Many of your favorite international stars might have deeper connections to Nigeria than you realize. Whether in music, film, or fashion, these global artists have proudly carried their Nigerian heritage into their careers, leaving a mark on the world stage. Here’s a list of ten influential artists with Nigerian roots:
Santan Dave
- Background: David Orobosa Omoregie, famously known as Santan Dave, is a British rapper, singer, actor, and producer with strong ties to Nigeria. His parents are from Edo State.
- Career Highlight: Known for his lyrical depth, Dave’s hit song “Location,” featuring Burna Boy, has captivated audiences worldwide.
Wale
- Background: Olubowale Victor Akintimehin, known simply as Wale, is an American rapper with Nigerian heritage.
- Career Highlight: Wale often embraces his Nigerian roots in his music, with his collaboration with Wizkid on “My Love” standing out as a fan favourite.
Tion Wayne
- Background: Dennis Junior Odunwo, or Tion Wayne, is a prominent English rapper and songwriter of Nigerian descent, with both parents hailing from Nigeria.
- Career Highlight: Tion Wayne has connected with his Nigerian roots, collaborating with Davido on the hit track “Who’s True.”
Seal
- Background: Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel, known professionally as Seal, is a celebrated British singer with a Nigerian mother and an Afro-Brazilian father.
- Career Highlight: Seal’s global success includes multiple Grammy Awards and over 20 million albums sold.
Skepta
- Background: Joseph Junior Adenuga, better known as Skepta, is a British grime MC and producer with Nigerian origins, specifically from Ogun State.
- Career Highlight: Skepta’s collaboration with Wizkid on “Bad Energy” is a nod to his Nigerian roots. He was also honoured with a chieftaincy title in his hometown.
Jidenna
- Background: Jidenna Theodore Mobisson, known as Jidenna, is a Nigerian-American artist born to a Nigerian father and a White American mother.
- Career Highlight: Jidenna’s debut single “Classic Man” was a massive success, earning double platinum status.
Tyler The Creator
- Background: Tyler Gregory Okonma, widely known as Tyler the Creator, is an influential American rapper and producer with a Nigerian father and an American mother.
- Career Highlight: Tyler has made a lasting impact on both the music and fashion industries.
Chamillionaire
- Background: Hakeem Seriki, better known as Chamillionaire, is an American rapper with a Yoruba Nigerian father and an African-American mother.
- Career Highlight: Chamillionaire has transitioned from music to entrepreneurship, focusing on venture capitalism.
- Shaboozey
- Background: Collins Obinna Chibueze, known as Shaboozey, is a Nigerian-American artist with both parents being Nigerian.
- Career Highlight: Shaboozey gained significant recognition after collaborating with Beyoncé on her 2024 album Cowboy Carter.
Rotimi
- Background: Olurotimi Akinosho, known as Rotimi, is a Nigerian-American actor and singer.
- Career Highlight: Rotimi is best known for his role in Power and his hit single “Love Riddim.”
These artists, rooted in Nigerian culture, continue to make waves across the globe, showcasing the diverse talent that originates from Nigeria.
