Spotify, the online streaming platform, has designated Olamide Adedeji, a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record executive widely known as “Olamide,” as the ‘most influential street pop artist of his generation.’ This announcement came from Benewaah Boateng, Spotify’s editor for West Africa, in a statement released on Thursday in Lagos.
Boateng expressed excitement about the remarkable and thrilling rise of the sub-genre “Street Pop” in Nigeria, noting its gradual integration into mainstream music. She highlighted Olamide’s pivotal role in elevating Street Pop to mainstream recognition as a distinct music genre, praising him for consistently promoting it since the debut of his hit single, “Eni Duro.” Olamide has been credited for popularizing dance styles like “Shakiti Bobo” and street jargon such as “Baddo Sneh” and “Pepper Dem.”
Through his record label YBNL, Olamide has played a crucial role in discovering and nurturing Nigeria’s brightest street pop talents. According to Boateng, the influence of Street Pop on the Nigerian music landscape in 2023 is undeniably significant, and she anticipates further growth in the genre’s mainstream presence.
Street pop, originating from a fusion of Afrobeats, Highlife, Hip-hop, Fuji, Apala, indigenous sounds, and contemporary elements, is characterized by an engaging rhythm, pulsating fast-paced beats, and lyrics reflecting the everyday lives of Nigerians navigating street challenges. Boateng emphasized Street Pop’s profound connection to the harsh realities of everyday life in Nigeria.
Although Olamide occupies the ninth spot in the top 10 artists in Nigeria, his most recent project, “Unruly,” received widespread acclaim, with the track “Gaza” standing out for its appeal and musical craftsmanship.
Boateng also highlighted Seyi Vibez’s emergence as a force in the Nigerian street pop scene in 2023, following mainstream success in 2022. Seyi Vibez, known for his popular song “Chance” and phrases like “na ham, na ham,” sold out his concert at the O2 Indigo Hall in the UK and secured features on hit songs like “Gwagwalada,” the second most streamed song in Nigeria on Spotify.
Additionally, Zinoleesky was recognized for reshaping and contributing significantly to the street pop genre through skillful melodies and compelling storytelling, earning him a spot among Nigeria’s top 15 most streamed artists.
Boateng concluded by noting that as the street pop genre evolves and artists explore new creative frontiers, it is evident that street pop is poised for exponential growth in the coming years.
