Lately, social media has played a big role in helping young Nigerian artists grow. But it’s important to note that being part of a record label can still greatly boost their music careers. Check out Daily Trust Saturday’s weekend magazine for a rundown of the best record labels in Nigeria.
Mavin Records:
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Mavin Records, often called Mavins, is a major Nigerian record label that has left a notable impact on the African music scene.
Established in 2012 by Michael Collins Ajereh, also known as Don Jazzy, the label has risen to prominence in Africa’s entertainment sector. Mavin Records has played a crucial role in nurturing and promoting gifted artists, producers, and songwriters.
Throughout its existence, it has housed several renowned talents like Tiwa Savage, Korede Bello, Reekado Banks, and Di’Ja. Guided by Don Jazzy’s foresight, Mavin Records has consistently produced top-charting tracks, blending diverse genres like Afrobeat, R&B, and hip-hop.
The label is recognized for its dedication to high-quality music production and its ability to adapt to shifting musical styles, ensuring its ongoing significance in the field.
Presently, Mavin Records represents artists such as Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, Ladipoe, Johnny Drille, Magixx, Boy Spyce, Bayanni, and Lifesize Teddy.
YBNL (Yahoo Boy No Laptop):
YBNL Records, an acronym for “Yahoo Boy No Laptop Records,” stands as a significant Nigerian record label acknowledged for its impact on the Nigerian music industry, especially within the hip-hop and Afrobeat genres.
Established in 2012 by Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide, YBNL has emerged as a major force in the Nigerian music scene.
YBNL Records has served as a starting point for numerous accomplished Nigerian artists, including Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, and Fireboy DML.
These musicians have gained fame and praise for their distinctive styles and successful chart-toppers. Olamide, both the label’s founder and a highly esteemed artist, has played a vital role in nurturing and endorsing talent within the label.
His dedication to fostering emerging artists and affording them a platform to showcase their abilities remains a cornerstone of YBNL’s triumph.
The label is recognized for its adaptability to shifting musical trends while maintaining its authentic essence.
YBNL artists frequently blend traditional Nigerian sounds, streetwise lyrics, and contemporary beats in their music, attracting a broad spectrum of audiences within Nigeria and beyond.
Recently, YBNL secured a promotional deal with Empire, amplifying the allure of signing with YBNL by offering a swifter route to international recognition. Presently, the musicians under YBNL are Asake, Fireboy, and Olamide himself.
Chocolate City:
Chocolate City, a Nigerian record label and entertainment firm, has made an enduring impact on the African music sector since its establishment in 2005 by lawyer and entrepreneur Audu Maikori, alongside Paul Okeugo and Yahaya Maikori.
The label stands as a significant promoter and developer of Nigerian musical talent, boasting an impressive lineup of highly skilled and successful artists such as MI Abaga, Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz, and Brymo, to name a few.
These musicians have garnered recognition both locally and internationally, contributing substantially to the elevation of Afrobeat and hip-hop on the global platform.
A standout accomplishment of Chocolate City is the emergence of MI Abaga, widely hailed as one of Africa’s premier lyricists, playing a crucial role in shaping the Nigerian hip-hop scene. Presently, Chocolate City houses notable talents like Young John, Blaqbonez, Tar1q, and Candy Bleakz.
Jonzing World records:
Jonzing World Records, a Nigerian record label, has been making waves in the music industry since its inception. D’Prince, a skilled musician and songwriter, founded it and it is affiliated with Mavin Records, another significant Nigerian label.
Interestingly, it was D’Prince, not Mavin Records, who discovered Rema. Shortly after, Jonzing World Records signed the dancehall artist Ruger, who has become one of Nigeria’s most successful young artists.
Their commitment to promoting new talent and pioneering music solidifies Jonzing World Records’ position as a driving force in the Nigerian music scene for emerging young artists.
DMW (Davido’s Music Worldwide);
Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) is a renowned Nigerian record label and entertainment entity that has played a significant role in shaping the Nigerian and Afrobeat music scenes.
Established in 2016 by David Adedeji Adeleke, widely known as Davido, DMW has become synonymous with achieving top positions on music charts and discovering emerging talents.
Guided by Davido’s vision, DMW has nurtured and showcased many exceptional artists like Mayorkun, Dremo, Peruzzi, and Yonda, to name a few. These artists have gained substantial acclaim and achievements, not only within Nigeria but also internationally.
DMW’s musical approach incorporates diverse genres such as Afrobeat, Afro-pop, hip-hop, and R&B, catering to a wide-ranging audience. The label’s strong focus on top-tier production, appealing visuals, and lively performances has significantly contributed to its immense popularity.