Pop

Nigerian pop is all about catchy hooks, danceable beats, and relatable lyrics, blending Afrobeats and global pop. It’s the music of parties, radio, and viral trends, loved across Nigeria and beyond.

Examples:

• “Essence” by Wizkid ft. Tems
• “Bloody Samaritan” by Ayra Starr

Afrobeat

Pioneered by Fela Kuti, Afrobeat mixes African rhythms, jazz, funk, and highlife, often with bold social messages. Its modern Afrobeats offshoot adds pop flair, dominating global charts.

Examples:

• “Ye” by Burna Boy
• “Ojuelegba” by Wizkid

Alternative

Nigerian alternative combines soul, indie, and experimental sounds, offering introspective lyrics and unique vibes. It’s the choice for listeners craving music off the mainstream path.

Examples:

• “Rapid Fire” by Cruel Santino
• “Jailer” by Asa

Classical

Nigerian classical music features orchestral and choral works, blending Western traditions with African rhythms. It’s prominent in concert halls and cultural events like the MUSON Festival.

Examples:

• “Nigerian Suite” by Fela Sowande
• “Hallelujah Chorus” by MUSON Choir

Commercial (Jingles, TV Themes)

Commercial music includes catchy jingles and TV themes for ads and shows, often infused with pop or Afrobeat. These tunes are short, memorable, and quintessentially Naija.

Examples:

• Glo “Unlimited” Jingle
• “Big Brother Naija” Theme

Country

Country music, while not widely popular in Nigeria, often tells stories of love, loss, and rural life, using acoustic guitars and heartfelt lyrics. Nigerian country artists blend this with local themes, especially in the northern regions.

Examples:

• “Nigerian Girl” by Billy O 
• “Sai Wani” by Bala Miller

Dance & Electronic

Nigerian dance and electronic music delivers high-energy beats, blending EDM, Afrobeat, and Amapiano. It’s the sound of Lagos clubs and global dance challenges.

Examples:

• “Ameno Amapiano (Remix)” by Goya Menor & Nektunez
• “Monalisa” by Lojay & Sarz

Traditional Music

Traditional Nigerian music is deeply tied to cultural and religious practices, with instruments like the Yoruba talking drum and the Igbo ogene. This genre encompasses music used in rituals, festivals, and spiritual ceremonies.

Examples:

• “Ekwueme”  by Onyeka Onwenu
• “Sakara Music” by Yusuf Olatunji

Highlife

Highlife blends Western jazz with African rhythms, producing lively, celebratory tunes often featuring brass and guitars. It has remained a staple in Nigeria’s musical culture, especially in the southeastern regions.

Examples:

• “Ada Ada” by Flavour
• “Joromi” by Sir Victor Uwaifo

Hip Hop / Rap

Nigerian Hip Hop blends Western rap with local languages and sounds. Often used for storytelling, this genre explores social issues, personal experiences, and commentary.

Examples:

• “Eyan Mayweather” by Olamide
• “Undisputed” by M.I Abaga

Jazz

Jazz music in Nigeria fuses traditional African rhythms with smooth, improvisational melodies. This genre is well-loved in the Lagos live music scene, where artists continue to blend jazz with Afrobeat and other local styles.

Examples:

• “Opataricious” by Dr. Victor Olaiya
• “Ekwe” by Lagbaja

Funk

Rooted in Afrobeat, Nigerian funk grooves with basslines and syncopated rhythms. It’s vibrant in live performances, carrying Fela’s legacy forward.

Examples:

• “Alo Mi Alo” by Orlando Julius
• “Black President” by Seun Kuti

Kids and Children Music

This genre includes playful, educational songs aimed at young audiences. Typically featuring simple melodies and repetitive lyrics, these songs often convey learning themes or nursery rhymes.

Examples:

• “Baba Yetu” by Nigerian Kids Choir
• “Tales by Moonlight” Theme.

Music for Motion Pictures

Music made specifically for movies, TV shows, or documentaries, this genre includes soundtracks that enhance the emotional tone of visual storytelling.

Examples:

• “The Wedding Party” Soundtrack by Cobhams Asuquo.
• “October 1″ score by Hildur Guðnadóttir.

Reggae & Dancehall

Reggae and Dancehall music originated in Jamaica and has strong ties to Nigerian music, offering themes of social justice and love. Nigerian artists have embraced both styles, creating danceable, rhythmic tunes.

Examples:

• “No Kissing” by Patoranking
• “Come Around” by Timaya

Rhythm & Blues / Soul

Nigerian R&B and soul explore love and heartbreak with smooth vocals and Afrobeat influences, captivating listeners at home and abroad.

Examples:

• “Jowo” by Wande Coal
• “Try Me” by Tems

Rock

Rock music in Nigeria blends electric guitars, drums, and rebellious themes, but it remains niche compared to other genres. Bands like Threadstone have blended rock with local sounds, adding a unique twist to the genre.

Examples:

• African Rock” by 12th Avenue 
• “Stone Free” by Clay

Spiritual / Gospel

Gospel music in Nigeria is vibrant, faith-centered, and uplifting, with artists using powerful vocals to spread messages of hope, praise, and worship.

Examples:

• “Way Maker” by Sinach
• “Nara” by Tim Godfrey

Spoken Word / Medley

 Spoken Word is a genre that focuses on poetry and narrative performance, often combining with music to enhance the message. Nigerian artists are gaining recognition for their poetic performances.

Examples:

• “Arise” by Titilope Sonuga
• “This is Lagos” by Dike Chukwumerije