The year 2021 was a year of big wins in the Nigerian music industry. We cannot even say we were prepared for all that the year had in stock for us. But that is the best part of it –the unexpected challenges and the rewarding victories on all corners.
As usual, we had great songs. There were also a good number of artists that debuted. Hopefully, we will hear from them next year too. Not that I'm wishing anyone bad, that's just how it is. Above all these, we are grateful for life. Here are the highlights of 2021.
International Awards
Nigerian artists have always thrived internationally, but 2021 saw an increased appreciation for Nigerian music and artists.
Although he was nominated in 2020, Burna Boy won A Grammy for the Best Global Music Album for his 2020 Album Twice as Tall at the 2021 Grammys. Wizkid also won a Grammy for his part in the Lion King soundtrack Brown Skin Girl.
That is not all. Burna Boy also won BET Best International Act for the 3rd time, making him the first artist to win it three consecutive times.
International Collaborations
We love Nigerian music, and that’s for sure, but nothing beats having some of the best voices around the world feature on our very own Naija songs. To round up the year, Fireboy gave us Peru remix featuring Ed Sheeran. The remix topped the UK charts on Christmas day ahead of Mariah Carey’s 'All I want for Christ is you'. That’s a Christmas miracle of its own.
Another notable collaboration is Justin Bieber on Essence remix. The original song itself already broke tables, now add JB to the equation. Tems also featured on Drake’s song Fountains from his 2021 album, Certified Lover Boy.
P Square Reconciliation and Concert
After four years of fans waiting and each pursuing solo careers, the duo finally reunited to the delight of many. A video of their reunion surfaced online with both brothers hugging passionately to the admiration of their friends. It’s been a long wait to see them perform together as P Square again, so it was not surprising when they announced a concert.
The concert which took place on December 25, Christmas day, witnessed many fans trooping out to see them perform all their old songs. There were also performances from big names like Flavour, Timaya, Reekado Banks, May D, and Bracket.
Musicversary
That’s just a combination of Music and Anniversary. Turns out 2011 was a time of good music in Nigeria as Davido and Wizkid both celebrated ten years of debuting in the music industry. And it’s not just about being in the industry, but ten years of back to back hits from both artists.
On June 12, the 10th anniversary of his debut album, Wizkid released a Docuseries 'A Superstar Made in Lagos' to commemorate his anniversary. Davido, on the other hand, held a concert, A Decade of Davido, on Christmas eve to mark his anniversary.
