Afrobeats seems not to be sleeping as it keeps birthing new stars that are shaking up the internet, dominating charts and making us fall in love with African sound all over again.
From viral TikTok sounds to chart-topping hits, these rising artists are not only catching attention but redefining the future of the genre.
Here are Top 10 Rising Stars you should be watching closely right now.
- TML Vibez (Timileyin Sulaimon): With over 120 million combined Spotify streams from just 10 songs, TML Vibez has earned his spot as a rising Afropop star. His smooth vocals and emotionally rich lyrics make his music an essential addition to any playlist.
- Rybeena (Adewale Atanda): Rybeena’s track “Gaddem” featuring Shoday peaked at No. 3 on TikTok’s Songs of the Summer 2025. His soft rhythms and relatable lyrics capture the pulse of Gen Z listeners.
- Mavo (Marvin Ukanigbe Oseremen): Mavo is the Afro-fusion star redefining authenticity in music. His hit “Escaladizzy” blew up on TikTok, while “Shakabulizzy (Remix)” featuring Davido became a game changer, peaking at No. 6 on Spotify Nigeria’s Top Songs Chart with 153,517 streams in one day, and reaching No. 3 and No. 4 on Apple Music Nigeria respectively.
- Chella (Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu): Chella’s “My Darling” secured No. 6 on TikTok’s Nigerian summer list with 57 million Spotify streams. His EP Tears of a Mad Man also made the TurnTable Chart, confirming his growing influence.
- BhadBoi OML (Akinyinka Kuham Oladimeji): BhadBoi OML’s soulful storytelling and gritty vibe connect deeply with the streets. His hit “Wasiu Ayinde” was crowned TikTok’s Song of the Summer 2025, dominating playlists nationwide. His mix of melody and raw emotion proves he’s a major force in the new Afrobeats wave.
- Llona (Michael Ajuma Attah): The Homeless album hitmaker, Llona, is redefining modern Afrobeats with his vulnerability and emotional depth. His standout song “Can’t Breathe” has over 28 million Spotify streams, while Homeless peaked at No. 11 on the TurnTable Albums Chart.
- Big Banju: Big Banju is a street-hop sensation blending raw energy with witty lyricism. His collaboration with Zlatan on “In Love With You” off his debut EP Who Is Big Banju has earned over 107,000 Spotify streams. Earlier this year, his name trended heavily on X, catching even Blaqbonez’s attention. His authenticity and street-smart charm make him one of Afrobeats’ most exciting newcomers.
- Goon Flavour: Blending Afro-dancehall, amapiano, and Afro-house, Goon Flavour’s “Ngishutheni” featuring Master KG and Eemoh sits at No. 2 on Nigeria’s TikTok chart with 18 million Spotify streams, a vibrant anthem that proves he’s next in line for greatness.
- Joshua Baraka: Uganda’s Afro-fusion gem, Joshua Baraka, is winning hearts with “Wrong Places,” which hit No. 9 on TikTok Nigeria’s summer chart and earned 11 million Spotify streams. With 1.3 million monthly listeners, his pan-African sound is spreading fast.
- Kelvinnice: Kelvinnice’s “Heart” climbed to No. 10 on Nigeria’s TikTok chart with over a million Spotify streams. His mix of rhythm, emotion, and street flavour gives him the makings of a breakout star.
These artists aren’t just trending; they’re actually transforming Afrobeats. Each one bringing his own story, rhythm, and fire that reminds us that the future of African music is indeed in safe-talented hands.
