FULL LIST: 10 new school artistes to watch out for in 2026

Nigeria’s music industry continues to thrive on the strength of a new generation of talents redefining Afrobeats and contemporary African sounds.

From breakout hitmakers to underground sensations gaining mainstream attention, these artistes have shown consistency, originality and momentum that could shape the sound of 2026 and beyond.

Here are new school artistes to watch out for in 2026:

1. Fola

Nigerian artiste FOLA has achieved significant milestones in his growing music career, earning recognition for his unique sound and consistency. He has released multiple well-received songs that have gained strong listener engagement across digital streaming platforms and social media.

FOLA’s music has attracted a steadily expanding fanbase and industry attention, positioning him as one of the promising emerging talents in the Nigerian music scene. His ability to connect with audiences through relatable lyrics and modern Afrobeats production continues to drive his rise and solidify his presence in the industry

2. Shoday

Nigerian artiste Shoday has gained widespread recognition following the success of his hit single “Hey Jago,” which has enjoyed strong traction across digital streaming platforms and social media. The record significantly boosted his visibility, earning him a rapidly growing fanbase and positioning him as a standout emerging talent in the Afrobeats scene.

The success of “Hey Jago” marks a key achievement in Shoday’s career, highlighting his consistency, catchy sound, and ability to connect with listeners nationwide.

3. Morravey

Moravey, a signed artiste under Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), has recorded notable achievements in her fast-rising music career. She gained major recognition following her introduction to the label, with her debut releases receiving strong reception from fans and industry stakeholders alike.

Moravey’s music has garnered impressive streaming numbers and widespread attention across digital platforms, establishing her as one of the standout new voices in Afrobeats. Her growth under DMW continues to position her as a promising talent with strong momentum in the Nigerian music scene.

4. Ayomaf

Nigerian artiste Ayomaf has made steady strides in his music career, earning recognition for his distinctive sound and consistency. His releases have gained positive reception across digital streaming platforms, contributing to a growing and loyal fanbase.

Advertisement

Ayomaf’s ability to blend relatable themes with contemporary Afrobeats production has positioned him as a promising emerging talent within the Nigerian music scene, attracting increasing attention from listeners and industry stakeholders

5. SKY JAGA

Rising music sensation Sky Jaga is making 2026 his year with the release of his standout EP JAGAJANTISII and its latest single, “Jagajantis.” Already celebrated by a dedicated underground fan base, Sky Jaga is quickly turning heads with his signature blend of infectious melodies, raw lyricism, and genre-defying sound.

“Jagajantis” showcases why Sky Jaga is more than just an emerging artist—he’s a force to be reckoned with. His music effortlessly bridges the underground and mainstream, earning him recognition from fans and critics alike.

6. GeedyNGB

GeedyNGB is quickly rising as one of the most exciting voices from Nigeria’s new school wave. In 2025, he reached key career milestones that solidified his growing influence, marked by sharper artistry, increased visibility, and a sound that connects deeply with today’s youth culture.

One of his standout records, “I No Dey Send Again,” produced by heavyweight hitmaker Masterkraft, showcases his confidence, versatility, and street-driven appeal. The track signals GeedyNGB’s readiness for the next level and reinforces his position as an artist with both momentum and longevity.

7. Kaartoon.k

He is one of the artistes to look out for in 2026, representing the new wave of Afrobeats talents based abroad. His hit single “Houdini” has gained strong acceptance in Cyprus, the UK, Ghana, and Nigeria, highlighting his growing international reach. Known for quality and creativity, Kaartoon.k also delivered a visually impressive official video for “Jowo,” reinforcing his position as a future face of Afrobeats.

8. Og Abbah

Og abbah has become one of the hottest names in the African music scene with his latest smash hit “Wayo Allah Na”. Dominating airwaves across the continent, the track has quickly become one of the biggest songs in Nigeria and Africa, resonating with audiences far and wide.

With its infectious beats and captivating lyrics, “Wayo Allah Na” has propelled Og Abbah into the limelight, making him an artiste to watch. As the track continues to climb the charts, Og Abbah’s distinct sound is positioning him as one of the future stars of Afrobeat, showcasing the genre’s international potential.

9. Mavo

A leading voice of the new school Afrobeats movement, Mavo is one of the most exciting artists to watch in 2026. He has scored major collaborations with Afrobeat legends including Davido, Wizkid, Ayra Starr, CKay, DJ Tunez, and DJ Maphorisa. His hit “Shakabulizzy (Remix)” featuring Davido cracked the Spotify Nigeria Top 10, while multiple songs simultaneously topped the Apple Music Nigeria charts. Named Billboard African Rookie of the Month, Mavo’s rapid rise and street-influenced sound position him as a future global force in Afrobeats.

10. KVNBLAQ

Advertisement

the fast-rising musical sensation ready to take over the global stage. Born Ogbuji Ugochukwu Kevin, this dynamic artiste hails from the vibrant city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where his sound first began to take root.KVNBLAQ is not just another name in the game; he’s a movement. With a unique blend of raw energy, lyrical depth, and cultural influence, his music speaks directly to the streets and the soul. His breakout underground hit, “Opueh,” is already making waves and turning heads, earning him a loyal fanbase and the attention of major industry players.