Roli Thompson: Fast-Rising Itsekiri Singer Redefining Nigerian Music in 2025

In the Nigerian music industry, a new voice and genre come up every few years, sometimes every other month. Some of these voices are brave enough to stand out and authentic enough to connect with fans on a deeper level instantly. Roli Thompson, also known as Roli T, is one such unique voice that emerged in 2025. Roli’s genre of song set her apart from the rest; her rich, comforting, and smooth voice and sound captivated and quickly earned a rabid fan base. Roli Thomsom isn’t simply another new person in the business; she’s a performer, a storyteller, and a cultural ambassador whose art shows off her rich Itsekiri ethnic heritage.

Acolytes of Afrobeats and modern Nigerian music are always on the lookout for the next big star to watch. Roli Thompson is already one of the fastest-rising female singers in Nigeria. Her first single, “Olikperebu,” has garnered a lot of attention, and her background in theatre and performance arts has enhanced her stage presence, which is a nice blend of old and new.

This article talks about Roli Thompson’s life story, how she got into the music business, some of the best parts of her career, and why you should add her songs to your playlist.

 

Roli Thompson Biography

Roli Thompson hails from Delta State, Nigeria, and is a proud Itsekiri woman from Ukpeburu-Jakpa. From her early years, she was surrounded and influenced by her people’s traditional rhythms, language, and traditions. These cultural influences shaped the way she now expresses herself as an artist. 

Unlike many artists who stumble into the industry by chance, Roli’s path was more intentional. She explored her artistic abilities through multiple avenues such as theatre, live performances, and storytelling. Her work in stage productions such as Olikperebu showed that her artistry extended beyond music. These performances shaped her ability to hold an audience, an ability that has since carried over to her music career.

One of the most critical moments in Roli Thompson’s biography was her performance of her debut single, “Omiwere,” at the Palace of the Olu of Warri. That performance before cultural royalty was not just music, but it was a way of showing respect to her culture and her people while starting her journey as a professional artist.

 

Roli Thompson’s Music Career

The Nigerian music industry is vibrant, yet highly competitive. Breaking into it requires not only talent but also vision and resilience. Roli Thompson’s music career is proof of how these elements combine.

Her transition from theatre into music was smooth because she understood performance at its core. Whether it’s acting in plays or singing before a live audience, Roli knows how to connect. This ability provides her with an edge over many contemporaries.

Her debut single, “Omiwere,” released in 2023, introduced listeners to her melodic sound, one rooted in the Itsekiri language and storytelling. The song isn’t just music, but it is a mix of tradition and modern rhythm. She followed this up with “Urowoli,” another track that showcased her versatility and vocal strength.

Roli has also received recognition. She was nominated for Female Artist of the Year at the Dera Awards in Warri, a big step for someone just starting in the music industry. This shows that both fans and the industry are paying attention to her talent. 

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Roli Thompson Songs You Need to Hear

Every artist defines their identity through their discography, and Roli Thompson is no different. Even though she is still new, Roli Thompson’s songs already stand out because they feel real and powerful. 

• • “Omiwere” – A blend of cultural authenticity and contemporary sound. It is both a tribute to her heritage and a bold introduction to the industry.

• • “Urowoli” – A follow-up single that showcases her voice and artistry beyond just cultural fusion. It’s the kind of track that cements her as more than a one-hit wonder.

What makes Roli Thompson’s songs special is that they don’t feel manufactured for quick fame. They are carefully crafted, authentic, and carry her personal stamp. Fans who crave meaning in music will find her songs refreshing. Her songs are deeply rooted in culture. 

 

Why Roli Thompson Stands Out Among Fast-Rising Female Artists in Nigeria

Nigeria has no shortage of talented female musicians, from Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade to Tems and Ayra Starr. But every generation brings new voices, and in 2025, Roli Thompson is positioning herself in that conversation.

Here’s why she stands out:

1. Authenticity – Many upcoming artists chase trends, but Roli leans into her roots. Her use of the Itsekiri language and cultural elements makes her music unique.
2. Stage Presence – Thanks to her theatre background, her live performances are powerful and memorable.
3. Recognition – Industry nominations show she’s already being noticed beyond her local fan base.
4. Cultural Pride – Roli’s music isn’t just about beats and lyrics; it’s about preserving and celebrating identity.
5. Potential for Global Reach – In an age where global listeners are eager for authentic African sounds, her style has international appeal.

 

Conclusion: Upcoming Musicians in Nigeria

Roli Thompson is not just another name on the list of upcoming musicians in Nigeria. She is a voice that carries heritage, performance and authenticity in the Nigerian music space. Her biography is inspiring, her music career is promising, and her songs are captivating.

Hence, fans can expect more releases, live shows and collaborations that extend her reach. Her ability to merge cultural identity with contemporary music gives her an edge not just in Nigeria but on the global stage. So, if you are searching for the next prominent artist to follow, Roli Thompson deserves your attention. Listen to her songs, share her music, and become part of her journey. You’ll be glad you listened early when her name becomes synonymous with legends years from now.

 

FAQs About Roli Thompson

1: Who is Roli Thompson?

Roli Thompson is an Itsekiri singer, storyteller and performer from Delta State, Nigeria. She is known for her unique sound and cultural authenticity, making her one of the fastest-rising female artists in Nigeria.

2: What are some Roli Thompson songs?

Her debut single, “Omiwere”, and her follow-up track “Urowoli” are standout songs that showcase her artistry.

3: Where can I listen to Roli Thompson’s music?

Her songs are available on major streaming platforms such as Apple Music, Shazam, and YouTube.