Olamide Emerges as Spotify’s Top Street Pop Artiste in Nigeria

Spotify, a prominent online streaming platform, has recognized Olamide Adedeji, widely known as “Olamide,” as the foremost street pop artist in Nigeria. This acknowledgment comes as street pop, a sub-genre in the Nigerian music scene, gains remarkable popularity and integrates into mainstream music.

According to Spotify’s Editor for West Africa, Benewaah Boateng, Olamide has played a pivotal role in elevating street pop to mainstream recognition, starting with his hit single “Eni Duro.” Olamide’s influence extends beyond his own music, as he has popularized dance styles like “Shakiti Bobo” and introduced street lingos such as “Baddo Sneh” and “Pepper Dem.”

Through his record label YBNL, Olamide has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing emerging talents within the street pop genre. Boateng emphasizes that Olamide’s impact on the Nigerian music landscape is substantial, and the rise of street pop in 2023 is a significant trend.

Street pop, characterized by its fusion of Afrobeats, Highlife, Hip-hop, Fuji, Apala, indigenous sounds, and contemporary elements, resonates with Nigerians by reflecting the daily challenges faced on the streets. Boateng points out that Olamide secured the ninth spot among the top 10 artists in Nigeria.

Olamide’s recent project, “Unruly,” received widespread acclaim, with the track “Gaza” particularly standing out for its appeal and musical craftsmanship. Additionally, Boateng highlights Seyi Vibez, an emerging force in the street pop scene, and Zinoleesky, who has made substantial contributions to the genre.

As street pop artists explore new creative frontiers, Boateng predicts the genre’s exponential growth in the coming years, potentially positioning it as the next global phenomenon akin to Afrobeats. Olamide’s recognition as Spotify’s top street pop artist further solidifies his influence in shaping the trajectory of this vibrant music genre.