Nigerian music icons (left to right): Zaaki Azzay, Christy Essien-Igbokwe, Late, Onyeka Onwenu, Sonny Okosun and Segun Adewale at their back. Circa 2000s.

1. Zaaki Azzay:

Zaaki Azzay is a distinguished Nigerian musician acclaimed for his distinctive fusion of Afrobeat, Hip-hop, and contemporary Nigerian music. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with popular tracks such as “Shake Body.”

2. Late. Christy Essien-Igbokwe:

Recognized as the “Lady of Songs,” Christy Essien-Igbokwe was one of Nigeria’s most esteemed female musicians. She was an iconic singer, songwriter, and actress, renowned for her powerful vocal abilities and notable songs such as “Seun Rere.”

3. Late Onyeka Onwenu:

Onyeka Onwenu, often referred to as the “Elegant Stallion,” was a significant Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress. She achieved nationwide recognition in the 1980s with timeless hits such as “Endless Life” and “One Love.” Onwenu’s musical portfolio encompassed a blend of soul, highlife, and Afrobeat.

4. Late. Sonny Okosun:

Sonny Okosun was a legendary musician and bandleader known for his pioneering contributions to Afrobeat and highlife music.

His compositions frequently incorporated political and social commentary, and notable songs such as “Fire in Soweto” and “Which Way Nigeria” profoundly resonated with the struggles of the African populace.

5. Segun Adewale:

Segun Adewale is a renowned Nigerian singer and performer celebrated for his achievements within the highlife and Afrobeat genres. His popular tracks, including “Omo Naija,” solidified his status in the Nigerian music scene during the 1980s and 1990s.

These musicians were instrumental in shaping the Nigerian music landscape during the latter part of the 20th century, particularly throughout the 1980s and 1990s.