Plantashun Boiz

Formed in the late 1990s, Plantashun Boiz consisted of 2Face Idibia (now known as 2Baba), Blackface Naija, and Faze. The trio met in Enugu while attending the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) and quickly gained popularity with their harmonious blend of R&B and reggae influences. Their music often addressed themes of love and social issues. Two of their most successful songs are “Knock Me Off” and “You and I,” both of which showcased their vocal synergy and lyrical depth.

After moving to Lagos to pursue music more seriously, a chance meeting with Tony Tetuila (formerly of The Remedies) helped provide further exposure, eventually leading to the release of their debut album in 2000. The group was managed by Owoyemi Akinwale Nathaniel (Natz), Ifeanyi Oji (Odogwu), and Obasi Leonard (Baba Leo). The trio parted ways after releasing two albums, with 2Face embarking on a solo career. They were instrumental in leaving a lasting mark on Nigeria’s music culture.

In 2007, they reunited briefly for a third album titled ‘Plan B’, which was distributed by T Joe, and led to the formation of Plantashun Entertainment Ltd. Management.

P-Square

Composed of twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, P-Square rose to prominence in the early 2000s with their energetic performances, catchy songwriting, and dance-driven videos. They fused R&B, Afropop, and hip-hop with strong vocal melodies and choreography that set a new standard in the Nigerian music scene. Their debut album ‘Last Nite’ (2003) introduced them to the mainstream, but it was their follow-up, ‘Get Squared’ (2005), released under their own label Square Records, that made them household names.

A breakthrough success, ‘Get Squared’ became one of the highest-selling albums of 2005, spawning hit singles like “Bizzy Body,” “Temptation,” “Omoge Mi,” and “Say Your Love.” Tracks like “Oga Police” tackled social commentary, while “Story” paid homage to traditional African storytelling. The album earned them a nomination for Best African Act at the 2006 MTV EMA and swept five awards at the maiden edition of The Headies (then Hip Hop World Awards), including Best R&B/Pop Album, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Artiste of the Year. Their ability to deliver relatable themes with rich harmonies and dance-ready beats helped solidify P-Square as pioneers of 2000s Afropop dominance.

Maintain

Maintain was a Nigerian music group made up of Olu Maintain, Tolu Ogunniyi, and Big Bamo. The group was known for blending Afrobeat, hip-hop, and R&B, creating a distinctive sound that resonated with fans across Nigeria. They released six albums, producing several hit songs such as “Catch Cold” and “Alo,” which became anthems of the early 2000s before disbanding in 2004.

After the split, Olu Maintain went on to achieve further success with his solo hit “Yahooze,” which became a club and party anthem, propelling him into the limelight. Big Bamo also pursued a solo career, releasing “Fi Jo Ko Wo Je,” which also gained attention in the Nigerian music scene. Despite their separation, the group’s legacy continues to influence the sound and style of later Nigerian music acts.

Trybesmen

Trybesmen is a huge name in the Nigerian hip-hop and rap scene, gaining popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group was made up of Eldee the Don, Freestyle, and Kaboom. They played a pivotal role in shaping hip-hop culture in Nigeria, blending rap with indigenous sounds and pushing boundaries for the genre in the country. Considered one of the best groups to grace the Nigerian music scene, Trybesmen released smash hits like “Shake Bodi” and “Trybal Marks,” tracks that became anthems of the time and helped popularize Nigerian rap.

Their influence extended beyond just music; they were a critical part of introducing a more polished and globally appealing form of Nigerian hip-hop. However, the group eventually broke up with Eldee and Freestyle both pursuing successful solo careers. Eldee went on to release iconic solo projects and became one of the most respected figures in Nigerian hip-hop, while Freestyle made his mark with several notable tracks. Despite their breakup, Trybesmen’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of Nigerian rappers.

Styl-Plus

Originally known as STYL, the group was formed in 1997 in Akure, Nigeria, by Shifi Emoefe, Tunde Akinsanmi, Yemi Akinwonmi, and Lanre Faneyi. After Lanre’s passing in 1998 and the addition of Zeal Onyecheme, they rebranded as Styl-Plus. Known for their harmonious R&B and pop sound, they delivered heartfelt ballads that resonated widely. Their debut album, ‘Expressions’, released in 2006, featured the timeless hit “Olufunmi,” a soulful track that became an instant classic. Another notable song, “Imagine That,” showcased their smooth vocals and solidified their place in Nigerian music history.

The group rose to prominence with tracks such as “Olufunmi” and “Runway.” However, Yemi Akinwonmi left the group to pursue a solo career, but Styl-Plus maintained their name. The album ‘Expressions’ was a commercial hit and changed the face of RnB in the Nigerian music scene, with hits like “Iya Basira.” In later years, Tunde Akinsanmi also left the group to pursue a solo career, leaving Shifi and Zeal to continue the journey.

JJC & The 419 Squad

Led by Abdul Rasheed Bello, known as JJC, this UK-based Nigerian group was formed in the early 2000s. They were among the pioneers of Afrobeats in the diaspora, blending traditional African sounds with hip-hop and urban styles. Their song “We Are Africans” became an anthem of cultural pride, and “Atide” showcased their ability to merge genres seamlessly. JJC, originally from Kano, had migrated to South London as a teenager, where he spearheaded a sound that blended African and Caribbean rhythms with Hip-hop. He had been an in-house producer for the South London crew Big Brovaz, signed to Sony Music, even scoring a spot on the Scooby Doo 2 soundtrack.

On “Atide,” JJC Skillz gave a shoutout to Big Brovaz, with the hook provided by Cherise, a member of the same group. JJC later formed the 419 Squad, named after the infamous 419 section of Nigeria’s constitution. The squad consisted of JJC himself, S.O. Simple, Smokey, and MP (Masta Plan), and they went on to create a unique fusion of African and Caribbean rhythms with hip-hop.

They made a notable impact with tracks like “Pasa Pasa” and “No Dull Yourself,” which became street anthems in Nigeria between 2007 and 2009. MP was particularly popular for his “Osamo” chant and the “Ding Ding Dong” lyrics, which were shot by Clarence Peters. The squad also collaborated with the Maintain group (Olu Maintain & Tolu Maintain) on “Looking for A Wifey,” where Tolu Maintain rapped, “Na JJC go carry me and Olu to the Queen… for Buckingham Palace. Can’t wait to see Mama Charlie.”

419 Squad released an album in 2003, which was later re-released in Nigeria around 2005, marketed by TJoe. The album featured 11 songs, including “Gbao,” and collaborations with D’banj and Kween. On March 10, 2005, JJC & 419 Squad performed at Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, with a live band, and Don Jazzy played the keyboard.

JJC was instrumental in connecting Nigerian music to the global stage, and it is said that MP and Kas introduced D’banj and Don Jazzy to JJC in the early 2000s. This likely led to D’banj recording “Mobolowon” and his famous harmonica playing in the video. Later, D’banj and Don Jazzy went on to form Mo’Hits. JJC also mentored music video directors Sesan and Moe Musa, two of Nigeria’s most popular names in the field. During this time, JJC was hosting shows on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 3, where he was instrumental in promoting African music to a wider audience.

Zule Zoo

Comprising Hassan Ibrahim and Michael Aboh, Zule Zoo was known for their eccentric style and sound. The duo, hailing from Benue State, formed in the late 1990s and became known for their fusion of different musical genres, blending traditional Nigerian rhythms with hip-hop and reggae. Their breakthrough hit, “Kerewa,” became controversial due to its suggestive lyrics, leading to its ban by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for obscene content. Despite the controversy, the song enjoyed massive popularity across radio and street parties, and they became one of the top musical groups in Nigeria in the early 2000s with their unique dance steps.

Zule Zoo is also remembered as one of the pioneers of the Takuraku beat, which projected Nigerian culture through creative lyrical composition and innovative use of African percussion instruments. They performed at the 2018 Headies, but the duo split up in 2008 after Aboh released a solo album titled “E dey pain me.” After that, they went silent musically. In 2022, Aboh tragically passed away after slumping in the bathroom while having his bath.

Choc Boiz

A rap collective under Chocolate City, the Choc Boiz featured M.I Abaga, Jesse Jagz, and Ice Prince as core members during the late 2000s. They brought sophistication to Nigerian hip-hop, combining punchy lyricism, lush production, and commercially appealing themes. Hits like “Oleku” by Ice Prince featuring Brymo and “Short Black Boy” by M.I positioned them as top-tier wordsmiths and culture shapers. The Choc Boiz also helped cement Abuja as a force in the music industry alongside Lagos.

In 2018, M.I Abaga addressed the disbandment of Choc Boiz, revealing that he had been “accused of doing things [he] did not do and vilified in the media without ever speaking up about it.” He added that he chose to forgive because, in his words, “I am not perfect.”

Ego & Lagbaja

Ego Ihenacho gained national recognition as the lead vocalist in Lagbaja’s Africano Band during the early 2000s. Lagbaja, known for his masked persona and saxophone-driven Afrobeat, combined highlife, jazz, and Yoruba folk with socially conscious lyrics. Together, they delivered timeless songs like “Never Far Away” and “Konko Below,” blending sensuality, tradition, and jazz-funk influences. Ego’s powerful voice gave the music a stirring, emotive edge.

She left the band in 2006 and later opened up about the experience in an interview with QEDNG publisher Olumide Iyanda. According to Ego, the decision wasn’t dramatic—just a gut feeling that it was time to move on. She shared that Lagbaja was supportive of her choice, describing the farewell show in December as her “graduation.” She said, “He was happy-sad… he was like, “Okay, I always knew you had this in you.’” Ego went on to pursue a solo career, reflecting her passion and ambition for music beyond the band.

Danfo Drivers

The duo of Mountain Black and Mad Melon, known as Danfo Drivers, emerged from the vibrant streets of Ajegunle, Lagos, where street-hop culture reigned supreme. They were pivotal in popularizing the Galala dance style, a rhythmic, body-rolling movement that became a staple in Nigerian street parties. Their breakout hit, “I Am a Danfo Driver,” became an anthem, capturing the raw, pulsating energy of Lagos street life.

Another standout track, “Kpolongo,” explored the culture of aphrodisiac-laced, locally brewed gin. In it, they nodded to their forebears who celebrated with “aroma Schnapp” and name-dropped modern-day brews like “sepe,” “monkey tail,” “soldier root,” and “dongoyaro,” while cheekily cautioning listeners about their potency with the line “una go wound o.”

Despite their creative ingenuity and cultural impact, Danfo Drivers faced challenges offstage. They later revealed that they earned very little from their first two albums, accusing their promoters and label, Cornerstone Records, of colluding with pirates. The lack of proper management and financial reward stunted their trajectory. By the time they parted ways with the label, their popularity had waned, and though they attempted a comeback, their music never quite regained its mainstream hold. Still, their legacy as Ajegunle street music pioneers lives on.

Mo’Hits

Founded by producer Don Jazzy and singer D’banj in 2004, Mo’Hits was more than just a group, it was a movement that redefined Nigerian pop music. The label housed talents like Wande Coal, Dr SID, D’Prince, and Kayswitch. With Don Jazzy’s innovative beats and D’banj’s charisma, they delivered chart-topping hits like “Why Me” and “Pere.” Wande Coal’s “Ololufe” under Mo’Hits was also a standout, helping shape the sound of romantic Afropop in Nigeria.

In March 2012, Don Jazzy announced on Twitter that D’banj had left the group due to “differences in interests.” Following the split, Don Jazzy went on to establish Mavin Records, signing artists including D’Prince, Rema, and Ayra Starr. D’banj later claimed that Don Jazzy had called for the breakup, adding that he didn’t want to be a “puppet” under Kanye West, whom Don Jazzy was collaborating with at the time. After the split, Wande Coal initially joined Don Jazzy at Mavin Records, but their relationship eventually soured, as seen in a series of public tweets.

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