Nigeria’s music industry is vibrant and diverse, home to a range of talents who have taken the world by storm with their unique sounds. While many Nigerian musicians are self-taught or honed their skills through experience, some have taken the formal route of studying music academically.
These artists have combined their passion with education to produce music that resonates on a deeper level, demonstrating a strong understanding of musical theory, composition, and performance. Here, Naijassador takes a look at five Nigerian musicians who have pursued formal education in music.
1. Cobhams Asuquo
Cobhams Asuquo is one of Nigeria’s most respected musicians, composers, and producers. Born visually impaired, he didn’t let his disability define him. Instead, he developed an extraordinary talent for music from a young age. Cobhams studied music at the prestigious University of Lagos, where he delved into various aspects of the discipline, honing his skills in composition, production, and performance.
His formal education in music has been instrumental in shaping his career. He is the mastermind behind some of Nigeria’s biggest hits, including songs by Asa, Banky W, and Timi Dakolo. His understanding of music theory and composition has allowed him to create complex, emotive soundscapes that stand out in the Nigerian music industry. In addition to his work in Nigeria, the famous songwriter has collaborated with international artists, further establishing his reputation as a global musical talent.
2. Asa (Bukola Elemide)
Asa, born Bukola Elemide, is a Nigerian-French singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences with her soulful voice and deeply reflective lyrics. Asa’s love for music was evident from a young age, and she pursued this passion academically. After her family moved to France, she enrolled at the IMFP (Institut Musical de Formation Professionnelle) in Marseille, where she studied jazz and contemporary music.
Her formal training provided her with a solid foundation in music theory, arrangement, and performance, which is evident in her work. Her music is a fusion of pop, jazz, and soul, often drawing on her Nigerian roots to create a unique sound. Her debut album, “Asa,” released in 2007, was a critical and commercial success, earning her widespread recognition and several awards. Asa’s music continues to be celebrated for its depth, emotion, and technical precision, much of which can be attributed to her formal music education.
3. Lindsey Abudei
Lindsey Abudei is an alternative soul singer and songwriter known for her distinct voice and emotive delivery. She started her musical journey by joining her university choir and later pursued formal music education. Lindsey initially studied law at the University of Jos and upon graduation pursued her desire in music.
Her music is a blend of soul, jazz, and alternative rock, and she is known for her introspective lyrics and minimalist production. Her formal education has influenced her approach to music, allowing her to create songs that are both technically sound and emotionally resonant. Her debut album, “…And the Bass Is Queen,” received critical acclaim for its originality and depth, setting her apart as one of Nigeria’s most intriguing musical talents.
4. Darey Art Alade
Darey Art Alade, popularly known as Darey, is a Nigerian musician, singer-songwriter, and media personality with a career that spans over two decades. Music runs in his blood, as he is the son of the legendary Nigerian entertainer, Art Alade. Darey pursued formal music education at the University of Lagos, where he studied Creative Arts with a focus on Music.
Darey’s formal education provided him with a deep understanding of music theory, composition, and performance, which has been evident in his music career. He gained prominence with his debut album, “From Me 2 U,” which showcased his versatility across different genres, from R&B to Afrobeat. Darey is also known for his live performances, which are often praised for their musical sophistication and professionalism, a testament to his solid educational background.
5. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage is a name synonymous with Nigerian music. Before becoming one of Africa’s biggest female music stars, Tiwa Savage pursued formal education in music. She studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, one of the most prestigious music schools in the world. There, she specialized in professional music and vocal performance.
Tiwa’s education at Berklee gave her a strong foundation in music theory, vocal techniques, and stage performance, which she has skillfully incorporated into her career. After graduating, Tiwa worked as a backup vocalist for international stars like George Michael and Mary J. Blige before returning to Nigeria to launch her solo career. Her formal training is evident in her polished vocal delivery and her ability to seamlessly blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop into her music. Hits like “Kele Kele Love,” “All Over,” and “Koroba” highlight her versatility and technical prowess.
Conclusion
These five Nigerian musicians have demonstrated that formal education in music can significantly enhance an artist’s ability to create and perform.
Their academic backgrounds have provided them with a deep understanding of music, allowing them to produce work that is both innovative and technically sound. As the Nigerian music industry continues to grow, these artists stand out not just for their talent, but for their dedication to mastering the craft through formal education.
