We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again–there are few bonds more sacred than the one between an artist and the producer who just gets them. Together they create worlds, transcend the boundaries of genre and unlock previously untapped creative potential. A dynamic creative ecosystem in its own right, the Nigerian underground scene thrives on many such cases. These are names that appear again and again in the credits, the hands picking the samples that make us listen closer, and the people behind some of the most exciting music to come out of the Nigerian diaspora in recent times.
Indi x Awful Daniel
Nigerian underground singer, songwriter and producer Indi’s ethereal hyper pop sound is the stuff of dreams. She creates addictive melodies with what we can only describe as instinctive creative genius, her discography largely composed of songs that draw primarily from electronic, dance and bedroom pop influences. A fabulous producer in her own right, Indi has worked with a number of other underground producers, including 3CB and Topsy, but we cannot deny that some of the best gems in her discography have either been produced or co-produced with Awful Daniel. The pair worked together on “D.T.M.M.B”, her top streaming song, as well as bangers like “Promise”, “Over” (co-produced with 3CB), and most recently “Wya”.
S1orDie x Raide x Xrmani x 8OSCO
US based hip-hop artist S1orDie’s discography is pleasantly infused with the effortless swagger of 2000s Nigerian urban culture and 2010s hip-hop, and this is due in part to the contributions of Raide, Xrmani and 8OSCO, all credited on his latest project “Real Deal Rebel”. Together–or sometimes in sub-groups of two–they mashup nostalgic (and honestly ambitious) samples of beloved classics with contemporary hip hop elements, creating a sound that is undeniably fly. Notable tracks include “Why Always Me”, “Cellular”, “Snakes” and “U Changed” (It’s important to note that Raide is the only one credited on every track mentioned, in case anyone is wondering who the favourite is).
T3agray x Chaz
The immersive, culture-grafting world of T3agray’s “Jungle Punk” would not exist without the brilliant sonic architecture of his long-time producer Chaz. T3agray is an expressive auteur with a chameleonic range, and Chaz is more than capable of shapeshifting across genres with him. On “Jungle Punk” they work in tandem, bridging the gaps between afrobeats, punk rock and hip-hop with impressive finesse. Standout tracks include “Hometown Hero”, “Tribal Side”, “MOKG” and post-EP single “Money Trees” (feat. CantStopFiends & Underdawgbuju), which is currently T3agray’s most streamed song.
Paxslim x Haram
Nigerian-Swiss rapper Paxslim’s soothing swag rap EP “Lambo Music” was largely produced by Haram, and together they created a soundscape that feels as sleek and luxurious as the vehicle it is named for. “10am in Lagos” is the undeniable standout track on the project, combining Haram’s ingenious production with Paxslim’s deft interpretation of the Lagos hustler philosophy. The pair also worked together on his 2023 project “Holy”, with Haram producing 4 out of 11 tracks. In comparison to their work on “Lambo Music”, the tracks on “Holy” are more trap heavy, while “Lambo Music” rests in the realm of experimental Afro-rap.
Zaylevelten x Tenski
This list would not be complete without a Zaylevelten mention. With a Headies nomination for Best Alternative Album under his belt for his mixtape “Then 1t g0t Crazy”, it’s safe to say that underground rapper Zaylevelten and his producer alter-ego Tenski are the masterminds behind some of the most prolific Nigerian alt-rap tracks in recent times. With a talent for production that feels so distinct from Zaylevelten’s image as a rapper, Tenski might as well be another person. Together they have ushered the Nigerian hip hop scene into an era that has been exciting to witness, and we can’t wait to see what they create next.
Lou Kadara x Lou Kadara
UK based alternative singer, songwriter and producer Lou Kadara is the sole originator behind all his music so far, and the discography he has built is one that weaves a myriad of influences into a psychedelic melting pot that feels singular in its ability to capture the highs and lows of youth. Inspired by an indie rock band with the same name, his most streamed single of the year “Kings of Leon” combines a head-banging rock instrumental with grungy lyricism that evokes images of college benders and wild house parties. Lou Kadara’s universe unspools from him through lo-fi beats unrooted in genre, transmuting the familiar feelings of nostalgia, melancholy and longing in a language that is undeniably his own.
