Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop (CSWS) is a What's New Magazine column dedicated to spotlighting emerging talents in the Nigerian music scene. While primarily focused on emerging artists, it also features musicians who, though not yet mainstream, consistently release excellent music.
This weekly column is your go-to source for discovering fresh, rising powerhouses shaping the underground music scene. This week, we are highlighting artists gaining traction on social media and pushing creative boundaries across genres like alternative music, rap, and more.
Let's get into it, shall we?
Zaylevelten, an alternative/rap artist, has recently gained widespread attention with his viral track Maye. The song blends rap and alté elements with pidgin English, creating a unique fusion that appeals especially to Gen Z listeners. Since it took off on TikTok, Maye has become a popular sound, helping Zaylevelten break into the Alté scene with a solid tune worth listening to. If you are a sucker for fusion and experimental music, Zaylevelten is your guy.
Following the release of his latest project Kilometer, MavoSwago has kept the momentum going with a snippet of his unreleased track, Escaladizzy. The song has become a favorite for social media users creating content, and its popularity has organically spread to regular music listeners. Although unreleased, Escaladizzy already shows strong potential as a fan favorite. We really can't wait to see how the song performs after its official release.
The fusion of amapiano and Benin dialects, popularized by Shallipopi, has inspired a new wave of artists, one of whom is Outsyd Eddie. After gaining attention through a collaboration with Famous Pluto (Shallipopi’s younger brother) on Feel D Mood, Outsyd Eddie continues to explore that amapiano x Benin sound. His new track, Afa Kennedy, carries on this hybrid style with infectious rhythm and energy, guaranteed to get listeners on the dance floor. You definitely want to tap into this artist whenever you desire a good time.
Best known for his part in the viral hit Ogechi, Brown Joel is now carving out his identity as a solo artist. While Ogechi was a collaborative debut, Brown Joel is intent on showing his range and individuality. Omo Temi departs from his usual Igbo-highlife fusion and leans into a heartfelt love song delivered in a mix of English and Yoruba. The result is a refreshing take that highlights his versatility and vocal control. He is one of the artists we are definitely eager to see how his career unfolds.
For those familiar with the Eastern Nigerian music scene, Hugo P is a well-established name. Known for blending hip hop with drill and indigenous Igbo elements, Hugo has collaborated with some of his predecessors he has constantly looked up to like Phyno and Zoro. On his latest track JJC, he delivers a personal narrative in his signature drill style, tapping Dan Dizzy to complete an energetic, introspective track. If you enjoy authentic storytelling and Igbo rap, Hugo P deserves a spot on your playlist.
Let us know some of the emerging artists you have on your playlist and those you think we should listen to.
See you next week!
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