Iconic Albums That Changed Nigerian Music

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Writer: Toriala Olawale

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The Nigerian music industry has witnessed numerous iconic albums, from Fela Anikulapo’s era to contemporary releases. Over time, we’ve seen many groundbreaking works, and we’ve compiled a list of some of the most iconic albums that have significantly impacted the Nigerian music scene.

FACE2FACE - 2face Idibia

Face2Face was 2face Idibia’s solo debut album, released on May 15, 2004, after his split from the iconic group PLANTASHUN BOIZ. The album remains one of the most commercially successful albums in Nigeria, selling over 2 million copies and spreading throughout Western and Southern Africa before gaining significant traction in Europe. With solid hit records like “African Queen,” “Nfana Ibanga,” “Ole,” and many more, the widespread success of Face2Face defined 2face’s career as well as the Nigerian pop scene.

GAME OVER - P-Square

Armed with a desire to fully express their artistic vision, Nigerian duo Peter and Paul Okoye set out to develop a visual album in Game Over, with almost every song having a music video. The album sold over 10 million copies worldwide and was credited with redefining music videos in the African music industry, thanks to lead singles like “Do Me,” “Temptation Remix,” and “Roll It.”

MUSHIN TO MO’HITS - Wande Coal 

Regarded as one of the best pop albums of all time, Wande Coal redefined the game through his flawless combination of vibrant, eclectic vocals, street-infused lamba, and rhythms that had never been heard before. This debut album set the pace and template for the newer generation of Nigerian artists.

CURRICULUM VITAE - Mo'Hits

With a stacked lineup of stars like Dbanj, Wande Coal, Don Jazzy, and Dr Sid, this collaborative album received positive reviews from music critics. It was ranked seventh on Pulse Nigeria's list of the 15 Best Nigerian Pop Albums ever released between 1999 and 2016. The album boasts of songs like “Move Your Body,” “Close to You,” “Pere,” and “Booty Call.”

THE BEST OF THE CLASSIC YEARS - King Sunny Ade  

King Sunny Ade, regarded as a titan and one of the greatest pop artists of the 20th century, compiled material recorded between 1969 and 1974 for the Nigerian market in this album. In 2020, it was ranked number 465 in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

SUPERSTAR - Wizkid

Superstar is one of the most groundbreaking albums in the Nigerian music industry. In the album, Wizkid describes his early life, particularly the hardships he endured and how he triumphed to make a name for himself, often referencing God. The album's production was handled by Samklef, E-Kelly, Jay Sleek, Shizzi, DJ Klem, Masterkraft, Q-Beats, Banky W, and Vebee. It features collaborations with Wande Coal, D’Prince, Banky W, and Skales. Superstar was supported by the singles “Holla at Your Boy,” “Tease Me/Bad Guys,” “Don’t Dull,” “Love My Baby,” “Pakurumo,” and “Oluwa Lo Ni.” It is the second best-selling album on NotJustOK and was the most highly anticipated Nigerian album of 2011.

C.E.O - Da Grin

Da Grin is widely considered one of the pioneers of dialect rap in Nigeria, blending English with his native Yoruba. In 2009, he released his second studio album, C.E.O. (Chief Executive Omoita). In 2010, he was nominated for several Nigerian Entertainment Awards, including Best Album (C.E.O.), Hottest Single (“Pon Pon Pon”), Best Rap Act, and Best Collaboration with vocals. C.E.O. won Best Rap Album at the 2010 Hip Hop World Awards, and it produced the singles “Pon Pon Pon” and “Kondo.” Artists like Olamide, CDQ, Reminisce, Oladips, and YQ cite Da Grin as an influence.

AFRICAN GIANT - Burna Boy

Burna Boy’s fourth studio album, African Giant, received widespread critical acclaim for its cohesive sound and Burna’s commitment to maintaining his Afro-fusion style without diluting it. The album was featured in year-end lists by several publications, including Billboard, Complex, and Pitchfork. African Giant won Album of the Year at the 2019 All Africa Music Awards and was nominated for Best World Music Album at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards. The album is Afro-fusion at its most expansive, blending hip hop, R&B, dancehall, and other sounds with Nigerian music.