The top 10 Nigerian Albums that defined the 2010s

Explore the top 10 Nigerian albums of the 2010s, showcasing diverse creativity and global impact. A decade-old list showcases Nigerian artists’ global impact, emphasizing commercial success, critical acclaim, and awards in shaping the music scene. Here are the top 10 Nigerian records of the decade (2010-2019):

10. African Giant by Burna Boy (2019)

Burna Boy’s “African Giant” made history, becoming the first African record nominated for a Grammy in Best World Music Album.

Also read: Afrobeat: 10 notable debut studio albums in the last decade

The album blends afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, pop, and hip-hop, with hits like “On The Low,” “Gbona,” “Dangote,” and “Anybody.” “African Giant” earned acclaim in 2019, praised for production, lyrics, and social commentary, showcasing Burna Boy’s global appeal.

9. Simisola by Simi (2017)

Simi’s second album breathed freshness into Nigerian music, revealing her versatility as a singer, songwriter, and producer in the industry.

The album blends elements of soul, R&B, folk and pop, with Simi’s smooth vocals and relatable lyrics. His album covers themes such as love, heartbreak, empowerment and self-discovery, with songs like “Joromi”, “Smile For Me”, “Owanbe” and “Jamb Question”.

The album was well-received by fans and critics alike, and won several awards including Album of the Year at the Headies and City People Music Awards.

8. New Era by Kizz Daniel (2016)

Kizz Daniel’s debut album transformed Nigerian pop, bringing catchy melodies, infectious hooks with hits like “Woju,” “Laye,” “Mama,” and “Jombo.”

Demonstrating vocal versatility, he effortlessly navigates highlife, afrobeat, and R&B. A commercial triumph, the album sold 40,000+ copies in its first week and won Best R&B/Pop Album at the Headies.

7. Sean Tizzle – The Journey (2014)

Sean Tizzle’s debut record was one of the most anticipated record of 2014, following his breakout hit “Sho Lee” in 2013.

The record did not disappoint, as it delivered a solid collection of songs that showcased Sean Tizzle’s talent and charisma.

The album features collaborations with artists like Tiwa Savage, Olamide, 9ice and Ice Prince, and production from D’Tunes, who crafted Sean Tizzle’s signature sound.

His album contains hits like “Perfect Gentleman”, “Loke Loke”, “Take It” and “Igi Orombo”, which earned Sean Tizzle several awards and nominations.

6. MI2 by MI Agba (2010)

MI Abaga’s second studio record was a masterpiece of Nigerian hip-hop, as it cemented his status as one of the best rappers in Africa.

The album features guest appearances from artists like 2Baba, Timaya, Waje and Ice Prince, and production from Jesse Jagz, Sarz and E-Kelly.

The record showcases MI Abaga’s lyrical prowess, storytelling skills and social consciousness, with songs like “One Naira”, “Action Film”, “Nobody” and “Beef”.

MI2 record was a commercial and critical success, selling over 30,000 copies in its first day of release and winning Best Rap Album at the Headies.

5. No Guts No Glory by Phyno (2014)

Phyno’s debut album was a landmark achievement for indigenous rap music in Nigeria, as it proved that rapping in Igbo language could appeal to a wide audience.

The album features collaborations with artists like Olamide, Flavour, Omawumi and P-Square, and production from Major Bangz, WizzyPro and Masterkraft.

His record contains hits like “Alobam”, “Man of the Year”, “Parcel” and “Ghost Mode”, which showcased Phyno’s rap skills, cultural pride and street credibility.

The album was a commercial and critical success, selling over 100,000 copies in its first week and winning Best Rap Record and Album of the Year at the City People Music Awards.

4. Invasion by Psquare (2011)

Psquare’s fifth studio record was a testament to their dominance and longevity in the Nigerian music scene, as they delivered a diverse and impressive album that catered to different tastes and markets.

The record features collaborations with artists like Akon, Rick Ross, Tiwa Savage and Naeto C, and production from Vtek, Fliptyce and Jay Sleek.

His record contains hits like “Chop My Money”, “Beautiful Onyinye”, “Do As I Do” and “Bunieya Enu”, which showcased P Square’s versatility, creativity and harmony.

The album was a commercial and critical success, selling over 1 million copies in its first week and winning Album of the Year at the Headies.

3. Baddest Guy Ever Liveth by Olamide (2013)

Olamide’s third album broke through with a new sound, defining Nigerian street music and resonating widely with the masses.

The record includes collaborations with Phyno, Ice Prince, Pepenazi, and Ketchup, featuring production by Pheelz, Young John, and B-Banks. Hits like “Durosoke,” “Turn Up,” “Yemi My Lover,” and “Eleda Mi” highlight Olamide’s rap skills, street slang, and humor.

The record’s success was both commercial and critical, selling 40,000 copies on day one and securing Headies awards for Best Rap Album and Album of the Year.

2. Superstar by Wizkid (2011)

Wizkid’s debut record revolutionized Nigerian pop with afrobeat-inspired sounds, influencing the global music scene.

Wizkid’s collaborations with Banky W, Skales, Wande Coal, and D’Prince, plus hits like “Holla At Your Boy,” showcased his charisma.

Massive success, the album sold over 10 million copies globally and earned Best Album of the Year at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards.

1. Ayo by Wizkid (2014)

Wizkid’s second record was a Nigerian pop masterpiece, solidifying his status as a major star in Africa and beyond.

Featuring Tyga, Akon, Seyi Shay, and Femi Kuti, the album is produced by Legendury Beatz, Del B, Sarz, and Uhuru.

Hits like “Jaiye Jaiye,” “Show You The Money,” “Ojuelegba,” and “In My Bed” showcase Wizkid’s growth, maturity, and versatility.

The album triumphed, selling 1 million copies on iTunes in a week and winning Best R&B/Pop Album at the Headies.

These are our top 10 Nigerian albums of the decade (2010-2019). Do you agree with our list? What are your favourite albums from this period? Let us know in the comments section below.