Spotify, the online streaming platform, has recognized Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record executive Olamide Adedeji, widely known as “Olamide,” as the ‘most influential street pop artist of his generation.
Spotify’s West Africa Editor, Benewaah Boateng, revealed this information in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.
Boateng highlighted that the recent surge of the sub-genre “Street Pop” in Nigeria has been both noteworthy and exciting to witness, gradually permeating mainstream music.
“Olamide is the most influential street pop artiste of his generation, 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 such as “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.
“The influence of Street Pop on the Nigerian music landscape in 2023 is clearly and undeniably significant.
Boateng affirmed that street pop, stemming from a blend of Afrobeats, Highlife, Hip-hop, Fuji, Apala, indigenous sounds, and modern elements, features a compelling rhythm, lively fast-paced beats, and lyrics that resonate with the daily experiences of Nigerians confronting the challenges of the streets.
She clarified that the distinctive characteristic of Street Pop as a music genre lies in its deep connection to the harsh realities of everyday life in Nigeria. Additionally, she noted that Olamide secured the ninth position in the ranking of the top 10 artists in Nigeria.
“His most recent project, “Unruly” garnered widespread acclaim from fans who describe it as a brilliant body of work.
“One particular track that has resonated exceptionally well with audiences is “Gaza”, which has received significant admiration for its appeal and musical craftsmanship.
“Also, Seyi Vibez has emerged as an undeniable force in the Nigerian street pop scene, particularly in 2023, after finding mainstream success in 2022.
“He has ingrained himself in the hearts of Gen-Zs and millennials, with phrases like “na ham, na ham” echoing from his popular song, “Chance.”
“His success in 2023 is evident, from selling out his 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.
“Additionally, earning a spot among the top five most streamed artists in Nigeria further underscores Seyi Vibez’s ability to transcend Street Pop and strike a chord with all music lovers,” she said.
Boateng observed that Zinoleesky has significantly influenced and reshaped the street pop genre with his adept melodies and compelling storytelling, earning him a spot among the top 15 most streamed artists in Nigeria.
She expressed that as the genre continues to progress and street pop artists venture into new creative territories, it becomes apparent that street pop is positioned for substantial growth in the upcoming years.
She added that street pop has the potential to emerge as the next global phenomenon, similar to the impact of Afrobeats.