What did you hear about Nigerian musicians from Benin City?
If there’s anything, it’s the fact that their music exudes a confidence that’s a true reflection of Benin City. The people of Benin are ambitious and proud of their heritage, rightfully celebrating their regal culture.
These musicians seamlessly integrate the essence of Benin City into their music, always staying true to their roots. Here are six Naija musicians who have put Benin City on the global map:
1. Shallipopi
Shallipopi, whose real name is Crown Uzama, was born and raised in Benin City, Nigeria. His music is deeply rooted in the local culture, with lyrics and slang that reflect everyday life in the city. His breakthrough single, “Elon Musk,” released in 2023, topped the Nigerian Apple Music chart and gained significant traction, showcasing the vibrant music scene of his hometown. His EPs, such as “Planet Pluto” (2023), and albums like “Presido La Pluto” (2023) and “Shakespopi” (2024), further emphasize his connection to Benin City, with tracks like “ASAP” reaching number one on the TurnTable Top 100. These connections have made him a proud ambassador, flying the city’s flag on global stages.
2. Majek Fashek
Majek Fashek, born Majekodunmi Fasheke in Benin City, is a legendary figure in Nigerian music, particularly known for his reggae and Afrobeat fusion. His 1988 album, “Prisoner of Conscience”, included the hit single “Send Down the Rain,” which became one of the most popular songs of the year and won him multiple PMAN awards, including “Song of the Year” and “Reggae Artist of the Year” in 1989. His music, influenced by Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, and Fela Kuti, mixed genres to create his unique style, “kpangolo,” and brought international attention to the city. His performances and recordings, such as appearances on “Late Night with David Letterman” in 1992, have cemented his legacy. Majek Fashek passed away on June 1, 2020, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene.
3. Qing Madi
Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, professionally known as Qing Madi, was born on July 1, 2006, and raised in Benin City. At just 16 years old, she began her music career, gaining widespread recognition with her 2022 single “See Finish,” which went viral on TikTok. Her follow-up, “Ole” (featuring Bnxn) in 2023, peaked at number one on the Uganda Top 100 Apple Music chart and number three in Nigeria, both from her debut EP, Qing Madi (2023). Her music blends afrobeats, pop, soul, and R&B, influenced by artists like Kendrick Lamar, and her rapid rise has showcased the city as a breeding ground for young, innovative talent. Her education at Negbenebor International School and early performances in church choirs further tie her to the city’s cultural fabric.
4. Goya Menor
Bright Goya, known as Goya Menor, hails from Benin City, where he was born on May 4, 1995. He studied sociology at Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State, and began his music career in 2011 as a singer, rapper, hype man, and MC. His breakout moment came with the 2021 remix of “Ameno,” featuring Nektunez, which reached number one in over 10 countries, including Nigeria, Jamaica, and South Africa. The song’s viral dance challenge on TikTok and Instagram, participated in by celebrities like Shaq O’Neal and Paul Pogba, and its later remix by David Guetta, have put Benin City in the global spotlight. His collaboration with Erigga on “Make I Yarn” in 2016 also marked an early milestone for him in his career.
5. Sarz
Osabuohien Osaretin, better known as Sarz, was born in Benin City on March 17, 1989. A prominent record producer and musician, he is recognized for his tag “Sarz on the beat” or “Really,” featured in his productions since his first full credit work for Lord of Ajasa’s “See Drama” in 2007. Sarz has produced hits for artists like Wizkid (“Samba, Beat of Life”), Burna Boy (“Shoknorris”), and Niniola, contributing to the global rise of Afrobeats. His work on Drake’s “One Dance” and being sampled by Beyoncé highlight his international impact. Despite his success, Sarz often mentions his Benin City roots in interviews, promoting the city’s musical legacy and role in modern Nigerian music. His music releases, such as the upcoming album “Protect Sarz At All Cost” set for September 20, 2024, further showcase his dual role as a producer and musician.
6. Rema
Divine Ikubor, known as Rema, was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City. He rose to fame with his 2019 single “Dumebi” after signing with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records. His music, which he calls “Afrorave,” blends Afrobeats with Arabian and Indian influences, gaining a dedicated fanbase known as Ravers. His 2022 album, “Rave & Roses”, featured collaborations with artists like 6lack and Chris Brown, and his hit “Calm Down” surpassed a billion streams on Spotify, reaching the Billboard Hot 100. Rema’s inclusion on former US President Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist and the FIFA 21 soundtrack further elevated the city’s profile as a hub for musical innovation, with his early life in the city shaping his creative journey.
7. Zerry DL
Divine Uzama, known professionally as Zerrydl or Zerry DL, is a fast-rising Nigerian singer and rapper from Benin City. Born on December 4, 2002, he gained mainstream attention in 2023 with his breakout single “Puff & Pass”, which earned him a spot on the TurnTable Top 100. Signed to Plutomania Records, founded by his older brother Shallipopi, Zerrydl released his debut EP “Danger Zee”, a unique blend of Afrobeats and street-hop.
8. Famous Pluto
As the youngest of the Uzama brothers from Benin City, Uzama Osahon, known professionally as Famous Pluto, is a rising Nigerian artist making waves under Shallipopi’s Plutomania movement. Following in the footsteps of his older brothers, Shallipopi and Zerry DL, Famous Pluto infuses his music with the essence of Benin culture, a signature evident in tracks like “Feel D Mood.”
