Top 10: The Best Nigerian Artists of 2022

BNXN fka Buju’s incredible 2022 means he’s the only artist to split the big three of Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido in our 10 best Nigerian artists of 2022 list.

by Onyeka June 7, 2022, 1:19 pm 5.1k Views 2 Comments

Who are your 10 Best Nigerian artists of 2022?

We’ve come to the end of 2022; how have your favourite Nigerian artists fared?

There have been lots of activities here and there; new songs, albums, and stories dropping from both established and upcoming artists.

However, while some artists rarely lustred throughout the year, some have literally owned the entire year, mesmerizing fans with their skills and performances, and cementing their relevance to the culture.

According to those three criteria (skill, performance, and relevance), we have ranked the best Nigerian artists of 2022. We have also appended a list of 10 honourable mentions– artists who slightly miss out on the top 10.

Check out the star-studded list of our 10 best Nigerian artists of 2022 below.

#10 Ayra Starr – Mavin Records

When 2022 began, Shazam listed Ayra Starr as ‘one to watch.’ It’s safe to say all those who have kept eyes on her would have been delighted with what they’ve seen so far. Starr has kept her light shining and held down her spot as one of the fastest growing Nigerian musical talents.

#9 Adekunle Gold – Afro Urban Records

An album (Catch Me If You Can) this year, world tour, wicked wardrobe upgrade (epitomised by the picture above), and abundance of talent. You know there is currently no top 10 Nigerian artist list without AG Baby in it.

#8 Kizz Daniel – FlyBoy Inc/Empire

Kizz Daniel needs no introduction. Kizz released Barnbas EP in 2021 and rode the project’s wave deep into 2022. However, he’s produced the bewitching “Buga” alongside Tekno this year and, it will easily make many people’s lists for the Afrobeats song of the year.

#7 Davido – DMW/Sony Music Entertainment UK

What Davido lacks in talent, he makes up for, in style, elegance, and relevance to the culture. Some may argue he’s the most influential Nigerian artist, they have a case. Why? 30 billion gang dey the boy back.

#6 Rema – Jonzing World/Mavin Holdings

Rema made his album debut earlier this year; the 16-track Rave & Roses. The project, which featured an ensemble of international artists and different sounds, showcased Rema’s incredible versatility. Rave & Roses remains one of the most played Nigerian albums of the year.

#5 Tems – RCA

Ever since “Essence” became a global sensation, Tems’ name has not been off the headlines, mostly for good reasons. The last time a song did this well for a Nigerian artist was 2Face’s “African Queen.” But that’s not to say Tems hasn’t deserved her spot in this list for her work in 2022. She’s stayed impressively relevant since the turn of the year, making unmissable guest appearances on songs, during award shows, and influencing popular culture with her style and fashion game.

#4 Asake – YBNL

Asake won over hearts with his debut self-titled EP ‘Ololade Asake.’ So far this year, only few artists can boast of enjoying the same level of acclaim, notoriety, and success as the YBNL singer. He has earned himself a fine reputation as a hit maker and is one of the artists to keep an eye on for the future.

#3 BNXN fka Buju – T.Y.E./Empire

Buju has been a revelation since the turn of 2022. Hungover with the success of his sophomore EP Sorry I’m Late which released in late 2021, and with another EP in the works, not many artists can boast of putting in the kind of hard work and consistency that he has since the start of 2022.

#2 Wizkid — Starboy Entertainment/RCA

Wizkid holds down our number 2 spot for the best Nigerian artist of 2022. With some high-profile collaborations and numerous local and international honours, no one can argue that he’s not been one of the best this year while we still await his forthcoming fifth solo album.

#1 Burna Boy

Odogwu is our undisputed Best Nigerian Artist of 2022. From making stellar and superb albums to back-to-back hits, to mind-blowing live performances, everything Burna lays hands on just somehow manages to turn into gold. Midas touch of musical excellence.