DJ Big N, a Nigerian DJ and producer, has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern Afrobeat and nightclub scene. As a member of Mavin Records, he holds a unique position within the African music industry, bridging the worlds of club culture and music production while contributing to the global spread of Afrobeat. This report takes a closer look at his personal and professional life, his relationship with industry heavyweights like Don Jazzy, his influence in Afrobeats, his achievements as a member of the Recording Academy, and his victory at the Red Bull Spin It Loud Nigeria competition.

DJ Big N’s relationship with Don Jazzy, the founder of Mavin Records, appears to be one of mutual respect and professional camaraderie. Don Jazzy, known for his mentorship and leadership within the Nigerian music scene, has played a significant role in DJ Big N’s rise within the music industry. Their collaboration at Mavin Records has not only elevated DJ Big N’s profile but also enabled him to contribute meaningfully to the label's musical direction.

Within Mavin, DJ Big N is regarded as a cornerstone in shaping the label’s musical identity, particularly in the realm of live performance and DJ sets. His ability to blend Afrobeat with other global sounds in his DJ mixes has helped to solidify Mavin Records’ place in the international music scene, showcasing Nigerian music to global audiences through diverse platforms and performances. DJ Big N’s experience and proficiency in navigating both the club and recording studio environments have made him an invaluable member of the team.

DJ Big N is widely recognized for his influence in the nightclub and dancehall scenes, particularly within the Afrobeat genre. As a nightclub DJ, he has managed to seamlessly weave traditional Afrobeat rhythms with more contemporary sounds, making his sets electrifying and widely celebrated. This unique style has earned him a loyal following among clubgoers and music fans across Nigeria and beyond.

His sets, which often feature a mix of local hits and international influences, have contributed significantly to the rise of Afrobeat globally. In a landscape where DJs are essential in shaping the direction of music trends, DJ Big N’s ability to adapt to and influence these trends while staying true to his Afrobeat roots has made him a force within the genre.

In 2024, DJ Big N became a member of the Recording Academy, an acknowledgment of his influence and contribution to the music industry. As a part of this prestigious body, DJ Big N now joins a group of elite professionals recognized for their artistic and technical achievements. His inclusion is significant, as it reflects his role in the global music scene and his commitment to raising the profile of African music, especially Afrobeat, on the international stage.

Being a member of the Recording Academy also provides DJ Big N with a platform to contribute more actively to the development and recognition of African music within international award circuits, such as the Grammys. This recognition solidifies his position as not just a DJ and producer, but also as an advocate for the growth of Afrobeats worldwide.

Another key milestone in DJ Big N’s career is his victory at the Red Bull Spin It Loud Nigeria competition. Red Bull’s Spin It Loud is an annual event that celebrates the art of DJing and mixing, attracting some of the best DJs across Africa. DJ Big N's win at this competition underscores his skill and expertise behind the decks, further solidifying his status in the Afrobeat scene.

The competition itself provides a platform for DJs to showcase their talent in front of both a live audience and industry professionals. For DJ Big N, winning this title not only affirmed his skills as a DJ but also brought him additional visibility within the industry. His ability to incorporate Afrobeat sounds while experimenting with other genres was a key element in his success at the event, demonstrating his versatility and creativity as an artist.

DJ Big N's contributions to both Mavin Records and the broader Afrobeats movement are undeniable. His close relationship with Don Jazzy and role within the record label has made him an integral figure in the rise of Nigerian music. Additionally, his achievements, such as being a member of the Recording Academy and winning Red Bull’s Spin It Loud competition, highlight his broad influence across multiple facets of the music industry. Through his dynamic career, DJ Big N continues to be a key player in the global growth of Afrobeats, particularly within the vibrant nightclub scene, and his continued success speaks to his talent and dedication to music.

Joseph Oche Udeh, known as Big Smart, continues to dominate the entertainment scene as Africa’s leading hype man. 

He remains at the forefront of major Afrobeat events and collaborations in the United States, bringing his unique energy and charisma to every show and performance.

 Big Smart has hosted a lot of events like Obi Cubana wife's birthday, Obi's House Tribe, Afrobeat District, Green 9ja Party, AFRICA Taste & Lounge, Afro Republik Fest, Nons Miraj's The Hunt Games Show Tour in USA, etc. both in Nigeria, the United States and other countries and the entertainer is the current manager of Goya Menor. Big Smart is also a singer, he released ghen ghen ft. Magnito almost other songs.

Gallery

Here are some recent photos of Big Smart in action:

Big Smart with Shaquille O'Neal

His link up with Shaquile O'Neal in New York was an iconic one, he gave the legend his flowers for making the 2021 hit song "Ameno" by Goya Menor viral, the remix had its big break after the Shaq made a video of him dancing to the song, 

Big Smart with Don Jazzy

Big Smart with French Montana 

Big Smart with Goya Menor

Big Smart with Young John

Big Smart with Hyacinth Alia (Executive Governor of Benue State)

Big Smart with Falz

Joseph Oche Udeh, aka Big Smart, continues to shine in the entertainment industry. His ongoing projects and recent achievements highlight his enduring influence and passion for his craft.

Follow Big Smart on

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Domae Magic, rising star of the Afrobeats scene, is making waves with his official debut single, ‘Philo.’ This mild-tempo masterpiece, produced by the legendary Northboi–known for hits like ‘Soco,’ ‘Joro,’ and ‘Gucci Snake’–is set to lead the release of Domae's highly anticipated 7-track EP titled “Antiso,” debuting this coming October.

 Stream Here

‘Philo’ showcases Domae Magic’s unique sound and storytelling prowess. The track is an engaging blend of modern and traditional Afrobeats, with a production that features delicate string and percussion placements reminiscent of highlife music, seamlessly blended with a contemporary song structure.

Domae Magic, whose real name is Dominic Ohene Ansah, is a Ghanaian singer, songwriter, and pharmacist by profession. 

He exemplifies the saying “you can walk and chew gum,” excelling in both his academic and musical pursuits. As a top student, he was featured as a bright kid, representing his high school in the prestigious National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), Ghana’s most popular educational program that promotes excellence in science and mathematics among senior high school students.

Domae Magic’s vocals are clean and captivating, delivered with a relaxed and confident vibe. His effortless delivery, even on higher notes, adds to the track’s charm.

‘Philo’ is more than just a song; it’s an experience that marks the beginning of a promising musical journey for Domae Magic. With Northboi’s expert production and Domae’s lyrical storytelling, ‘Philo’ is set to become a standout track in the Afrobeats genre.

Stream ‘Philo’ on all platforms in lossless audio quality and Dolby Atmos for an unparalleled listening experience. Don't miss out on this captivating debut. 

Get ready for the release of “Antiso” this October.

Follow Domae Magic on social media for the latest updates:

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MEGA-BOY, a rising star from Calabar, has released a cover of Burna Boy’s hit song City Boys, which he says reflects his own personality and aspirations. The young artist, who goes by the name MEGA-BOY, is determined to put his city on the map and make a name for himself in the music industry.

In an exclusive interview, MEGA-BOY stated “I’ve been anointed to do this, this is grace and no one can stop it,” he said confidently. He also expressed his admiration for Burna Boy, who he described as one of his role models and inspirations.

MEGA-BOY’s cover of City Boy is a catchy and energetic rendition of the original song, which celebrates the urban lifestyle and culture. MEGA-BOY said he wanted to show his own perspective and experience as a city boy from Calabar, a coastal city in southern Nigeria. He hopes his cover will attract more attention and recognition to his city and its rich musical heritage.

MEGA-BOY also shared his plans and goals for the future, saying that he is working on his own songs and projects that will showcase his talent and versatility. He said he is open to collaborations and partnerships with other artists and promoters who share his vision and passion. He also thanked his fans and supporters for their love and encouragement and urged them to keep following his journey and music.

MEGA-BOY is a promising and talented artist who is ready to take the Nigerian music scene by storm. His cover of City Boy is a testament to his skill and potential, and a tribute to his idol Burna Boy. You can listen to his cover on his TikTok below:

@megaboyofficial1 Just when you thought I was done, boom! I decided to give in another free verse. Rate my verse on City Boy from 1 - 10 😉🤩🔥 And tag @Burna Boy to see this. #Megaboy #Cityboy #Reels #Burnaboy ♬ original sound - MEGA-BOY

follow him on his social media platforms for more updates and news. Mega Boy is definitely one to watch out for in the near future.

In the past few years there has been an increase in the number of upcoming artiste in the nigerian music industry with the ease and profitability of digital marketing, artiste now find the music industry a rewarding venture. 

However, Social media has also been of tremendous relevance for publicity and fame. 

So without Further A do, Here are some Nigerian Music Waves to watch out for in the year 2022

1. BUJU

Daniel Benson was born 19th may 1997 and is better known as 'Buju or Bujutoyourears". The Nigerian Artiste buju is an Afro-fusion singer, Songwriter and Record Producer.

In 2019 he was Nominated for the "Rookie of the year" at the Headies 2019.

In 2020 he won the City People 'Entertainment Awards' for Revelation of the year.

He has however featured on Nigerian top charting single 'feeling' by Ladipoe and 'Bling' by blaqbonez. The 24years old Artiste has also caught the interest of some Prominent artiste like Burna Boy who signed him to his Record Label, Spaceship Records and Wizkid who featured him on the deluxe edition album alongside Canadian singer Justin Bieber.

2. Portable

The Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola popularly known as Portable is noted of his song titled 'Zazoozeh' featuring Olamide and Pocolee.

His early hits in the music industry has arouse the minds of the public.

However the Nigerian Artiste's resiliency towards hitting it big in the music industry is something to look out for.

3. Ayra Starr

Oyinkanaola Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr is a 19 years old Artiste signed to Mavins Records founded by recording artiste Don Jazzy.

The Nigerian singer has however attained approving remark for her songs such as Fashion Killer, Bloody Samaritan, Away and many others. 

Ayra Starr song 'Away' was said to have extended to number one on Nigerian iTunes and Apple music.

4. MOHBAD

Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba is a song writer, singer and rapper popularly known with the stage name Mohbad. He was born on the 8th of June 1996 in Lagos State Nigeria.

Mohbad as been known for his release of freestyles on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter but came to limelight after his feature with kizz Daniel's 'Fuck You' Challenge. 

Mohbad was signed by Naira Marley, under the Marlian Music record Label in 2019.

However he has featured some Artiste in the Music industry such as Davido, Naira Marley and Lilkesh.

5. Ruger

Micheal Adebayo also known by his stage name Ruger is a songwriter and a singer. He was born 1999, originally from Lagos and came into limelight after signing with Jonzing World Record in 2020.

He made his debut on the label's single 'One shirt' featuring D'Prince,Rema in 2021. He is best known for his hit single 'Bounce'.

In a short time he has gathered over 921k followers on his Instagram page. Ruger's influence in the music industry has 'sky rocketed' the interest of the public.

6. Jaywillz

The Nigerian song writer and singer Chinonso Emmanuel known with the stage name Jaywillz is known for his first hit single 'medicine'.

He is recognized of his consistency in bringing out good vibes and has set out to be an heavyweight to watch out for.

Jaywillz had a deal with the music record label Chaado Music World Wide in February 2020 which marked a leading move in his music career.

7. Oxlade

Oxlade is a Nigerian singer and song writer whose real name is Olaitan Abdularahman.

He rose to prominence with the release of the song 'away'. However his fame grew after his collaboration with Blaqbonez on 'Mamiwota'.

He also featured on Fireboy DML's hit single. He has collaborated with many prominent artiste like Reekado banks, DJ Tunez, Blaq bonez and Melvitto.

8. Lojay

Lekan Osifeso popularly known as 'lojay' is a Nigerian artiste, singer and songwriter whose fame grew after he featured Wizkid in his debut EP             ' LVNATTN'.

Lojay however started music at a very young age. In October 2019, he released Ariel. He has worked alongside many Nigerian artiste like Wizkid, Sarz, Hermez and many others. The Nigerian artiste still have a possibility of expanding his music career in 2022.

9. Fave Szn

Gods Favour Chidozie, professionally known as FaveSZN is a Nigerian fast rising afro-fusion singer and songwriter who is singed to 'Empawa African Record' founded by global superstar Mr Eazi.

In 2019, she released her first single titled ' M.O.M.M.S' meaning ( me or mask my sins) but the song had few recognition due to her limited fan base.

However, Fave did a freestyle on a beat made by 'Jinmi Abduls' a producer and artiste based in Lagos, which made her popular. 

Her first Ep project "anywhere but here' was released on November 2020. She became more popular when she released her single "Beautifully" which gave her lots of attention. 

She released notable songs like dead ass love, me or mask my sins, nobody but u, beautifully, baby riddim and me or mask my sins. The Nigerian singer has worked with Various Artistes including Olamide, Boj, Dimeji, skellz and many others.

10. Zinoleesky 

Oniyide Azeez best known on stage as 'zinoleesky' is a Nigerian born fast rising artiste. He is songwriter, a singer and a record producer.

He is a very focused music artiste who is highly optimistic about his music career. The talented artiste was signed in 2019 to the Marlian music label. He has however been of consistence with numerous hits like, Popo, Money, Vanesa, who knows, Shuga dadi and many others.

 

Since after the pandemic Or Also known as the post-pandemic era, we have see brand new female Artiste stepping into the spotlight and to just mention A few, here are the top 5 five female artistes to watch out for in the coming months or years :

Tems

Tems is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who was born in the city of Lagos on the 11th of July 1995.  She grew up singing in her church choir and rose to become one of the young famous singers in Nigeria. The success of her 2019’s Try Me saw her emerge into a big name in the music industry.

The singer’s journey into the music industry began when she was 20. She debuted her first EP, “Time Swap EP” in 2013. Her first recognized single, “Mr. Rebel”, a song that got more than 200,000 views on YouTube made her standout in the industry for her unique voice and personality.

Her latest feature with multiple award-winner Wizkid put her on the limelight, the release “Essence” is currently on the top 100 on Billboard. The Single also has a remix with Canadian superstar Justin Bieber. For her latest achievement Canadian superstar Drake also feature Tems on his album Certified Lover Boy [CLB].

[Also Check Out : Drake To Feature Tems In New Album - Certified Lover Boy]

Ayra Starr

Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe (born 14 June 2002), known professionally as Ayra Starr, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and model. Born in Cotonou, Ayra Starr began a fashion career at the age of 16 with Quove Model Management before deciding to pursue music. After covering several songs by popular artists on Instagram, she posted her first original song on her page in December 2019. This brought her to the attention of record executive Don Jazzy, and led to her signing to Mavin Records.

In early 2021, Ayra Starr achieved mainstream recognition with her eponymous debut extended play and its hit track “Away” which peaked at number four on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50 and at number 17 on US Billboard  Top Triller Global, paving the way for the release of her first full-length studio album, 19 & Dangerous in August 2021. Ayra Starr debuted on Pandora Predictions chart, and on 21 August 2021, she ranked number three on the Billboard Next Big Sound chart.

Amaarae

Ama Serwah Genfi (born July 4, 1994), known professionally as Amaarae, is a Ghanaian-American singer, songwriter, producer, and engineer known for her work around representation of gender and race in music. 

After collaborating with artists like AYLØ, Kay-Ara, Yaw P and putting out a few singles without an album, she released her debut EP, Passionfruit Summers in 2017. The album features the standout song, “Fluid”, which was complemented by a critically acclaimed music video. Amaarae has since Been opportune to have worked with Musical heavyweights like Stonebwoy, Kojey Radical, M3NSA, Santi, Blaqbonez, Buju, Odunsi, B4bonah, Wande Coal just to mention a few.

Guchi

Born on the 5th of November, Ugochi Onuoha better known as Guchi is a Nigerian fast-rising singer and songwriter who was born in the city of Kaduna, Kaduna State, Nigeria eventually growing up in Abuja. The Singer who is an origin of Imo State is the second child of a family of four children, she enrolled at the Edo State University, Ekpoma but didn’t finish.

She got admitted into the University of Lagos for a degree in Theatre and Media Arts. Guchi started her music career from her church’s choir, and her dad was a great music lover, she came into limelight with her song Addicted in 2019 and it has currently gotten more than 20M views on YouTube.

Ugoccie

Favour Ugochi Anosike (born March 16, 1997) known professionally as Ugoccie is a fast rising act whose impact is fast taking the Nigerian music industry space. Her sound which is mixed with the infusion of Igbo dialect in her music is second to none. She is formerly known as ITooTok.

She hit the spotlight when she debuted her hit single Do You Really Like Me. The song which also had a remix featuring Kolaboy happens to be a cover to the popular Nigerian-American singer, Rotimi‘s song, In My Bed
In the past, she had collaborated with Nigerian superstar, Duncan Mighty on the popular song, Disappoint Them.

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Writer : Mbuba Chiagozie Tochukwu (aGozie)

Tems To Feature On Drake's "Certified Lover Boy" Album

 The "Essence" crooner Is set To feature on the internationally acclaimed Rapper, Singer & Songwriter Drake's new studio album "Certified Lover Boy". This is after featuring on the song of the summer with Wizkid and the remix with Justin Bieber. 

Tems is surely an artiste that is making use of every Opportunity Been given to her by the likes Of Wizkid, Justin Bieber and Drake inclusive. She is surely to watch out for in the nearest future and we surely are ready to see her unleash herself to the world

Otsepa Collins (born 3rd February 2000) professionally know with his stage name Inkreece is a Nigerian singer, rapper and songwriter. He is currently signed to the label Afrique Boys Entatainment (ABE).

Inkreece is an origin of Ado local government area in Benue state, a north central state in Nigeria. He was born into the well respected family of the Otsepa's. He also had his primary and secondary education in Makurdi, Benue state and then furthered his tertiary education at the Benue state university (BSU) where he had a degree in mass communication.

While growing up as a kid, Inkreece listened to alot of music in all genres and this influenced him to start writing music at the age of 15 and this gave him the ability to sing and rap. It is also the reason his style of music cuts across different genres and form of music to make something new, this is simply known as "fusion" which he is pretty good at.

Inkreece recorded his first rap song back in high school but he couldn't put it out and give it the promotion it needed so it was only heard by his friends. Then he recorded another track, a trap music with his best friend from growing up Mahd Jay who is a producer, and again the jam wasn't given the right promotion it needed. But they never stopped, they kept their hopes high and kept on making good music with the help of a state of the art producer who goes by the name Bizzouch in a mini studio they created.

Inkreece was born into a christian home and immediately after his secondary education, Inkreece joined a gospel rap band in church where he did great. All of these wasn't enough for young Inkreece, so he'd always sneak out from home to attend music concerts and shows simply because his parents were against it, but this wasn't a problem for him because he had passion for music and he did everything be with what he loved which was music. Soon he had a shot to perform at a school's press day event, although it was his first performance live to a large crowd, Inkreece did well and from that moment he started getting support for alot of people and this gave him more reason to make music.

Inkreece was later discovered by Pavic and Veedo founders of Afrique Boys Entatainment (ABE). The label is committed to give him all he needs to rise to stardom. The idoma youngster has released some interesting songs like; Jewish Bag, Geng Up (feat. Exzify), Losse Guard etc. With no doubt, Inkreece is a handsome, hardworking and an easy going star with a focused mindset on winning Inkreece is currently single with no child and not in for any relationship as he wishes to focus on his career. He residents in an apartment provided by his label Afrique Boys Entatainment in Lagos, Nigeria.

Follow Inkreece on his various social media platforms :

Twitter : https://twitter.com/inkreece1

Instagram : https://instagram.com/inkreecegram

Subscribe to his Youtube : https://youtube.com/channel/UCYY1OrjpYjs3dI8kl5FOAeA

Article Credit : Paul Micheal (x_onuche)

                              Otsepa Collins (Inkreece)

Editor : Mbuba Chiagozie (aGozie)