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In the Nigerian music landscape, where the songs of many artistes often share similar elements, a select few manage to carve out their own unique sounds. These ‘unusual’ artistes stand apart from mainstream Afrobeats, captivating audiences with their distinctive styles. OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL takes a look at some of them
Odumodu Blvck
Rapper and singer, Tochukwu Ojogwu, aka Odumodu Blvck is one artiste that has won many fans with his unique blend of rap music. His lyrics often feature a mix of slangs that create a unique vernacular, giving his music an edgy vibe. On hearing his music, he cuts the picture of a gangster because of his choice of words. Besides, he is a member of the hip-hop collective, Anti World Gangstars.
Aside from his style of music, the artiste has a unique voice that stands out, coupled with his signature red, black and white cap.
Terry Apala
Terry Ejeh, aka Terry Apala, is credited with getting many young people to fall in love with apala music by adding a touch of modernity to it to form his own style which he describes as ‘Apala New Skool’.
Terry’s music stands out because of the way he blends afrobeats and trap with apala, which is a traditional Yoruba music.
His music seamlessly blends English and Yoruba lyrics while showcasing intricate drum patterns, especially with the use of the talking drum.
In a previous interview, Terry expressed pride in making apala music appealing to younger audiences, emphasising the universal nature of music as a cultural bridge. He had said, “As a matter of fact, many young people have told me that it is because of me they listen to, and like apala music. I have always been of the firm belief that music is universal, and it does not have any borders or barriers. I believe that music is one of the best ways that we can spread our culture across the world.”
Though an Isoko native from Delta State, he has noted that his upbringing in Mushin, Lagos, deeply influenced his embrace of apala music.
Shallipopi
Benin, Edo State-born artiste, Crown Uzama, popularly known as Shallipopi, burst onto the scene with his hit single titled, ‘Elon Musk’, in 2023.
Often described as a ‘talking singer’, Shallipopi deviates from the traditional afrobeats formula by delivering his lyrics in a conversational tone over infectious beats.
Initially met with skepticism and criticism from people who felt he was not skilled enough, he has been able to win over some fans with his sound. His ability to infuse playful elements like nursery rhymes into his music makes him stand him out. His songs include ‘Cast’, ‘Evil Receive’, ‘New Cat’ and ‘Oscroh’, among others.
Cavemen
Music duo, Cavemen, made up of siblings— Kingsley Okorie (a bassist) and Benjamin Orji (a drummer)— garnered attention for their distinctive fusion of highlife and contemporary sounds.
Hailing from Enugu State, they have contributed to the revitalisation of highlife music, blending it with modern instrumentation and relatable lyrics that speak to the everyday experiences of their listeners.
They both have unique voices, which make their music soothing to their fans. Their performances often showcase a seamless integration of live instrumentation like udu (a traditional Igbo drum) and Oja (traditional Igbo flute). They also incorporate rich harmonies and storytelling that resonate with lovers of Nigerian music. Their unique soul fusion has carved out a distinct niche that appeals not only to highlife enthusiasts but also to younger audiences seeking authenticity in their sounds.
Darkoo
Though her sound is similar to regular afrobeats music, Oluwafisayo Isa, aka Darkoo, comes off as an unconventional artiste because of her unique deep voice.
Initially starting her career as a drill rapper, she successfully integrated afrobeats into her repertoire, gaining prominence with her hit single titled, ‘Gangsta’ in 2019. Since then, she has maintained her momentum and was nominated for ‘Best Diaspora Afrobeats Artiste of the Year’ at The Headies Awards in 2022.
