Nigerian music has produced some of the most famous collaborations in recent years, several of which have gone on to become global blockbusters.
However, in most occasions, some of these partnerships were not anticipated by fans.
The article depicts some of these collaborations that brought Nigerian artists together with their peers abroad, resulting in an explosion of talent:
Ayra Star features Stormzy and Tendai.
Grammy-nominated musician Ayra Star, also known as Sabi Girl, is noted for the sensuous feelings she offers to each tune, as evidenced by the song “Need You” starring British rapper Stormzy and Tendai.
Ayra’s aesthetics were not surprising, but the partnership was, and it can be compared to the aesthetics of Beyoncé’s famous smash Naughty Girl, which featured Usher.
Tiwa Savage collaborated with Brandy on the song “Somebody’s Son” from her album Off the Water and Garri. This song was the anthem for women all around the world when it was released, with over 33 million streams on YouTube and counting.
Qing Madi features Chloe Bailey.
Qing Madi, a Nigerian artist, collaborated with American vocalist and one-half of the Bailey sisters Chlöe Bailey to remix her song “Vision”. When Qing Madi posted about her remix collaboration on Instagram, the responses showed that most people were surprised. In the video, the singer also demonstrates her ballerina skills, which some admirers had not previously seen.
Timi Dakolo features Emeli Sande.
Timi Dakolo’s single “Merry Christmas” featuring Emeli Sande was released in 2019. Most Dakolo fans at the time were surprised by the partnership. Some others didn’t hesitate to express their amazement and excitement on social media.Both artists’ singing abilities shone through. Timi performed in his baritone, and Emile provided sonic support with her mixed register.
Ayra Star features Kelly Rowland.
Another one from Sabi Girl. In 2021, Ayra Starr rose to prominence as a musical artist. With the release of her first album, 19 and Dangerous. Later, the diva joined the collaboration train by featuring Kelly Rowland, a former member of the American musical girl group Destiny’s Child, on the remix of the hit song “Bloody Samaritan”.
Two things surprised me: the two’s facial likeness in the video, and the song itself, which was a match made in music heaven.
Skepta Ft Portable.
An honorable mention goes to British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, who features Nigerian street pop phenomenon Portable in “Tony Montana,” which is notorious for its filthy sound and antics. Portable’s partnership with Skepta was not the only surprise; his gentlemanly fashion attire astounded the majority of his followers.
Portable, despite his clean mild man appearance, astounded by his Zazu dance moves and voice inventiveness.