Music producers are the backbone of the global music industry, and it is no different in the Afrobeats scene.
They craft the sound that defines a genre and also serve as vital links between artists and the broader music ecosystem. From sound creation to quality control, cultural representation, and genre fusion, the role of producers is multifaceted and critical for the success of any track.
Afrobeats has seen important figures like Don Jazzy, Sarz, Masterkraft, Killbeatz, and Pheelz, who have contributed to shaping the genre and also built a foundation that newer producers are now building upon. These OGs have been instrumental in creating hits that hit both locally and internationally, ensuring that Afrobeats continues to thrive globally.
In recent years, we’ve witnessed a surge of talented producers such as Young Jonn, Guiltybeatz, Tempoe, P. Prime, Ozedikus, Andre Vibez, Ragee, London, and Semzi Beatz. These serial hit-makers have brought fresh energy and innovation, consistently delivering chart-topping tracks and pushing the boundaries of the genre. Their contributions have made waves in Africa but have also captured the attention of global audiences, signalling the universal appeal of Afrobeats. A perfect example is Andre Vibez and London co-producing the biggest Afrobeats song of all time, Rema’s Calm Down.
Looking ahead to 2025, the emergence of new talent is exciting. The landscape is ripe with producers who have already begun to make their mark, creating some of the most compelling and memorable songs in recent years. Their unique styles and approaches are expected to redefine Afrobeats, bringing in new influences and techniques that will enrich the genre further.
As we anticipate the next wave of hits, here are some afrobeats producers to keep an eye on in 2025:
1. Dawie
Dawie emerged as one of the promising new names in the music production scene in 2024. His exceptional work on Ogechi, one of 2024’s biggest Afrobeats records, garnered widespread acclaim. The song’s success was further amplified by a remix featuring Afrobeats superstar Davido, which played a pivotal role in bringing BoyPee, Brown Joel, and Hyce into the spotlight.
Beyond Ogechi, Dawie has demonstrated his production expertise across multiple impressive records. He was responsible for the production of Johovah by Jeriq and Bella Shmurda, Ifeneme by Morravey, Tension by Hyce, Beautiful Lies (Remix) by Runda and L.A.X, as well as Forever Killa by Damo K, among others.
Building on the momentum of an impressive 2024, Dawie has shown no signs of slowing down. With his growing reputation within the Afrobeats scene, he is, without a doubt, a producer to watch in 2025. As he continues to refine his craft and contribute to major projects, Dawie is in a good position to have a better year than the previous year.
2. Iyke Elvis
As Fido secures his place as one of the artists to watch in 2025, as recognized on our Notjustok list, much of his success can be attributed to the exceptional production work of Iyke Elvis. Highly talented and innovative, Iyke Elvis has played a crucial role in shaping Fido’s sound and musical direction.
He was responsible for producing two of Fido’s hits, Awolowo, and the buzzing Joy is Coming which has already gained significant traction and is being touted as a strong contender for Song of the Year in 2025, despite the year just beginning.
Following an outstanding 2024, Iyke Elvis is well-positioned to do better this year. With his distinct and skilful production style, he is undoubtedly one of the producers to look out for in 2025. As he continues to move creative boundaries, his impact on the Afrobeats scene is set to grow even further.
3. Dibs
Yo Dibs! It’s probably a smash when the name is heard at the beginning of a song. It’s definitely one of the most frequently heard names in music production throughout 2024. With an impressive portfolio of production credits spanning top artists such as Burna Boy, Seyi Vibez, Zerry DL, Balloranking, Barry Jhay, TML Vibez, Muyeez, and more, he has emerged as a renowned name in the Afrobeats business.
His production expertise is seen in standout tracks like Burna Boy’s Higher and several records for Seyi Vibez, including the hit single Different Pattern. As the music scientist, he claims he is, his expertise in making innovative, sonically rich beats has set him on a smooth path, making him one of the highly sought-after Afrobeats producers in recent times.
With over 182 production credits, Dibs has amassed an impressive 1.1 billion streams across digital streaming platforms and over 4.5 million Shazams. As he continues to contribute to shaping the sonic direction of Afrobeats, his influence is only set to grow, making him a standout producer to watch in 2025 and beyond.
4. OG Sterling
Llona’s debut album, Homeless, has been widely regarded as one of the strongest contenders for Album of the Year in 2024. While this perception has sparked considerable debate, it remains a valid argument given the album’s artistic depth and impact. However, great albums do not come together on their own, they are shaped by the creative minds behind the scenes. From a production standpoint, OG Sterling played a pivotal role in bringing Homeless to life, serving as one of the album’s key architects.
OG Sterling contributed significantly to the project, producing multiple standout tracks, including Another Day, Cold War featuring Fave, Still Scared, Billion Paper, and Forgive Me. His ability to bring out the essence of an artist’s vision has made him a sought-after producer in 2024.
Beyond his work on Homeless, OG Sterling boasts an impressive production portfolio, with credits spanning across a diverse range of artists, including Magixx, Savage, The Compozers, Monaky, King Perryy, Attifaya, Oladapo, and more.
5. 7TEENTRILL
7TEENTRILL is one talented record producer and artist who has been trying to make a name for himself in the music industry. He played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Ayo Maff’s acclaimed debut EP, MAFFIAN, contributing as a key producer on tracks such as 7 Lives and Last Week. His expertise also extends to Zerry DL’s Find Money featuring Ayo Maff, where his catchy production is commendable.
As a rising producer and artist, 7TEENTRILL has consistently demonstrated immense potential, delivering a series of impressive works throughout the past year. With his talent and growing portfolio, he is undoubtedly one to look out for this year.
6. Bassiqally
Tracks like Ayo Maff’s Dealer and Fireboy DML’s Iseoluwa were among the songs which brought imense joy to fans last year. The production behind these standout songs can be credited to none other than Bassiqally.
Born Abubaye, Bassiqally has been a familiar name in the Nigerian music production scene for the past three years. With an impressive portfolio that includes hit records such as Dealer, Iseoluwa, and Obaa Sima, he has steadily built a reputation as one of the industry’s promising and innovative producers.
Bassiqally’s impact is evident in the quality of his work and also in the numbers, his works have amassed over 107 million streams across digital streaming platforms, with more than 12 production credits to his name.
7. Jimohsoundz
Jimohsoundz, born Olaoluwa Emmanuel Jimoh, has done well to display the talent he possesses in the music scene, earning recognition for his exceptional work with artists such as Odumodublvck, Bella Shmurda, and others.
His production credits include notable tracks such as Blood on the Dancefloor by Odumodublvck, Bloody Civilian, and Wale, as well as Picanto by Odumodublvck, Zlatan, and Ecko Miles. Additionally, he was behind the production of Lagos City by Bella Shmurda.
With a growing catalogue of impressive productions, Jimohsoundz continues to create his place as one of the industry’s promising record producers. His ability to fuse diverse sounds and create dynamic instrumentals positions him as one of the guys shaping the future of contemporary Afrobeats.
8. SB ThaProducer (Oluwole Daramola Ebenezer)
FOLA who emerged in 2024 as one of the most promising rising artists in the Afrobeats scene has had a significant part of his success attributed to the exceptional production work of Oluwole Daramola Ebenezer, professionally known as SB ThaProducer. The synergy between FOLA and SB ThaProducer is remarkable, it’s a partnership that feels almost destined.
This chemistry is most evident in Alone and its remix featuring Bella Shmurda, a track that has deeply resonated with fans across Nigeria and stands as FOLA’s most successful release to date. Beyond this song, SB ThaProducer has played an instrumental role in shaping FOLA’s sound, having produced the majority of his catalogue, including songs like Who Does That and Bye Bye, among others.
With a consistent track record of delivering high-quality production, SB ThaProducer continues to keep his reputation as a key force behind FOLA’s career. He is one guy to look out for in 2025, he has incredible potential and a lot to offer.
9. Cross
Cross has been a key contributor to ODUMODUBLVCK’s projects in recent times, working on standout tracks such as MC OLUOMO and NOT ALL THAT, among others. As a frequent collaborator, his influence has been integral to the OD’s sound.
Beyond his work with ODUMODUBLVCK, Cross boasts an impressive portfolio with production credits for industry heavyweights such as Don Jazzy, Black Sherif, and acts like Reeplay, Psycho YP, Yung Willis, Eeskay, and more. Having spent years honing his craft behind the scenes, 2025 might just mark a turning point in his career.
10. Nxrth
Nxrth is steadily carving out a name for himself as one of the most promising producers in the Afrobeats scene, recognized for his fresh and distinctive sound. His contributions to Fireboy DML’s critically acclaimed fourth studio album adedamola were particularly noteworthy, having produced tracks such as Iseoluwa, Back n Forth, Obaa Simma, and Hell & Back.
Beyond his work on Adedamola, Nxrth has an impressive catalogue of records that further prove his quality. As he continues to make his a presence felt in the industry, he is one of the record producers with a promising future.
In conclusion, as the music industry evolves, new producers and fresh sounds continue to emerge, shaping and redefining Afrobeats. The ten producers highlighted have already made a significant impact in recent years and have the potential for an even greater 2025.
However, this list is by no means exhaustive, as numerous talented producers are steadily making their mark. Emerging names like Spykida and Ice Boi Beatz are also carving out their space in the industry, contributing to the genre’s ever-expanding landscape. As Afrobeats continues to grow, these producers—and many others—will play a crucial role in its evolution. In that case, keep an eye on these guys because they’ll be proving themselves in 2025 and beyond.