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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.

With a Beatport #1 record under his belt, Kwamzy is rapidly making his mark in the dance music scene, blending genres and honouring the roots of GQOM, Amapiano, and 3-Step while pushing them into exciting new territory with his innovative approach.

Carving his style from the influences of Vigro Deep’s Amapiano, Gqom, and 3Step pioneer Thakzin, Kwamzy’s latest single, ‘F Them UP,’ exemplifies his commitment to these genres while pushing their boundaries. A product of international collaboration between South African and Ghanaian artists, ‘F Them UP’ channels the raw, brash energy of Durban’s dance floors. Based in London but with roots inGhana, Kwamzy has captured the attention of the dance music scene with his daring, progressive sound. His work blends genre traditions while embracing post-genre experimentation, mastering a full-on sonic barrage within house music.

‘F Them UP’ preserves the core of Gqom’s classic basslines, fusing them with heavy percussion and electronic synths. Featuring Auckland-based DJ and producer NEVERR49, whose expertise in various club styles brings rhythmic fluidity, the track defies barriers and reimagines Amapiano and its diasporic rhythms in a dynamic, cross-continental collaboration.

Kwamzy is no newcomer to the scene. Celebrated as one of the UK’s leading figures in 3Step and Amapiano, he has gained significant recognition, with his remixes and original tracks catching the attention of top-tier DJs such as DBN Gogo, Vyno Miller, and Tiffany Calver. His production credits include Kabza De Small and ARTWORK’s “Soundtrack Steppin 2024,” as well as executive production on MÖRDA’s latest EP “CR4ZY”. Kwamzy’s work has even been featured on Black Coffee’s coveted Track ID playlist on Spotify 2024–solidifying his role as a key player in the global dance music community.

With his genre-defying approach and a relentless drive to innovate, Kwamzy has already secured his place as a force to be reckoned with in the dance world. Pre-save his upcoming single ‘Ghost,’ dropping on October 24th, and witness the next evolution of Kwamzy’s sonic journey.

For more information on Kwamzy and to stay updated on his latest projects, go to:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/kwxmzy/

X (Twitter): https://x.com/kwxmzy

Facebook: https://facebook.com/kwxmzy

Smade Group - home to SMADE Entertainment and SMADE Lounge welcomes The Africa Centre as its key charitable partner, as part of the three year strategic partnership.

SMADE remarked, “The Africa Centre and its communities have played a part in my 20-year journey as a cultural leader and entrepreneur in the UK. It has a special role in shaping the UK’s understanding and advancing the narrative of the global African. I am excited for this partnership between The Africa Centre and SMADE Group, as we continue to amplify Africa and unite Africans in the Diaspora.”

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the celebration of The Africa Centre’s 60th anniversary and SMADE Group’s pursuit of growth and innovation in Africa’s music, sports, and culture.The partnership between SMADE Group and The Africa Centre aims to reposition The Africa Centre as the custodian of African music heritage in the UK. For the past 60 years, the Centre has been a sanctuary for African artists, providing a platform for talents such as Remmy Ongala, Kanda Bongo Man, The Bhundu Boys, Jazzie B & Soul II Soul, Angelique Kidjo, Sonah Jobarteh, and Baaba Maal. This collaboration will also see SMADE Group, renowned for curating Afrobeats concerts and co-founding Afro Nation events, working with The Africa Centre to enhance awareness of its historical significance and current relevance. Additionally, the partnership underscores shared values in culture, intellectual development, community, education, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The Africa Centre, established in 1964, is a UK-based organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating African culture, heritage, and intellectual development. It has long served as a hub for artistic and cultural expression, providing a platform for African artists and intellectuals.

SMADE Group, the world’s leading events company specializing in contemporary African music, is renowned for its cultural impact through events like Afrobeats concerts and Afro Nation festivals. With a portfolio that includes SMADE Entertainment and SMADE Lounge, the group continues to shape the landscape of African music and culture.

Through this arrangement, The Africa Centre will become SMADE Group’s key charitable partner, delivering a strong social responsibility agenda. Together, they will host events and activities that honor The Africa Centre’s rich 60-year history while envisioning its future for the next six decades.

Upcoming Highlights:

• Mandela Day Commemoration in July

• 90th Birthday Celebration of Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in Literature, in July

• 100th Anniversary of Amilcar Cabral

• Special Archival and Art Exhibition

showcasing 60 years of The Africa Centre

• Royal Albert Hall Variety Performance in December

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.