Port Harcourt has long been a talent hub for creatives in Nigeria’s music scene. From Omah Lay to Duncan Mighty, these 11 musicians have showcased their city’s unique flavor and carried its flag high through their music.
We know artists representing the eastern, western, and possibly even the northern regions of Nigeria! But what about artists representing the southern region, particularly from Port Harcourt?
For decades, Port Harcourt, affectionately called PH for short, has nestled some of the greatest acts in the Nigerian music scene and has slowly become the talent hub for creatives, pushing the focus from Lagos and Abuja.
One of the most beautiful things about PH artists is how they are quick to insert their city into their music—from their peculiar way of singing to directly mentioning cities in Port Harcourt, these artists sure know how to put their city on the map, carrying the flag alongside their music.
Here are 11 Nigerian music stars who put the city of Port Harcourt on the map—some you may know, others might come as a shock!
1. Omah Lay
Born Omah Didia, Omah Lay hails from Ikwerre in Rivers State, Port Harcourt City. He frequently pays homage to his roots through his music, as heard in Recognize, where he proudly declares, “all the way from Port Harcourt waterside.”
2. Duncan Mighty
Born and raised in Pitakwa, Duncan Wene Mighty Okechukwu hails from Obio-Akpor, with much of his hit discography paying homage to his roots. From Port Harcourt Boy to Dance For Me, he infuses his music with vibrant highlife rhythms and proudly incorporates his native Ikwerre language.
3. Ajebo Hustlers
Isaiah Precious and George Dnadeson, known by their stage names Piego and Knowledge, are a Nigerian duo who rose to fame with Barawo, a powerful track highlighting the flaws in Nigeria’s system. Hailing from Port Harcourt, they began their musical journey in the city before making a national impact.
4. Burna Boy
Born Damini Ebunolowo Ogulu, Burna Boy hails from Ahoada in Rivers State. While he doesn’t frequently reference his Port Harcourt roots in his music, his global success has undeniably played a major role in putting the city on the map.
5. Timaya
Timaya dedicated a large part of his early career to addressing the societal issues of where he comes from, Rivers State. His music spoke against oil-related issues and politically-sponsored conflict, which rocked the southern region.
6. Ric Hassani
Ric Hassani, born Ikechukwu Eric Ahiazu, is a popping Port Harcourt star whose sound takes a different detour from his typical peers from the city, as he is a fusion of genres, largely leaning into R&B.
7. Kaestyle
Kaestyle is yet another artist who infuses his sound with influences from his roots. Drawing inspiration from his city, he seamlessly blends his style while embracing his versatility, leaning heavily into R&B.
8. King Perryy
Though originally from Enugu, Anthony Offiah was born and raised in Port Harcourt, where he began his career under the mentorship of PH legend Timaya. Known as King Perryy, he is a talented Afro-dancehall artist with a dynamic catalog that includes hits like Murda featuring Teni and YKTFV.
9. Mercy Chinwo
Mercy Chinwo is one of the leading female gospel artists proudly representing Port Harcourt on the global stage. With powerful songs like Excess Love and You Do This One, she continues to make an impact with her inspiring music.
10. Dandizzy
Daniel Tuotamuno, professionally known as Dandizzy, is a 28-year-old rapper who has built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s top freestyle artists, making his mark in the country’s hip-hop scene. Dandizzy recently brought city legend Duncan Mighty into the new-generation drill sound, seamlessly blending it with the veteran’s signature highlife style to create a track that pays tribute to their city.
11. Mr Eazi
At one point early in his career, many believed Mr Eazi was from Ghana, but while his full name is Oluwatosin Ajibade, did you know he was actually born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State? The artist has clarified this in interviews, explaining that he grew up between Port Harcourt and Lagos before later moving to Kumasi, Ghana. Known for hits like Skin Tight and Leg Over, Mr Eazi has remained a fan favorite in the Afrobeats scene.
