Willfresh, Efe Oraka, Dami Oniru, Femi Leye and 3 other rising musicians you should know
Gone are the days were people claimed not to like Nigerian music. Thanks to the likes of Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, and Yemi Alade, more and more fans are being won over. But; while established acts are doing their best, there are several upcoming musicians putting in the work to make sure our music doesn’t sound boring. Below are some of them.1. Wilfresh
Like his name suggests, Wilfresh is a fresh entrant into the Nigerian music scene. Signed to Bamz Entertainment, the 24-year-old who is also a guitarist has worked with the likes of Tony Ross, Terry G, Dj Mekzy and others. He also lists Asa and Brymo amongst his musical influences.
2. Femi Leye
One wouldn’t really describe Femi Leye as an upcoming artiste in the real sense of the word. The list of musicians he has worked with is very extensive. He is currently a part of Adekunle’s 79th Element band. An amazing guitarist who also sings well, he recently released an album that many have described as wonderful.
3. Efe Oraka
Efe came into prominence when a video she released on her Twitter page went viral. The singer covered 21 songs by American artiste Jon Bellion in less than 2 minutes. She also did the same thing with Olamide’s songs recently. Word on the street is she will be releasing a new EP soon. In fact, the first single of the EP is ready.
4. Tomi Owo
A year ago, Tomi Owo released an EP titled Pieces and even though it garnered over 70,000 plays on Soundcloud, many didn’t pay attention. But when she started her Nostalgia sessions project, she has caught the attention of many. She recently covered Christy Essien Igbokwe’s Seun Rere and it sounds amazing.
5. Dami Oniru
Put Dami in a box and you’ll see her ‘bad side’. She once said in a recent interview that “I’m not trying to focus on one type of music because I feel like there is like so much more I can give and there are much more sounds that I can explore, I’m always open to trying out new stuff.” Her song Iyawo is particularly soothing.
6. Teni Entertainer
When an Instagram video Teni recorded went viral, people began paying attention. Her single Fargin sees her give tackle r*pe and sexual consent in a funny and ‘mature’ way. She is also the sister of popular singer Niniola so it’s safe to say music runs in the family.
7. Maka
Think a cross of Lauryn Hill and Yinka Davies and what you’ll probably get is soul singer Maka. Previous description aside, Maka doesn’t sound like any other soul singer out there. Originality is one word that comes to mind any of her songs is being played.