Nigerian music is more than just sound—it’s a pulse that echoes the nation’s soul. From vibrant cities to smaller towns papered across its vast landscape, music resonates as a powerful force that unites, heals, and energizes many Nigerians, young or old. In this age of social media volatility and tempestuous economic realities, music is a safe haven. Whether it’s the captivating beats of Afrobeat or the soothing melodies of Highlife, the story of Nigerian music is built on resilience, creativity, and identity. It subtly weaves together the history, emotions, and aspirations of the people, showing that in Nigeria, music is life.
The roots of Nigeria’s musical heritage is as poetic as Palmwine Sounds himself – it can be traced back to ancient traditions, where music was integral to everyday life. The rhythm of drums and the melody of flutes weren’t merely forms of entertainment—they were tools for communication, ceremonies, and rituals. Instruments like the ekwe, udu, and talking drum carried messages that words could not. These beats provided a bridge to the spiritual world, connecting the living with their ancestors. In many ways, these traditional sounds continue to shape contemporary music, forming the foundation upon which modern Nigerian genres are built.
Palmwine Sounds in his Artistic compilation “Music and life” adulates the African drums:
Sounds of the Drums
Drums that communicate with the ancestors.
Drums that speak.
Drums that give us percussion.
Drums that make the guitar man jive.
Drums that make us do the fire dance.
Palmwine Sounds recognizes the work and dap hand of every artiste across different genres from old to new in his poetic rustling. With cartoons and poetry, he depicts this evolution with Artistic imagery.
The Nigerian Music Landscape
One of the most remarkable aspects of Nigerian music is its diversity. With over 250 ethnic groups, the country’s soundscape is as varied as its people. From the rhythmic drumming of the Yoruba to the soothing strings of the Igbo, every region contributes something unique to the national symphony. This rich blend of sounds has allowed Nigeria’s music to transcend borders, influencing not just Africa but the entire world. Whether it’s the energetic tempo of juju or the soulful tunes of folk music, Nigeria’s musical genres reflect its multicultural heritage.
Highlife music, which emerged in the early 20th century, brought a blend of West African rhythms and Western instruments, particularly brass and guitar. Its infectious rhythms quickly became the soundtrack of a nation, narrating stories of love, loss, and the social changes sweeping across Nigeria. Artists like Osita Osadebe and Victor Olaiya used Highlife as a medium to capture the spirit of their times, infusing their music with traditional values while embracing the winds of change.
Then came Afrobeat, a genre that redefined not just Nigerian music but global sound. Pioneered by the legendary Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti, Afrobeat was more than music—it was a movement. Fela combined traditional Yoruba rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife, creating a genre that spoke directly to the political struggles of Nigeria. Through his powerful lyrics and hypnotic beats, Fela challenged corruption, oppression, and injustice. Afrobeat wasn’t just about making people dance; it was about making them think, act, and resist.
Beyond the revolutionary sounds of Afrobeat, Nigeria’s music scene also embraced the soulful melodies of reggae brought to life by artists like Majek Fashek and Ras Kimono. These pioneers used reggae’s laid-back rhythms and socially conscious lyrics to speak out against societal challenges, often addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and war. Reggae, much like Afrobeat, became a voice for the voiceless, offering comfort and inspiration in times of hardship.
As the music evolved, it continued to adapt, incorporating elements from all over the world. Juju music, popularized by icons like King Sunny Adé, fused traditional Yoruba percussion with electric guitars, creating a sound that was both deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and refreshingly modern. Meanwhile, fuji music, pioneered by artists like Barrister, mixed Islamic influences with indigenous beats, making it a favorite in religious and secular gatherings alike.
While the past holds great significance, Nigerian music is far from static. Today, the sounds of afropop, hip-hop, and dancehall dominate airwaves, bringing new energy to the nation’s soundscape. Artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido are taking Nigerian music to new heights, blending traditional rhythms with global influences to create something entirely fresh. These modern-day musicians stand on the shoulders of giants, paying homage to their predecessors while carving out new paths for future generations.
However, no discussion about Nigerian music would be complete without acknowledging the powerful role of live performances. Concerts and festivals in Nigeria aren’t just events—they’re cultural phenomena. Whether it’s the mesmerizing shows of Sir Shina Peters or the electrifying performances of Femi Kuti, live music in Nigeria is a visceral experience. The energy, passion, and connection between performers and audiences create an atmosphere where music becomes a shared language that everyone understands.
The Artistic Underpinnings
Instrumental to Nigeria’s music culture is the interplay between sound and identity. Music is not just an expression of art—it’s a reflection of who Nigerians are, where they come from, and where they’re going. Each beat, melody, and lyric tells a story, whether it’s about love, political strife, or the joys of everyday life. Nigerian music is deeply personal yet universally relatable, resonating with listeners from all walks of life, both within the country and across the world.
At the heart of Nigeria’s music lies its role in community-building. From village squares to bustling cities, music has the power to bring people together. It’s a unifying force, creating a sense of belonging and collective memory. Whether during festivals, weddings, or political rallies, music plays a central role in shaping communal experiences. It serves as a reminder that despite differences in language, tribe, or background, Nigerians are united by their shared love for rhythm and melody.
In the end, Nigerian music is more than entertainment—it is the nation’s pulse. It narrates the history, reflects the present, and shapes the future. As it continues to evolve, blending the old with the new, it remains a testament to the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the Nigerian people. Whether in the soulful sounds of Highlife or the rebellious beats of Afrobeat, Nigerian music is an anthem to life—rich, diverse, and endlessly inspiring.
There is even more in a new book called ‘Music and Life’ by Palmwine Sounds.
Palmwine Sounds is the compiler of E Be Things and Naija Nah Ur Mate – Publications by Palmwine Publishing Limited Nigeria.
Article was put together by Broadcast journalist and Poet, Fortune Omosola.
