Eight Nigerian Artists with Unique Stage Names
In the Nigerian music scene, there are many spectacular things to look out for, ranging from the artists fashion sense, personality, genre of music, to the uniqueness of their (stage) names. In this article, we will be highlighting 8 Nigerian artists with unique names.
Lifesize Teddy (born Banigo Apiafi Treasure in Port Harcourt, Rivers State), is a multitalented musician. She’s a songwriter, rapper, and a poet. The name Lifesize Teddy was inspired by her physical appearance as a child, she states this in an interview with News Central TV, then goes ahead to explain how she adopted the name, and made it stand out by including “Lifesize”. Signed to mavin records in august 2023, she was discovered by a label colleague, Ladipoe, in 2018. Inspired by artists like Brenda Fassie, Sasha P, Jay Z, and Ladipoe, she refers to her genre of music as ‘Afro-Fusion’. Since her breakout, she has released two EPs and her latest single ‘Selina’ in May, 2024.
An Endless Ocean (born Alli Hakeem Ayobami in Lagos, Nigeria) is a soulful Gospel artist whose name reflects his deep connection with God, the source of all his creativity and purpose. In an interview with Zikoko Pop, he shared the inspiration behind his moniker, which speaks to the boundless nature of his faith. Emerging on the music scene in 2015 and breaking through in 2018 with the single ‘Falala,’ An Endless Ocean has steadily built a catalog that includes one album, two EPs, and numerous singles. His latest release, ‘Alakori’ in August 2024, adds to his ever-expanding discography, while fans eagerly await his upcoming project, the Hexagon EP, and the anticipated single ‘P&A.’
Bloody Civilian (born Emoseh Khamofu in Abuja, Nigeria) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer, signed to 0207 Dej Jam. In a sit down session with Spotify, she revealed that her first time writing a song was to impress her father. In an interview with Cool FM, she explained that her name was her form of rebellion against the derogatory term directed at her people by the military in Northern Nigeria. Bloody refers to her style of music as Afro fusion. In 2022, she made her debut with a single titled ‘How To Kill A Man’. She has since released two EPs and singles, and has been featured in several viral hits such as; ‘BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR’.
Dwin, The Stoic (born Edwin Madu) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and poet. He is one half of a music band called ‘Ignis Brothers’ founder of an independent record label, St Claire Records. In an interview with Africa Tech Radio, he explains how he came about his name. Dwin, The Stoic creates music across various genres including R&B, afro fusion, indie pop, folk, afropop, EDM, etc. He has released several projects, including an album, an EP, and other solo tracks.
Show Dem Camp (often abbreviated as SDC) is a Nigerian music duo comprising of two male Nigerian artistes, Wale Davies, and Olumide Ayeni. They are known for their unique blend of alte hip-hop and afrobeats. They gained prominence with their debut album “Clone Wars” in 2012 and have since built a reputation for their innovative sound. They explained their name in an interview with NotjustokTV.
Easy Scope (born Dairo Muiz Ishola in Epe, Lagos, Nigeria), is an emerging and captivating singer. His electrifying blend of raw talent, urban storytelling, and a voice that resonates makes him one to watch out for. He became a professional recording artist at 14 while in secondary school. Since his career began, he has amassed over 1.5 million streams on Audiomack and 50,000 on Spotify. EasyScope, whose primary musical influence is BurnaBoy, is set to release his official debut single. His style of music is rooted in Epe’s musical heritage, most notably Apala genre, while embracing modern trends in Nigerian pop music. His soulful and gritty voice as well as his modern interpretation of Apala have earned him a cult following in his hometown Epe.
Ajebo Hustlers is a Nigerian music duo consisting of Knowledge and Piego. They are known for their fusion of Afrobeats and urban sounds, merging traditional African rhythm with contemporary beats. They gained popularity with their tracks and relatable lyrics. Their work resonates with a wide range of audience and contributes to the evolving landscape of African music. In an interview with Afrobeats Podcast, they explained in details, how they came about the name Ajebo Hustlers.
Wizard Chan (born Fuayefika Maxwell in Okrika, Rivers State, Nigeria) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer. His sound can be classified as one born out of love, pain, darkness and struggles to find and stay true to self. In an interview with Channels Television, he explains the origination of his name, Wizard Chan.