The Nigerian music industry is the biggest in Africa with artistes that churning out hit music under several record labels.
With the disappearance of big names like Sony, EMI and Premier, Nigerian musicians now release their songs under independent labels, a trend that owes a lot to the success of Kennis Music.
Here we present the five of the biggest record labels currently operating in Nigeria based on the number of artistes, hit singles produced, albums released and successful tours.
- Mavin
Mavin was formed by ace producer, Don Jazzy, after his split with business partner, D’banj, in 2012.
The two were executive officers of the defunct Mo’ Hits records, which had Wande Coal, Dr Sid, K-Switch, D’Prince.
What Don Jazzy now refers to as Supreme Mavin Dynasty is home to recording artistes such as Tiwa Savage, Dr Sid, D’Prince, Korede Bello, Di’Ja, Reekado Banks, and Iyanya.
It also serves as an abode for music producers, Altims and Babyfresh.
Korede Bello’s ‘Godwin’ was arguably its biggest single in 2015.
- YBNL
YBNL is an acronym for Yahoo Boy No Laptop and it is owned by rapper, Olamide.
Other artistes on the label are Adekunle Gold, Chinko Ekun, Viktoh, DavoLee, and Temmie Ovwasa.
It has in-house producers such as Pheelz, Young John and B Banks.
Olamide has released four studio albums since inception of the label.
YBNL was home to rapper, Lil Kesh, who left after releasing his first studio album to float his own record label, YAGI.
- Chocolate City
The label was founded in 2005 by lawyer, Audu Maikori, and two business partners.
It is home to artistes such as M.I, Femi Kuti, Ice Prince, DJ Caise, Pryse, Nosa, Jesse Jagz, Victoria Kimani, Dice Ailes, Koker, Ruby Gyang, DJ Lambo, Loose Kaynon, Kahli Abdu and VHS Safari.
M.I became president of Chocolate City Music group in 2015.
- Empire Mate Entertainment
EME was founded in 2002 by R&B singer, Banky W.
Apart from the founder, the label also has Shaydee and Niyola.
It was home to Wizkid before he left to set up Starboy.
- Davido Music Worldwide
DMW is the acronym for Davido Music Worldwide, owned by Afro pop artiste, Davido.
It houses recording artistes such as Mayorkun, Dremo, Danagog, Dammy Krane and Lola Rae.
Lola Rae’s music video ‘Biko’, which features label boss, Davido, just hit over one million views on YouTube.
Honourable mentions
Starboy Records
G Worldwide
5 Star Music
Capital Hill Music
Triple MG
