In 2025, Afrobeats has transcended its identity as “just a genre.” It is now a global cultural export—a rhythm-driven language understood in dance halls in London, nightclubs in New York, and festivals in Paris. Born from the streets of Lagos and sharpened by the diaspora, it continues to reinvent itself through fearless new voices.
Legends like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido laid the foundation. But this year, a new class of Nigerian stars is not only walking that path—they are redrawing the map entirely. They bring a mix of viral hits, genre-bending sounds, grassroots energy, and bold storytelling that resonates with Gen Z worldwide.
Here are the emerging artists shaping Afrobeats in 2025—each one bringing a fresh flavor, distinct energy, and global ambition.
1. FOLA
Signed under Bella Shmurda’s Dangbana Republik, FOLA is quickly becoming the sound of modern Afropop romance. His deep, near-baritone vocals glide over infectious beats, making tracks like “Ginger Me” (with Bella Shmurda) and the “Alone” remix (with BNXN) fan favorites, with the duo dropping another joint in June titled “very soon“.
2025 has been his breakout year, with “Alone” exploding on TikTok and crossing into international playlists. What makes FOLA stand out is his ability to balance danceable energy with emotional honesty—a skill that wins both partygoers and playlist curators. With industry co-signs, a debut EP rumored to be in the works, and a fanbase that keeps multiplying, FOLA is primed for the global stage.
2. Ayo Maff
At just 19, Ayo Maff is Afrobeats’ new youthful disruptor. His debut single “Dealer” (featuring Fireboy DML) marked him as one to watch, but it was “Are You There?” that catapulted him into the spotlight, earning praise from artists like Asake.
Now, his 2025 remix of “Are You There?” with Ayra Starr is one of the year’s most anticipated collaborations. His EP Maffian reveals surprising depth—exploring faith, resilience, and the hustle of young Nigerians. After commanding a stage at London’s O2 Arena and trading verses with the likes of Blaqbonez and Lil Kesh, Ayo Maff is proving himself not just as a star, but as a voice of his generation.
3. Taves
From Ibadan to the world, Taves (Toluwanimi Aluko) is a master of fusion. His sound draws as much from Asa’s soulful roots as it does from Khalid’s global pop sensibilities. Singles like “Bodija” and “Folake” introduced him, but it was his 2024 EP Are You Listening? that truly showcased his artistry.
In 2025, Taves has delivered strong guest verses on L.A.X’s “Let Me Know” and Ladipoe’s “Compose.” His lyrics on love, identity, and self-discovery have made him a favorite for Gen Z listeners seeking music with meaning. With a loyal following and new projects expected soon, Taves is on the fast track to international recognition.
4. TAR1Q
Chocolate City’s rising gem, TAR1Q (Tariq Oluokun), is carving a lane that fuses Afrobeats with R&B and hip-hop. His 2022 EP Son of the Moon revealed an artist unafraid to explore vulnerability—hits like “Bad Intentions” positioned him as one of Afrobeats’ most emotional storytellers.
In 2025, his singles “Jigga” (with Khaid) and “Must Have Been” highlight his versatility, while his hook on Chocolate City’s “Aromatherapy” cemented his status as a go-to collaborator. With label backing and a growing cult fanbase, TAR1Q is set to push Afrobeats into more soulful and introspective directions.
5. Chella
Chella thrives on unpredictability. With a self-described “mad man” persona, he has turned chaos into melody. His 2024 hit “Nyash na Nyash” announced his arrival, while his acclaimed EP Tears of a Mad Man showcased his versatility.
This year, “My Darling” has taken him beyond Nigeria, cementing his reputation as Afrobeats’ wildcard. Comparisons to Omah Lay and Rema are natural, but Chella is blazing his own path—infusing humor, heartbreak, and street wisdom into every record. If his debut album drops as expected, Chella could crown himself as Afrobeats’ most unconventional superstar.
6. Fido
With his streetwise storytelling and infectious hooks, Fido is an artist of the people. His debut “Awolowo” in 2024 was an anthem on the streets, while his follow-up “Joy is Coming” has resonated as a rallying cry for optimism in 2025.
Fido’s grassroots rise, powered by social media and loyal fans, has made him one of the most relatable new acts. With a rumored Kizz Daniel remix on the way, Fido has the potential to break into mainstream Afrobeats and beyond while keeping his authentic street edge intact.
7. Serøtonin
For those craving depth and mood-driven Afrobeats, Serøtonin delivers. His 2024 releases “May 10th” and “Venus” introduced fans to his blend of highlife undertones, poetic lyrics, and experimental production.
Backed by Chocolate City and EMPIRE, Serøtonin represents the genre’s alternative frontier. His ability to channel vulnerability and introspection into hypnotic records has critics labeling him as one of Afrobeats’ most innovative voices. As anticipation builds for his 2025 projects, Serøtonin is set to push the boundaries of what Afrobeats can be.
8. Llona
From Kano State, Llona (Michael Ajuma Attah) is Afrobeats’ Northern star. His debut album Homeless climbed the Nigerian charts in 2024, with “HBP” and its Bella Shmurda remix establishing him as a rising name.
What separates Llona is his raw honesty—writing about mental health, survival, and resilience while still crafting beats that move dance floors. By infusing his Northern Nigerian heritage into Afrobeats, Llona is diversifying the soundscape and representing a part of the country often overlooked in mainstream Afropop.
9. Kunmie
The definition of a breakout, Kunmie arrived in 2025 with a bang. His debut “Arike” amassed 7 million Spotify streams in its first month and soared to No. 2 on the Global Viral Chart. His EP Before We Became Strangers followed quickly, with “Majẹkajá” and “I Admit” dominating TikTok challenges.
Kunmie’s magic lies in his storytelling. His songs feel deeply Nigerian but resonate universally, thanks to lush melodies and heartfelt lyrics. In less than a year, he has positioned himself as one of Afrobeats’ brightest new hopes—with the potential to become a crossover sensation.
10. Mavo
At 21, Marvin “Mavo” Oseremen is shaking up Nigeria’s Afrobeats scene with his raw, slang-heavy sound. His 2023 debut EP Ukanigbe mixed Afrobeats, rap, and amapiano, but 2025’s “Escaladizzy II” (feat. Ayra Starr, Shallipopi, Zlatan) skyrocketed him to fame, hitting over 1M Spotify streams and No. 14 on the UK Afrobeats Top 20. With 757,000 monthly listeners and buzz from BNXN and Cruel Santino, Mavo’s playful “Bizzylingua” and streetwise vibe are redefining the genre. Expect more fire on Adekunle Gold’s upcoming album. Mavo’s here to stay.
The Future of Afrobeats is Already Here
From FOLA’s romantic grooves to Kunmie’s viral ballads, these emerging acts are proof that Afrobeats is not slowing down—it is expanding in every direction. They are rewriting what the sound can be, experimenting with genres, and connecting with global audiences on a massive scale.
As they rise, one thing is clear: the future of Afrobeats is not just about a few superstars at the top. It is a movement powered by fearless young artists who refuse to be boxed in. And in 2025, that movement is louder, bolder, and more unstoppable than ever.