Entertainment
Unveiling Nigeria’s Top 6 Music Record Labels
Uncover the top six music record labels in Nigeria with ease! This article explores the diverse range of labels that local artists utilize to craft new songs, catering to the enjoyment of their fans and music enthusiasts.
Nigeria proudly hosts renowned music superstars recognized globally for creating exceptional songs, easily accessible for MP3 downloads.
Lately, social media has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of emerging artists in Nigeria.
Nevertheless, the significance of being affiliated with a record label remains crucial, contributing to the flourishing musical careers of artists.
Here are the top 6 prominent record labels shaping the music industry in Nigeria
MARVIN RECORDS
Mavin Records, commonly known as Mavins, stands out as a prominent Nigerian record label, leaving an indelible mark on the African music scene since its establishment in 2012 by Don Jazzy, the renowned music producer and entrepreneur.
Under the leadership of Don Jazzy as the CEO, Mavin Records has played a pivotal role in propelling numerous Nigerian music artists to stardom.
Some notable talents nurtured by Mavin Records include Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Rema, Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Boy Spyce, Ayra Starr, among others.
Don Jazzy, the label’s owner, is recognized for his benevolent efforts in guiding and elevating young artists in Nigeria.
YBNL
YBNL Records, acronym for “Yahoo Boy No Laptop Records,” is a notable Nigerian record label celebrated for its influence in the country’s music industry, particularly in hip-hop and Afrobeat genres.
Established by Olamide Adedeji, widely known as Olamide, in 2012, YBNL has emerged as a significant force in Nigerian music.
The label has propelled various successful artists to fame, such as Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, and Fireboy DML, who have gained widespread recognition for their distinctive styles and chart-topping hits.
MARLIAN MUSIC
Marlian Music, a prominent music record label in Nigeria, stands out as one of the greatest in the industry. Founded and owned by Naira Marley, a notable figure in the music scene, Marlian Music has become a hub for emerging talent.
In his role as the CEO of Marlian Records, Naira Marley has actively signed numerous young and promising Nigerian artists, aiming to nurture their talents and propel them into the spotlight.
Among the artists affiliated with Marlian Music are Mohbad and Zinoleesky, among other emerging talents. The label has played a significant role in providing a platform for upcoming artists to shine in the music scene.
DMW RECORDS
DMW (Davido’s Music Worldwide), a renowned Nigerian record label and entertainment entity, has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s music landscape, particularly in Afrobeat.
Established in 2016 by David Adedeji Adeleke, widely known as “Davido,” DMW has become synonymous with chart-topping successes and the discovery of emerging artists.
Under Davido’s leadership and vision, DMW has signed and nurtured a diverse array of outstanding artists, including Mayorkun, Dremo, Peruzzi, and Yonda, among others.
CHOCOLATE CITY
Chocolate City Music Group, a distinguished Nigerian record label and entertainment powerhouse, has significantly influenced the African music industry since its establishment in 2005 by Audu Maikori, a lawyer, and entrepreneur, along with Paul Okeugo and Yahaya Maikori.
Chocolate City has been pivotal in showcasing and nurturing exceptional Nigerian musical talent.
The label boasts a lineup of highly accomplished artists, including MI Abaga, Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz, and Brymo, among others.
These artists, affiliated with Chocolate City Music Group, have made substantial contributions, achieving numerous milestones and making waves in the music scene.
JONZING RECORDS
Jonzing World Records, a noteworthy Nigerian record label, has garnered attention in the music industry since its inception. Founded by the talented musician and songwriter D’Prince, Jonzing World Records is associated with Mavin Records, adding to its credibility within the Nigerian music scene.
While it may be lesser-known to some, Jonzing World Records stands as one of the best and most influential labels, providing promising opportunities for young Nigerians to create, record, and release new songs for global music enthusiasts.
The label has successfully brought numerous young artists to the forefront of the music industry, contributing to their rise to prominence.
Entertainment
Speed Darlington Released From Kuje Prison After Court Order
Controversial Nigerian singer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington or Akpi, has been released from Kuje Prison following a court directive.
Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju disclosed this development on Tuesday, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Speed Darlington is out of Kuje Prison.”
The singer’s release came after an Abuja court granted him bail. This decision followed intense public pressure on the Nigeria Police Force, which led to his arraignment.
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Prior to his release, Speed Darlington had petitioned Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau, DIG Dasuki Galadanchi, over his prolonged detention. He called on the DIG to comply with a court order directing his release or formal arraignment.
Justice M.S. Liman had earlier issued an order on December 23, 2024, mandating the police to charge the singer within 48 hours or release him unconditionally.
Speed Darlington’s arrest stemmed from allegations he made against Grammy Award-winning singer Burna Boy. The singer accused Burna Boy of being involved in an immoral relationship with embattled U.S. rapper and music executive Sean Combs, also known as P. Diddy.
The situation has sparked widespread discussions, with many Nigerians expressing relief at Speed Darlington’s freedom while others continue to debate the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
Entertainment
Dele Odule Reflects On His Saddest Life Moment: Losing His First Child
Veteran Nollywood actor, Dele Odule, has opened up about the most heartbreaking moment of his life, revealing it was when he lost his first child.
The 63-year-old Yoruba movie icon shared the emotional experience during an interview with his colleague, Kunle Afod, recounting how the loss deeply affected him, especially given the challenges surrounding the child’s birth.
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Odule described the tragic news as “very hard” to bear, adding that he has since come to accept it as the will of God. Despite the acceptance, the actor expressed his fervent hope never to endure such a devastating tragedy again.
He said, “The saddest moment of my life was when I was called that my first child died. It was very hard on me. It was hard because of the situation faced during the child’s birth, but no one can question God’s authority. It was so bad that I don’t pray for it anymore.”
Known for his roles in classic Yoruba films, Odule continues to share both his professional and personal experiences, endearing himself to fans and colleagues alike.
Entertainment
What Burna Boy Told Me After Giving Me $30,000 — Cubana Chief Priest’s Cousin
In early January 2025, Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy fulfilled a promise by gifting $30,000 to Bethel Okechukwu, a phone repairer from Alaba Market who had claimed to be related to socialite Cubana Chief Priest.
This act of generosity occurred amid an ongoing feud between Burna Boy and the Cubana Chief Priest.
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Following the donation, Cubana Chief Priest clarified that Bethel Okechukwu is not his brother, stating, “I have only one biological big brother & two kid sisters. They ain’t doing so bad.” He emphasized that he is not obligated to support his siblings financially and urged the public to verify such claims.
As of now, there are no credible reports indicating that Burna Boy instructed Bethel Okechukwu to take any specific actions towards Cubana Chief Priest after receiving the $30,000. The narrative appears to be centered around Burna Boy’s charitable gesture and Cubana Chief Priest’s subsequent clarification regarding his familial relationships.
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