Five albums from 2024 we loved — Guardian Life — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

Which matches your vibe?

Music has a method of defining our moments, and 2024 has been an outstanding 12 months for followers of Afrobeats and Nigerian music, delivering unforgettable albums that replicate pleasure, resilience, and cultural pleasure. From Ayra Starr’s youthful reflections to Wizkid’s soulful tribute to his late mom, this 12 months has been filled with unforgettable albums that completely seize pleasure, introspection, and pure vibes. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for songs to bop to, lyrics that resonate together with your soul, or beats that transport you to a different world, there’s an album right here for each temper. Which matches your vibe?

1. Heis by Rema

On Heis, Rema seamlessly blends basic Afrobeats with Amapiano. The intro monitor March Am units a party-ready tone with kinetic synths and addictive hooks, whereas Azaman delivers the right soundtrack for a carefree weekend. HeHeHe serves Rema’s playful lyricism, and Yayo exudes confidence, stirring pictures of late-night dancefloors. One other standout is Benin Boys, a nod to his roots, adopted by Ozeba’s irresistible catchy stream. Blistering from begin to end, Heis—launched in July 2024—cements Rema’s standing as a forward-thinking hitmaker unafraid to infuse cultural references into trendy pop beats.

2. The Yr I Turned 21 by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr’s journey from breakout star to seasoned artiste takes a leap ahead in The Yr I Turned 21. The venture displays her coming-of-age story via ingenious manufacturing, heartfelt lyricism, and a wealthy emotional palette. Spotlight tracks embody Commas, the standout Rhythm & Blue, and Goodbye (Heat Up)—a vigorous collaboration with Asake. Launched in Might 2024, the album immerses listeners in private tales of self-discovery, friendships, and resilience. Total, it’s a breezy, reflective album brimming with uplifting vitality that reveals Ayra Starr’s speedy inventive progress.

READ ALSO: Nigerian songs that formed 2024 …and set the tone for 2025

3. Adedamola by Fireboy DML

With Adedamola, Fireboy DML takes us on a journey via time, channelling nostalgia and optimism in equal measure, crafting a venture that beckons listeners to each replicate and dance. From its opening hit monitor Iseoluwa, which units a contemplative tone, to Again n Forth that includes legendary Lagbaja, the album melds Fireboy’s signature sultry melodies with Afro-pop beats. Launched in August 2024, Adedamola showcases Fireboy’s capacity to mix soulful lyricism with energetic instrumentals, making it a venture that resonates on each emotional and bodily ranges.

4. Lungu Boy by Asake

by Asake

Asake pushes boundaries as soon as once more with Lungu Boy, a genre-defying album launched in August 2024 that blends Fuji-techno, neo-fuji, and Afropiano. The opening monitor Mr Cash Sound (MMS) stirs nostalgia with its non secular undercurrent earlier than transitioning into spirited anthems like Lively, that includes American rapper Travis Scott. Every composition combines heavy basslines, percussion-driven hooks, and Asake’s arresting voice, culminating in an lively swirl of motion and melody. Fuji Vibe pays homage to Yoruba musical greats like Pasuma Surprise, reinforcing Asake’s knack for bridging the previous and future.

5. Morayo by Wizkid

Wizkid delivers an emotional masterstroke with Morayo, devoted to the reminiscence of his late mom. Launched in November 2024, the album spans a sonic spectrum, weaving collectively old-school Wizkid influences—harking back to his early Famous person period—with up to date Afrobeats stylings. From the celebratory groove of Kese (Dance) to the introspective undertones of Troubled Thoughts, Morayo proves Wizkid’s versatility. Standout monitor Pray looks like a pure extension of his early hits, whereas the opening sequence includes a solemn Fuji pattern recorded at his mom’s burial.