discovering and nurturing Nigeria’s brightest street pop talents, such as Fireboy DML and Asake. Olamide is currently the ninth most streamed artist in Nigeria on Spotify. His most recent project, “Unruly”, received widespread acclaim from fans who described it as a brilliant body of work. One particular track that resonated exceptionally well with audiences is “Gaza”, which showcases Olamide’s musical craftsmanship and appeal.
Seyi Vibez and Zinoleesky: The New Wave of Street Pop Stars
Seyi Vibez and Zinoleesky are two of the most promising street pop stars in Nigeria. They have emerged as undeniable forces in the street pop scene, especially in 2023, after finding mainstream success in 2022. They have ingrained themselves in the hearts of Gen-Zs and millennials, with catchy phrases like “na ham, na ham” from Seyi Vibez’s popular song, “Chance”. Their success in 2023 is evident, from selling out their concert at the O2 Indigo Hall in the UK to securing features on hit songs like Gwagwalada, the second most streamed song in Nigeria on Spotify. Seyi Vibez and Zinoleesky have also earned spots among the top five and top 15 most streamed artists in Nigeria respectively, proving their ability to transcend street pop and strike a chord with all music lovers.
The Future of Street Pop in Nigeria and Beyond
Street Pop is not a passing trend, it’s here to stay. As the genre continues to evolve and street pop artists continue to explore new creative frontiers, it is evident that street pop is poised for exponential growth in the years to come. Street Pop has already influenced and inspired other genres of music, such as Afro-pop, Afro-fusion, and Afro-swing. It has also gained international recognition and appreciation, with artists like Olamide, Seyi Vibez, and Zinoleesky collaborating with global stars like Drake, Wizkid, and Burna Boy. Street Pop is the sound of the Nigerian youth, and it is taking over the world.
If you want to experience the energy and excitement of street pop, don’t miss the chance to stream their songs on Spotify, follow them on Instagram, or catch them live on stage. You won’t regret it!
