Edo State is experiencing a musical renaissance. From global Afrobeats superstars to fast-rising Gen-Z hitmakers, Edo artists are dominating charts, influencing culture, and pushing the boundaries of contemporary Nigerian music. This new wave is powered by talent deeply rooted in Benin culture, street creativity, and global appeal.
Here are the top trending music artists from Edo State making headlines in 2025—backed with verified facts and real industry impact.
1. REMA
There is no conversation about modern Nigerian music without mentioning Rema, born Divine Ikubor in Benin City.
He is one of Africa’s biggest international exports and a leading global force in Afrobeats.
Why Rema Trends Consistently
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His “Calm Down” remix set global streaming records and entered major international charts.
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He pioneered the Afrorave sound, blending Benin cultural elements with trap, Afrobeats, and electronic music.
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His album HEIS features lyrics in Edo/Bini language, showcasing his cultural pride.
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Rema is credited with opening global doors for younger, alternative-sounding Nigerian artists.
Rema remains Edo’s biggest musical ambassador worldwide.
2. SHALLIPOPI
Known as Presido La Pluto, Shallipopi is one of the most influential Gen-Z artists in Nigeria today.
Why He’s a Phenomenon
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He blew up with the viral hit “Elon Musk”.
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He founded Plutomania Records, becoming one of Nigeria’s youngest label CEOs.
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Songs like “Obapluto,” “Ex-Convict,” “Shakespopi,” and “Laho” continue to dominate streaming platforms.
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He infuses Edo cultural chants, Bini language, and street creativity into his music and visuals.
Shallipopi’s rise represents the new Edo sound—street-driven, energetic, and culturally proud.
3. ZERRY DL
Zerry DL is one of the most explosive new talents from Edo State and a core part of the Plutomania movement alongside Shallipopi.
Why He’s Trending
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He gained massive popularity with viral snippets and street-leaning sounds that appeal strongly to Gen-Z audiences.
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His association with Plutomania Records has positioned him as one of Nigeria’s most-watched newcomers.
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Zerry DL’s style reflects the raw, pulsating energy of Benin’s youth culture—fast beats, catchy hooks, and signature street slang.
He is expected to be one of Nigeria’s breakout stars of 2025.
4. GOYA MENOR
Goya Menor became a continental sensation with the amapiano-influenced remix of “Ameno”, a track that charted across multiple countries.
Reasons He Remains Relevant
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He graduated from Ambrose Alli University, confirming strong Edo roots.
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The success of “Ameno” gave him global visibility with performances across Europe and Africa.
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He continues to evolve his sound beyond the viral hit, pushing his own identity as an Edo-born artist.
5. JOHNNY DRILLE
John Ighodaro, professionally known as Johnny Drille, remains one of Nigeria’s most respected singer-songwriters.
Why He’s Influential
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Signed to Mavin Records, he stands out with his folk/alternative style.
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Known for hits like “Romeo and Juliet,” “How Are You (My Friend),” and soulful acoustic covers.
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His soft vocals, storytelling ability, and musical sincerity have built him a loyal global fanbase.
Johnny Drille represents the calm, lyrical side of Edo’s musical excellence.
6. EHIS D’GREATEST
Ehis D’Greatest (Israel Ehinomen Okosun) is a rising star with a unique gospel-influenced Afrobeats style.
Why He’s Trending
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His hit “This Year (Blessings)” exploded on social media and in Nigerian churches and clubs alike.
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His Edo background shines through his melodies and performance style.
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He has become one of the key young voices bridging gospel and mainstream Afrobeats.
7. FAMOUS PLUTO
As Shallipopi’s younger brother and one of the newest members of Plutomania Records, Famous Pluto is gaining fast traction.
Why He’s One to Watch
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His debut single “Na Scra” became an instant favorite among fans of the Plutomania movement.
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He carries the same Benin-inspired sonic identity that’s driving Edo’s street-pop wave.
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His rising popularity indicates he may soon be one of Nigeria’s major breakout acts.
8. KING WADADA (Veteran Icon)
King Wadada remains a music legend from Edo State.
Why He’s Important
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A respected reggae artist known across Africa.
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Winner of the prestigious Kora Award for Best Reggae Artist in Africa.
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His legacy helped pave the way for new Edo musicians exploring unique sounds and genres.
Though from an earlier generation, his influence still shines today.
Why Edo State Is Dominating Nigeria’s Music Wave
1. A Strong Cultural Identity
Edo artists proudly incorporate Bini language, chants, and symbolism into modern Afrobeats.
2. A Youth Explosion of Talent
The Plutomania generation—Shallipopi, Zerry DL, Famous Pluto—is shaping a new street-pop subculture.
3. Independent Thinking and Entrepreneurship
The rise of Edo-led record labels and music crews is driving local talent development.
4. Digital Virality
TikTok, Instagram, and streaming platforms have allowed Edo artists to thrive without traditional gatekeepers.
Final Take
Edo State is now one of Nigeria’s strongest music powerhouses. From global superstars like Rema, to viral sensations like Shallipopi, to promising talents like Zerry DL and Famous Pluto, the state is shaping the future of Afrobeats and beyond.
This is Edo’s moment—and the world is paying attention.
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