The Nigerian music industry is renowned for its vibrant and diverse talent pool, which has produced some of Africa’s most iconic and internationally recognized artists.
However, within the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, fame can be fleeting, and many once-popular Nigerian artists have sadly faded into obscurity.
In this article, we delve into the lives and careers of some of these forgotten stars who, despite their past success, are no longer in the limelight.
Eedris Abdulkareem:
Eedris Abdulkareem emerged as a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene in the late 1990s. With hits like “Jaga Jaga” and “Mr. Lecturer,” he became known for his socially conscious lyrics that tackled political and societal issues.
However, despite his initial success, Eedris Abdulkareem’s career gradually waned over the years, and he is now seldom mentioned in conversations about contemporary Nigerian music.
Weird MC:
Known for her unique style and energetic performances, Weird MC (real name Adesola Idowu) gained popularity in the early 2000s with her rap and dancehall-infused tracks. Songs like “Allen Avenue” and “Ijoya” showcased her versatility and distinctive fashion sense.
Although she made a significant impact during her prime, Weird MC’s absence from the current music scene has left her once-prominent name fading into the background.
Zule Zoo:
Zule Zoo, a music duo consisting of Ibro and Mike, shot to fame in the early 2000s with their catchy Afro-pop single “Kerewa.” The song became an instant hit, dominating the airwaves and dancefloors across Nigeria.
However, despite the success of their debut album, subsequent releases failed to replicate the same level of popularity. Today, Zule Zoo remains largely forgotten, their once-vibrant presence now a distant memory.
Tony Tetuila:
Tony Tetuila, a former member of the defunct Nigerian music group The Remedies, found success as a solo artist with hits like “My Car” and “Omode Meta N’Sere.”
He gained widespread recognition for his fusion of hip-hop and Afrobeat sounds. However, as the Nigerian music industry evolved and new artists emerged, Tony Tetuila gradually faded from the spotlight, leaving behind a legacy that is often overlooked.
Essence:
Essence Uwale Okoro, known professionally as Essence, enjoyed a successful career in the mid-2000s. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics captivated audiences, and songs like “Facebook Love” and “Like Dat” were chart-toppers. Despite her undeniable talent, Essence’s music career took a backseat as she focused on other aspects of her life. Today, she remains a forgotten gem in the Nigerian music industry.
The Nigerian music industry has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous artists throughout its rich history. While some artists have managed to maintain their relevance and sustain their careers, others have gradually faded into obscurity, their once-prominent names scarcely mentioned in conversations about contemporary Nigerian music.
Eedris Abdulkareem, Weird MC, Zule Zoo, Tony Tetuila, and Essence are just a few examples of Nigerian artists who were once celebrated but are now seldom discussed.
