Nigerian female musicians have reached unprecedented heights, breaking barriers and dominating genres like Afropop and Afrobeats on both local and global stages. Over the years, the Nigerian music industry has grown into a global powerhouse, producing elite talents who shape the sound of music worldwide. In 2024, these women have continued to shatter stereotypes, set new standards of artistic excellence, and solidify their presence as leaders in the ever-evolving music scene
The Evolution of Nigerian Female Musicians: The Role of Women in Nigerian Music (Past to Present)
Women have traditionally been confined to supporting parts in Nigerian music, which has historically been dominated by men. However, trailblazers like Christy Essien-Igbokwe and Onyeka Onwenu cleared the path, demonstrating that women could be powerful forces in the music industry. Their songs are eternal classics because they are based on social conscience and cultural pride.
Trailblazing Nigerian Female Musicians Who Shaped the Industry
By defying social expectations and establishing spaces for women in genres including Afrobeat, highlife, and R&B, these trailblazers served as an inspiration to succeeding generations. The careers of today’s top women, who carry on the tradition with their innovative work, are influenced by them.
The Rise of Female Musicians in Nigeria: Trends and Influences in 2024
Factors Behind the Rise of Nigerian Female Artists
Nigerian female musicians’ success in 2024 is driven by a number of reasons. The playing field has been levelled by social media and streaming services like YouTube and Spotify, which offer direct access to audiences around the world. Fans are becoming more receptive to different voices, and record firms are investing more in female talent.
Top Genres Dominated by Female Musicians in Nigeria
Nigerian female singers are redefining genres such as Afrobeat and Afro-house. They create music that appeals both domestically and beyond by skilfully fusing classic sounds with modern influences.
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Top Nigerian Female Musicians in 2024 and Net Worth
- Temilade Openiyi (Tems) – $2 million
- Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe (Ayra Starr) – $1 million
- Tiwatope Savage (Tiwa Savage) – $10 million
- Yemilade Alade (Yemi Alade) – $5 million
- Simisola Bolatito Kosoko (Simi) – $2 million – $3 million
1. Tems
Tems.
Tems remains a trendsetter by fusing R&B and Afrobeats sounds with soulful vocals. Her 2024 first album, Born In The Wild, features a sound that is both inventive and intensely intimate. She continues to be a worldwide hit, receiving recognition for her collaborations with stars like Drake and Wizkid, including a Grammy and other nominations.
Tems, the first female Nigerian artist to win a Grammy in 2023, received her ninth nomination for Born in the Wild, her debut studio album, which peaked at number three and remained on Nigeria’s Official Top 100 Albums Chart for an astounding 21 weeks.
She bagged three nominations for the 2025 Grammy Awards: Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best African Music Performance. The “Try Me” crooner’s net worth is currently estimated at $2 million.
2. Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr.
The impact of Ayra Starr, one of the faces of the younger generation, cannot be denied. Her popular song Rush is still at the top of playlists, and Gen Z admirers look up to her because of her daring sense of style.
The song went as far as bagging a nomination for the previous 2024 Grammy Awards in the category of Best African Music Performance.
Ayra Starr has had rapid growth; her album The Year I Turned 21 broke streaming records and received critical acclaim. Ayra has solidified her status as a worldwide celebrity because of her infectious tracks like Rush and her partnerships with foreign musicians. As of 2024, Ayra Starr’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1 million.
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3. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage.
Tiwa Savage is still a titan in the music industry. She is admired for her strong voice and diverse range of artistic abilities, and songs like “Somebody’s Son” and “Stamina” keep her at the top of the charts.
Tiwa’s performances at big festivals and partnerships with international celebrities like Brandy solidify her status as a global phenomenon.
With projects like her soundtrack for her acting debut, Water and Garri, which includes strong collaborations with Asa and Ayra Starr, Tiwa Savage, a seasoned professional, keeps coming up with new ideas. She is a mentor and a legend in Nigerian music, and her influence transcends decades.
As of 2024, Tiwa Savage’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, making her one of the wealthiest female musicians in Africa.
4. Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade.
Yemi Alade continues to be a prominent figure in African music thanks to her dynamic stage presence and upbeat Afropop songs. Her ability to fuse modern styles with traditional African sounds retains her at the forefront of the industry.
Dubbed the “Mama Africa,” Yemi Alade’s impact is global. She has gained admirers all across the world over her upbeat performances and multilingual music.
She strengthened her position as a cultural ambassador in 2024 with the release of a highly appreciated album that honours African culture.
Yemi Alade recently bagged a nomination for the 2025 Grammy Awards for her song, Tomorrow in the category of Best African Music Performance.
The “Johnny” singer’s net worth is estimated at approximately $5 million as of 2024.
5. Simi
Simi.
Simi is a fan favourite because of her heavenly voice and distinctive storytelling style. Her intensely personal album, which addressed issues of identity, parenting, and love, was much praised when it was released this year.
The beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics of Simi continue to be a mainstay of Nigerian music. She keeps delving into themes of empowerment and love in 2024, including her own experiences in her songs. She stands out for her versatility as a singer, composer, and producer.
Nigerian female musicians are cultural icons, trailblazers, and storytellers in addition to being performers. Their journey is an inspiration to many, and they have made incalculable contributions to music and society. Let’s keep honouring and supporting these extraordinary ladies.
Simi’s net worth is estimated between $2 million – $3million as of 2024.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Nigerian Female Musicians
Who is the most popular Nigerian female musician in 2024?
Tiwa Savage and Tems lead the charts as the most prominent names in 2024.
Which Nigerian female artist has won the most awards?
Tems and Tiwa Savage hold numerous awards for their global influence and exceptional music.
How do Nigerian female musicians influence global music?
Through international collaborations, award-winning projects, and performances on global stages.
Are there any new artists to watch out for in 2024?
Rising stars like Lade, Guchi, and Bloody Civilian are making waves.
What genres are Nigerian female musicians most known for?
They dominate Afrobeat, Afro-house, R&B, and highlife genres.