The Nigerian entertainment industry continues to thrive on talent, reinvention, and versatility. One remarkable trend is the evolution of music producers stepping out from behind the scenes to take center stage as performing artistes. These creatives, once known solely for crafting beats and shaping sounds, are now using their voices and presence to captivate audiences , proving that their artistry goes far beyond the studio console.
Here are 10 Nigerian producers who successfully made the leap from producing to performing, showcasing their versatility and creative prowess.
These individuals have successfully navigated the shift from behind-the-scenes production to front-stage performances, captivating audiences with their talents. LEADERSHIP Weekend, explores the stories of Nigerian producers who made this remarkable transition, defying conventions and redefining their careers in the entertainment industry.
Masterkraft
Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke, professionally known as Masterkraft, is a master of his craft when it comes to music production. He is a prolific Nigerian producer who has worked with numerous A-list artistes. While primarily recognised for his production skills, he has also stepped into the limelight with his songs, displaying his talent as both a producer and a musician.
Osabuohien Osaretin, better known as Sarz, is a Nigerian record producer renowned for his unique production style that blends Afrobeats with electronic dance music. While his production credits are numerous, Sarz has also ventured into the spotlight as a musician, releasing tracks that reflect his experimental approach.
Runtown
Douglas Jack Agu, aka Runtown, first garnered attention as a producer but soon found his calling as a singer-songwriter. His hit single “Gallardo” marked his breakthrough into the limelight, and he has since become known for his versatile musical style that fuses Afrobeats with hip-hop and R&B. He run the town in 2018 with hit songs ranging from ‘Mad Over You’ to ‘For Life’.
Maleek Berry
Maleek Berry is a Nigerian producer and artist known for his significant contributions to the music industry. He gained recognition as a producer, working with prominent artists such as Wizkid and Davido. Berry’s unique sound blends Afrobeats, R&B, and electronic music, creating a distinctive style. In 2013, he released his debut single, “The Matter.” featuring Wizkid, marking his transition into a successful solo artist. His EPs “Last Daze of Summer” and “First Daze of Winter,” which included singles like “Kontrol” and “Let Me Know,” helped to establish his reputation.
Pheelz
Phillip Kayode Moses, aka Pheelz, is a prominent Nigerian producer and artist known for his remarkable contributions to the Afrobeats genre. Rising to fame with his work on Olamide’s “Baddest Guy Ever With the Liveth” album, Pheelz established himself as a powerhouse in the music industry. His production skills have shaped numerous hits for top artists, like Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML, and Adekunle Gold. In addition to his production prowess, Pheelz has also ventured into performing, releasing tracks that showcase his versatility and talent.
Pheelz made a major entry into music with his debut album, Finesse, which featured Buju. This song gained huge popularity, receiving over 200 million global streams and being on former US President Barack Obama’s 2022 Summer Playlist.
Young John
Known as “The Wicked Producer,” Young John’s work spans various genres, showcasing his flexibility and unique approach to music production. His collaborations with artists like Olamide, Davido, and Tiwa Savage have reinforced his reputation as a creative force. Transitioning from producer to performing artist, Young John continues to captivate audiences with his talent.
He signed with Chocolate City and released his first single, Dada, which enjoyed wide acceptance and success. Following his transition to an artist, he has collaborated with Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, and Davido, etc.
Tekno
Tekno, born Augustine Miles Kelechi, is a renowned Nigerian producer, singer, and songwriter celebrated for his significant contributions to the Nigerian music scene. Entering into the music scene with his debut single “Holiday” in 2013, Tekno rose to prominence for his addictive beats and romantic tunes. His 2016 hit “Pana” solidified his status. earning him global recognition. Beyond his singing career, Tekno is an accomplished producer, crafting hits for numerous artists. Tekno has been attributed to producing Davido’s smash song IF, which quickly became one of the most legendary songs in Afrobeats. IF won Best Pop Single and Song of the Year at The Headies 2018.
Del B
Adekunle Adegbite, known as Del B, is a Nigerian producer who has contributed to some of Afrobeats’ biggest hits. Beyond his production skills, Del B has stepped onto the stage as a singer, leveraging his deep understanding of melodies and rhythms to craft his own unique musical identity.
Phyno
Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also known as Phyno, is a well-known Nigerian producer and performer, best known for his distinct blend of indigenous rap and current music. He was born in Enugu and rose to prominence for his ability to rap in the Igbo language, which distinguishes him in the Nigerian music industry. Phyno began as a producer before moving into music.
Phyno produced for musicians such as Illbliss and Nigga Raw, among others. Hits like “Ghost Mode” and “Man of the Year” from Phyno’s 2014 debut studio album, “No Guts, No Glory,” confirmed his reputation as a versatile artist.
Jesse Jagz
Jesse Jagz stands as a prolific figure in Nigeria’s music scene, renowned for his dual roles as both a producer and artist. Jesse Jagz produced Ice Prince’s album ‘Everybody Loves Ice Prince,’ which is considered one of the defining records in Nigerian hip-hop.
Jesse Jagz also produced Brymo’s ‘Good Morning’ and nearly all of the songs on his album, ‘Jagz Nation Vol. 1.’ With a career defined by invention and versatility, he has forged a unique route in the industry.
Credit: Leadership
