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Top 20 Biggest Record Label In Nigeria: Shaping the Music Industry

List of All Record labels in Nigeria


Nigeria's music industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, evolving into a global powerhouse of Afrobeat and other musical genres. This shift is largely due to the emergence of talented artists and influential record labels that have paved the way for Nigerian music to gain international recognition. In this comprehensive article, we will take a deep dive into the top 20 biggest record labels in Nigeria as of 2021, exploring their history, impact on the industry, and the artists they've nurtured.

1. Mavin Records: The Don Jazzy Legacy

Mavin Records Logo

Mavin Records, founded by the illustrious producer and artist Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, stands as one of Nigeria's most prestigious record labels. Established in 2012, Mavin Records has consistently been at the forefront of the Nigerian music industry, offering a nurturing ground for emerging talent. The label boasts a roster of stars, including Tiwa Savage, Rema, Korede Bello, and Di'Ja, who have made waves both nationally and internationally.

Don Jazzy, the creative genius behind the label, is renowned for his exceptional production skills and the ability to mold raw talent into global superstars. His distinctive sound and astute business acumen have played a crucial role in shaping the contemporary Nigerian music landscape. Mavin Records' commitment to delivering chart-topping hits and innovative music has made it a household name, and it continues to be a force in the industry.

2. DMW (Davido Music Worldwide): A World of Davido

DMW Logo

Davido Music Worldwide, popularly known as DMW, is a label synonymous with the name David Adedeji Adeleke, better known as Davido. The label, founded by the multiple award-winning artist, has been a consistent producer of hit songs and has introduced the world to a multitude of emerging talents. DMW's roster includes artists like Mayorkun, Dremo, Peruzzi, and Idowest.

Davido's unwavering commitment to the growth of African music has driven DMW to attain international recognition and acclaim. The label's success lies in its knack for discovering and nurturing raw talent, coupled with its dedication to producing globally appealing music.

3. YBNL Nation: Olamide's Indigenous Hip-Hop Revolution

YBNL Logo

When discussing the rise of indigenous hip-hop and rap music in Nigeria, YBNL Nation, or Yahoo Boy No Laptop Nation, cannot be overlooked. Founded by Olamide Adedeji, known as Olamide Baddo, YBNL has consistently provided a platform for artists who celebrate their roots through music. Olamide's unique style and dedication to his craft have propelled YBNL to the forefront of Nigerian music.

YBNL has nurtured artists like Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, and Fireboy DML. The label's contributions to the development of street-hop and Afrobeat are undeniable, and it continues to be a driving force in the industry.

4. Chocolate City: The Pioneers of Nigerian Hip-Hop

Chocolate City Logo

Chocolate City is a record label that has etched its name in the annals of Nigerian music history as a pioneering force in the promotion of hip-hop and rap. Founded in 2005 by Audu Maikori and Paul Okeugo, the label has played a pivotal role in nurturing some of Nigeria's most iconic artists, including MI Abaga and Ice Prince.

Chocolate City is celebrated for its commitment to the growth of the hip-hop genre in Nigeria, and its impact extends beyond music to include the promotion of various other creative talents. The label's contribution to the evolution of Nigerian hip-hop cannot be overstated.

5. Starboy Entertainment: Wizkid's Global Influence

Starboy Entertainment Logo

Starboy Entertainment, founded by the global sensation Wizkid (Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun), is a powerhouse that has left an indelible mark on the international music scene. Wizkid's rise to global stardom, along with his distinct Afrobeat sound, has propelled Starboy Entertainment to the forefront of the Nigerian music industry.

The label has been instrumental in taking Afrobeat to the world stage, with artists like Terri and Spotless benefiting from its influence. Wizkid's achievements and accolades have garnered significant attention, and he remains one of the most prominent figures in the music industry worldwide.

6. 2Nite Music Group: Flavour's Highlife Legacy

2Nite Music Group Logo
2Nite Music Group, founded by the highlife maestro Flavour (Chinedu Okoli), is a label that champions Afrobeat and highlife music. Known for its infusion of Igbo culture and sounds, 2Nite Music Group has created a niche for itself in the Nigerian music landscape.

Flavour, with his charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals, has been the cornerstone of this label. His ability to transcend boundaries and introduce highlife music to a global audience has been one of the label's defining characteristics.

7. X3M Music: A Hub for R&B and Alternative Musi

X3M Music Logo

X3M Music, known for promoting R&B and alternative music, has been instrumental in nurturing talents who bring a unique flavor to the Nigerian music scene. The label was co-founded by Steve Babaeko and Omatshola Iseli, and it has become a creative space for artists to express themselves through soulful music.

Notable artists like Simi, Praiz, and other talented musicians have emerged from the X3M stable. The label's focus on quality and the artistry of its artists has led to the production of chart-topping songs and albums that resonate with a diverse audience.

8. Five Star Music: The Kcee and E-Money Venture

Five Star Music Logo

Five Star Music, owned by the dynamic duo of Kcee (Kingsley Chinweike Okonkwo) and E-Money (Emeka Okonkwo), has established itself as a platform for producing hit tracks and showcasing emerging talent in the Nigerian music industry.

With a history of presenting a mix of genres, Five Star Music has played a crucial role in the careers of artists such as Harrysong, Skiibii, and Kcee himself. The label's innovative approach and ability to adapt to evolving musical trends have solidified its presence in the industry.

9. Triple MG (Made Men Music Group): A Collective Vision

Triple MG Logo

Triple MG, also known as Made Men Music Group, was founded by Ubi Franklin and managed by Iyanya. This label, known for its collaborative approach to the music industry, has consistently delivered hit songs and introduced promising artists.

Triple MG has been home to notable talents like Tekno, Emma Nyra, and Selebobo. The label's commitment to producing music that resonates with the Nigerian audience has made it a significant player in the industry.

10. Penthauze Music: Phyno's Rap Empire

Phyno's Penthauze Music Logo 

Phyno's Penthauze Music has been a powerhouse in the rap and hip-hop genres in Nigeria. Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, known as Phyno, is one of the most influential rappers in the country, and his label reflects his commitment to the genre.

The label has given rise to artists like Rhatti and Nuno, who have contributed to the growing prominence of indigenous rap and hip-hop in Nigeria. Phyno's ability to fuse traditional Igbo elements with contemporary rap has been a defining feature of Penthauze Music, and this fusion has earned the label a dedicated fan base.

11. Baseline Music: The Home of Skales

Baseline Music Logo

Baseline Music is renowned for promoting various musical talents, with special recognition going to artists like Skales. The label has made a significant mark in the Nigerian music industry by offering a platform for artists to explore and experiment with their creativity.

Skales, a versatile artist with a wide range of musical influences, emerged from Baseline Music and established himself as a prominent figure in the industry. The label's contribution to the growth of diverse music genres cannot be overstated.

12. HKN Music: Davido's Creative Playground

HKN Music Logo

HKN Music, founded by Nigerian superstar Davido and his brother Adewale Adeleke, has been integral to the development of Davido's career and the growth of several other artists, including B-Red and Sina Rambo.

Davido's dynamic presence in the Nigerian music industry has translated into HKN Music's success. The label's innovative approach to music production and artist development has garnered attention and continues to drive the careers of talented musicians.

13. Aristokrat Records: The Home of Burna Boy

Aristokrat Records Logo

Aristokrat Records, founded by Piriye Isokrari, has played a significant role in the emergence of Afro-fusion star Burna Boy. The label has been a trailblazer in pushing the boundaries of Nigerian music and introducing fresh sounds to the industry.

Burna Boy's global recognition and the success of his album "African Giant" are a testament to the label's vision and commitment to nurturing talent. Aristokrat Records' fusion of genres and its willingness to experiment with new sounds have contributed to the label's enduring appeal.

14. Hypertek Digital: The 2Baba Connection

Hypertek Digital Logo

Hypertek Digital, owned by the iconic artist 2Baba (Innocent Idibia), stands as a major player in the Nigerian music landscape. 2Baba's contribution to the industry is undeniable, and his label has been a launchpad for various artists.

The label's focus on producing quality music, combined with 2Baba's legendary status, has attracted both established and emerging talents. Hypertek Digital has contributed to the growth of Afrobeat and has been at the forefront of delivering timeless music to Nigerian audiences.

15. Effyzzie Music Group: Empowering Female Talent

Effyzzie Music Group Logo

Effyzzie Music Group, founded by Taiye Aliyu and managed by Afropop star Yemi Alade, has been a powerhouse for female artists in Nigeria. Yemi Alade, one of the nation's leading female musicians, is an example of the label's dedication to showcasing women's talent.

Effyzzie Music Group's support for female artists has been instrumental in promoting gender diversity in the music industry. The label's commitment to empowering women in music is an inspiring example of its vision and ethos.

16. SMD (SMD Records): Banky W's Influence

Syndik8 Records Logo

Banky W's record label, SMD (Syndik8 Records), has been instrumental in producing several prominent artists, including the internationally acclaimed Wizkid. Banky W, a multi-talented artist and entrepreneur, has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of emerging talents.

SMD Records is celebrated for its ability to groom artists and provide them with a platform to thrive. The label's legacy extends beyond music and encompasses philanthropic initiatives that aim to make a positive impact on society.

17. Spaceship Entertainment: Burna Boy's Journey to Stardom

Spaceship Entertainment Logo

Spaceship Entertainment is closely associated with the rise of Afro-fusion sensation Burna Boy (Damini Ogulu). Burna Boy's distinctive sound, a fusion of African rhythms and global influences, has taken the world by storm, and Spaceship Entertainment has been at the heart of this global journey.

The label played a crucial role in Burna Boy's transformation into an international superstar. Spaceship Entertainment's commitment to pushing the boundaries of Afrobeat and its dedication to nurturing innovative artists are key factors behind its success.

18. Edge Records: Reminisce's Influence

Edge Records Logo

Edge Records, owned by the versatile rapper Reminisce (Remilekun Abdulkalid Safaru), is known for its impact on the rap and hip-hop scene in Nigeria. Reminisce's unique style and lyrical prowess have contributed to the label's success.

Edge Records has provided a platform for emerging rap talents to showcase their skills. The label's commitment to preserving the essence of hip-hop music while adapting to contemporary trends has cemented its place in the industry.

19. Banky W's EME (Empire Mates Entertainment): A Platform for Stars

Empire Mates Entertainment Logo

Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), founded by Banky W and Tunde Demuren, has consistently been a breeding ground for stars. Banky W's dynamic approach to music and entertainment has played a vital role in the success of EME.

EME has been the home to artists like Banky W himself, Wizkid, and Skales, who have gone on to achieve great success. The label's versatility and willingness to explore various music genres have allowed it to cater to diverse audiences.

20. Rudeboy Records: A Solo Journey

Rudeboy Record Logo

After the P-Square duo's split, one-half of the iconic duo, Paul Okoye, known as Rudeboy, ventured into a solo career and established Rudeboy Records. The label represents a new chapter in his journey as an artist and showcases his individuality.

Rudeboy Records' commitment to creating music that resonates with fans of the iconic P-Square group is evident in Rudeboy's solo success. The label continues to contribute to the growth of Nigerian music by exploring various genres and sounds.

These top 20 record labels have not only given artists a platform to showcase their talent but have also contributed to the global popularity of Nigerian music. Their commitment to innovation, artist development, and producing music that transcends boundaries has made a profound impact on the music industry.

Please note that the Nigerian music industry is dynamic, and it's highly likely that there have been significant developments and emerging record labels since 2021. To get the most up-to-date information, I recommend checking recent sources and industry news.

Let's hear from you which other record label do you think we should add to this list??

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