As the global appeal of Afrobeats continues to surge, venture investors are recognizing the immense potential for substantial returns by delving into the world of Afrobeats and acquiring the catalogues of its most valuable artists. These astute investors are strategically entering this burgeoning market, anticipating significant profits in the years ahead.
In this landscape of music acquisitions, the focus is on securing the rights to the back catalogues of iconic Nigerian artists, a trend that is reshaping the industry and ushering in a new era for top-tier artists in the genre.
This article sheds light on five music back catalogues from Nigerian artists—both past and present—that hold substantial value and continue to resonate with audiences. The selection considers the expected longevity of the artists’ music, contemplating what listeners are likely to revisit over time and which catalogues exhibit a less steep decay curve year on year.
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While the order is not specified, the undeniable contributions of these artists to Nigerian music are highlighted. Here are five Nigerian artists, both past and present, with among the most valuable music back catalogues:
Fela Kuti
A cornerstone in the realm of valuable catalogues, Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat, remains an influential figure. His politically charged lyrics and infectious rhythms in classics like “Zombie,” “Water No Get Enemy,” and “Sorrow, Tears, and Blood” transcend time, securing Fela Kuti’s catalogue as one of the most valuable in Nigerian music history.
King Sunny Ade
Revered as the “King of Juju Music,” King Sunny Ade’s distinctive blend of traditional Yoruba music and modern influences has garnered global acclaim. Hits like “Ja Funmi,” “Synchro System,” and “Merciful God” showcase his virtuosity, establishing him as an icon with an extensive and influential discography.
2face Idibia/TuFace Idibia
2face Idibia, also known as 2Baba, has been a formidable force in the Nigerian music scene since the late 1990s. From his Plantashun Boiz days to a solo career, his hits like “African Queen,” “Implication,” and “Only Me” have become timeless anthems, reflecting his soulful voice and ability to address social issues through music.
Burna Boy
In recent years, Burna Boy has captivated the global music scene with a fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall. His critically acclaimed albums, including ‘African Giant’ and ‘Twice as Tall,’ alongside hits like ‘Ye,’ ‘Anybody,’ and ‘Big 7,’ have elevated Burna Boy’s back catalogue to incredible value.
Wizkid
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, has achieved widespread recognition, becoming a household name globally. His impressive array of hits, including ‘Essence,’ ‘Ojuelegba,’ and ‘Come Closer,’ as well as collaborations with international superstars, solidify Wizkid’s back catalogue as a testament to his immense talent and global appeal.
Honorable mentions extend to other remarkable Nigerian artists, such as Davido, known for his infectious Afro-pop sound, and Asa, celebrated for soulful and introspective music. The dynamic duo P-Square, with energetic performances and Afro-pop tunes like “No One Like You,” further contribute to the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s musical landscape.
As new fans discover artists from different continents, the timeless nature of this music invites exploration into the artists’ back catalogues. In the realm of music rights acquisition, various strategies are employed, maximizing value through multimedia, sync, partnerships, and revenue generated by sound recordings.
Dan Runcie, founder of Trapital, emphasizes in his podcast that the value of what artists have done in the past can shift based on their ongoing contributions. As venture funding managers with the capacity to acquire full rights, masters, and publishing, these firms leverage the multimedia potential and revenue naturally generated by sound recordings to maximize value for artists.
Ultimately, the venture into the acquisition of music catalogues marks a pivotal moment in the industry.
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