2024 was a year to remember, and at CTDA, we were vibing to the beats and grooving to the rhythms of some of the hottest afrobeats artists in the game. From viral moments to genre-defining albums, here are the top five artists that defined our year:
- Speed Darlington’s Unstoppable Rise
Love him or hate him, you couldn’t ignore Speed Darlington in 2024! With tracks like “Cash & Carry” and “Bomb”, his unique style and comedic lyrics had us laughing, dancing, and sharing clips online all year long. He didn’t just make music; he made memories—and lots of memes!
- Kendrick Lamar’s Masterful Album
Once again, Kendrick Lamar proved why he’s a legend. His album “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers” blended thought-provoking lyrics with cutting-edge production. Tracks like “N95” and “We Cry Together” left us reflecting on life, while “Count Me Out” gave us the perfect anthem to keep going.
- Firstklaz’s Unique Sound
Firstklaz captivated our ears with smooth vocals while bridging the gap between the west and north—his singles “Gen-Z Faaji” and “Gen-Z Arewa” are testaments to this—with his unique sound and style thereby propelling him to stardom. We’re officially on the Firstklaz bandwagon—are you?
- Tega Ethan: A Sweet Sensation
Known for his unique blend of poetry, soulful melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, Tega Ethan brought a sense of introspection to the Afrobeats scene this year. His soulful tracks such as “This Song Reminds Me of You” and “Water and Salt and Fire” got us shutting out the noise and slow dancing. He provided a refreshing change, making him a go-to for those seeking depth in their playlists.
- Portable’s Unfiltered Chaos
Never a dull moment with Portable! From his chart-topping hit “Zazoo Zeh” to his headline-making antics, Portable reminded us why he’s the chaotic genius of Nigerian street music. His energy is uncontainable, and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Join the Conversation! Who were your favorite artists of 2024 and why? Drop your highlights in the comments below!
