Afrobeats is more than a genre—it’s a cultural movement that has taken the global music scene by storm. Afrobeats has transcended borders with its vibrant energy, resonating with diverse audiences across continents. The genre’s pulsating drum patterns, rich melodies, and infectious rhythms are the lifeblood of this global phenomenon. At the heart of this success are the visionary Afrobeats producers who breathe life into each track, turning sound into an experience.
Afrobeats producers are not just beatmakers; they are storytellers. They weave together elements of traditional African music with modern genres like hip-hop, dancehall, and EDM to create a sound that is distinctly Afrobeats. Their ability to innovate while staying rooted in cultural authenticity is what makes them stand out. From underground hits to international anthems, these producers have been instrumental in shaping the soundscape of Africa’s most prominent cultural export.
The rise of Afrobeats on the global stage has brought newfound recognition to its producers. These creative geniuses now work with top international artists, blending Afrocentric sounds with global pop influences. This collaboration has expanded the reach of Afrobeats and elevated the profiles of Afrobeats producers, cementing their place as key players in the global music industry.
As the genre continues to evolve, the role of Afrobeats producers remains pivotal. They are the architects of the beats that make us dance, celebrate, and connect. With their innovative soundscapes and relentless creativity, they are ensuring that Afrobeats remains a dynamic force in the ever-changing world of music. Their contributions have turned Afrobeats into more than just a genre—it’s a movement, a global soundtrack, and a celebration of African artistry.
The Rise of Afrobeats and Its Producers
Afrobeats has evolved from its vibrant roots in Nigeria and Ghana to become a global cultural phenomenon. The genre’s unique fusion of traditional African sounds with contemporary music styles has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. This remarkable evolution owes much to the creativity and innovation of Afrobeats producers, who continue to push boundaries with every beat they craft. These producers are the driving force behind the genre’s growing appeal, ensuring its resonance across diverse audiences.
The foundation of Afrobeats lies in its rich history and cultural influences. Drawing from Afrobeat—a pioneering movement led by the legendary Fela Kuti—the genre incorporates elements of funk, jazz, and traditional African rhythms. Over time, Afrobeats producers have infused these roots with modern genres like hip-hop, dancehall, and electronic music. This seamless blend has created a dynamic sound that speaks to both tradition and modernity, making it universally relatable.
The Evolutionary Role of Afrobeats Producers
What sets Afrobeats apart is its ability to evolve while maintaining its core identity. Afrobeats producers are at the forefront of this evolution, experimenting with new sounds and technologies to keep the genre fresh. From amapiano-infused beats to global pop collaborations, they are continuously innovating, ensuring that Afrobeats stays relevant in the ever-changing music landscape. Their adaptability and vision have been key to the genre’s international success.
Today, Afrobeats is more than just a regional sound—it is a global movement. Its rise to prominence on international platforms, from award shows to global charts, is a testament to the hard work and creativity of Afrobeats producers. These trailblazers are not only shaping the genre’s future but also solidifying its place in the global music industry as a powerhouse of culture and creativity.
Afrobeats producers are pivotal in creating the hits that dominate streaming platforms, nightclubs, and award shows. Their ability to blend traditional African sounds with modern trends makes them indispensable. Let’s dive into the key players shaping Afrobeats in 2025.
Top Afrobeats Producers 2025
- Pheelz (Phillip Kayode Moses)
- Sarz (Osabuohien Osaretin)
- Kel-P (Udoma Peter Kelvin Amba)
- Rexxie (Ezeh Chisom Faith)
- Tempoe (Michael Alagwu)
- Blaise Beatz (Marcel Akunwata)
- London (Michael Ovie Hunter)
- Masterkraft (Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke)
- Young Jonn (Udomboso John Saviours)
1. Pheelz (Phillip Kayode Moses)
Why He’s Influential
Pheelz, born Phillip Kayode Moses on June 5, 1994, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a renowned record producer, singer, and songwriter. He began his musical journey as a child, singing and playing keyboards in his father’s church. His career gained significant traction in 2012 after producing hits for Olamide, notably contributing to the album “Baddest Guy Ever Liveth.”
Over the years, Pheelz has developed a distinctive style by blending Afrobeat with pop, soul, and electronic influences. His innovative sound design is evident in chart-topping tracks like “Finesse,” a 2022 collaboration with Bnxn (formerly known as Buju), which garnered international
Career Highlights
- Starting as an in-house producer for YBNL Nation, Pheelz quickly gained recognition for producing hits for Olamide.
- His debut as a singer-producer with “Finesse” featuring BNXN (formerly Buju) showcased his versatility.
Notable Hits
- “Finesse” featuring BNXN
- “Wayward Girl” by Fireboy DML
Achievements in 2025
Pheelz has been instrumental in bridging the gap between Afrobeats and global pop culture. His recent collaborations with international artists and his continued success in producing for Nigerian stars make him a standout.
2. Sarz (Osabuohien Osaretin)
Why He’s Influential
Sarz, born Osabuohien Osaretin on March 17, 1989, in Benin City, Nigeria, is a distinguished record producer and musician renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and innovative soundscapes. His career gained prominence in 2010 with the production of Jahbless’s hit single “Jor Oh,” which won “Best Street Hop” at The Headies.
Over the years, Sarz has been instrumental in shaping the Afrobeats movement, collaborating with top artists like Wizkid, with whom he produced tracks such as “Beat of Life (Samba)” and “Dance Go (Eau de Vie).” His unique ability to blend traditional African rhythms with contemporary genres has solidified his status as a household name synonymous with quality production in the music industry.
Career Highlights
- Early collaborations with Wizkid and Wande Coal established him as a force in the industry.
- His experimental “Trobul” EP with Wurld received critical acclaim for its fusion of electronic music and Afrobeats.
Notable Hits
- “Mad” with Wurld
- “Come Closer” by Wizkid featuring Drake
Achievements in 2025
In 2025, Sarz continues to innovate by incorporating live instrumentation and traditional African rhythms into his productions. His collaborations with emerging artists ensure that he remains a trendsetter.
3. Kel-P (Udoma Peter Kelvin Amba)
Why He’s Influential
Kel-P, whose real name is Udoma Peter Kelvin Amba, is a Nigerian music producer and songwriter known for his unique “Kel-P Vibes” sound. He gained recognition for co-producing Burna Boy’s Grammy-nominated album African Giant in 2019.
Beyond his work with Burna Boy, Kel-P has collaborated with artists like Wizkid, producing tracks on the Grammy-nominated Made in Lagos (Deluxe Edition), and Angélique Kidjo, co-producing her Grammy-winning album Mother Nature.
Career Highlights
- Worked closely with Burna Boy, producing multiple hits on his Grammy-winning albums.
- Produced for international artists, showcasing the versatility of Afrobeats.
Notable Hits
- “Anybody” by Burna Boy
- “Own It” by Stormzy featuring Burna Boy and Ed Sheeran
Achievements in 2025
Kel-P’s work in 2025 focuses on creating cross-genre collaborations that blend Afrobeats with EDM, R&B, and reggae. His influence is felt across continents.
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4. Rexxie (Ezeh Chisom Faith)
Why He’s Influential
Rexxie, born Ezeh Chisom Faith on November 10, 1994, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a renowned music producer and songwriter. He is celebrated for creating the Zanku sound, a vibrant subgenre of Afrobeats that mirrors the energy of Nigeria’s streets.
His collaborations with artists like Naira Marley on tracks such as “Soapy” and “Tesumole” have become anthems, showcasing his talent for crafting beats that resonate both locally and internationally.
Rexxie’s work has earned him multiple awards, including ‘Best Producer of the Year’ at the 2020 City People Entertainment Awards and the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival.
Career Highlights
- Rexxie’s breakout moment came with the hit “Able God” featuring Chinko Ekun, Zlatan, and Lil Kesh.
- Known for popularizing the Zanku sound and amapiano-infused Afrobeats.
Notable Hits
- “KPK (Ko Por Ke)” featuring Mohbad
- “Abracadabra” featuring Naira Marley
Achievements in 2025
Rexxie continues to push boundaries by merging amapiano with Afrobeats. His production on club anthems and street hits ensures his dominance in the industry.
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5. Tempoe (Michael Alagwu)
Why He’s Influential
Tempoe, born Michael Chigozie Alagwu, is a Nigerian music producer known for his minimalist and catchy beats. His signature tag, “MÄD!”, is heard at the beginning or end of his productions.
He has collaborated with artists like CKay, producing the global hit “Love Nwantiti,” and Omah Lay, producing “Godly.” His clean and singable beats have made him a favorite among Afrobeats artists and fans.
For more insight into Tempoe’s journey and music production approach, you might find this interview informative: Tempoe’s journey
Career Highlights
- Gained recognition for producing “Holy Father” by Mayorkun featuring Victony.
- Collaborated with Fireboy DML on multiple tracks.
Notable Hits
- “Peru” by Fireboy DML
- “Holy Father” by Mayorkun featuring Victony
Achievements in 2025
Tempoe’s work in 2025 includes producing for Nollywood soundtracks and crafting hits that dominate streaming platforms. His minimalist style continues to evolve.
6. Blaise Beatz (Marcel Akunwata)
Why He’s Influential
Blaise Beatz, born Marcel Larry Akunwata, is a Nigerian music producer celebrated for his tagline, “It’s Blaise on the beat, baby.” His feel-good vibes and skillful balance of rhythm and melody have made him a sought-after producer in the Afro-pop scene.
He has collaborated with top artists, producing hits like “Pami” by DJ Tunez featuring Wizkid, Omah Lay, and Adekunle Gold, and “Enjoy” by Tekno. His work has earned him recognition, including winning the Afro Highlife Producer of the Year and Afro Dancehall Producer of the Year at The Beatz Awards in 2022.
Career Highlights
- Worked with stars like Simi, Adekunle Gold, and Tekno.
- Renowned for his versatility, producing everything from party anthems to love ballads.
Notable Hits
- “Lie” by Kizz Daniel
- “Something Different” by Adekunle Gold
Achievements in 2025
Blaise Beatz is at the top of his game in 2025, producing hits that dominate airwaves and playlists. His unique sound keeps him relevant in the ever-evolving Afrobeats scene.
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7. London (Michael Ovie Hunter)
Why He’s Influential
London, born Michael Ovie Hunter, is a Nigerian music producer renowned for his polished and modern sound. His work has been instrumental in shaping the careers of artists like Rema and Ayra Starr under Mavin Records.
He served as the executive producer on Rema’s debut studio album, Rave & Roses, producing 14 out of 16 tracks. London’s collaborations with Ayra Starr include the hit single “Pinacolada,” released in August 2024, which also features American rapper 6lack.
Career Highlights
- Played a significant role in shaping Rema’s sound, contributing to his global success.
- Worked extensively with Ayra Starr, producing some of her biggest hits.
Notable Hits
- “Soundgasm” by Rema
- “Bloody Samaritan” by Ayra Starr
Achievements in 2025
In 2025, London continues to craft hits for Mavin Records artists while branching out into international collaborations. His ability to innovate ensures his spot among the best.
8. Masterkraft (Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke)
Why He’s Influential
Masterkraft, born Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke, is a renowned Nigerian record producer, disc jockey, band director, pianist, and songwriter. His versatility spans genres such as highlife, afrobeat, gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, and amapiano. He began his professional music career with Kennis Music and has collaborated with numerous artists, including Flavour N’abania, Bracket, Banky W., Sound Sultan, Timaya, Lynxxx, M.I, and J. Martins. Some of his notable production hits include “Fine Lady” by Lynxxx featuring Wizkid, “Kwarikwa (Remix)” by Flavour N’abania featuring Fally Ipupa, “Girl” by Bracket featuring Wizkid, “Chinny Baby” by Flavour N’abania, and “Jasi” by Banky W.
Throughout his career, Masterkraft has received significant recognition for his contributions to the Nigerian music industry. Leadership newspaper ranked him 8th on its 2014 list of the Top 10 Music Producers in Nigeria. In August 2015, Nigeria Entertainment Today ranked him 7th on its list of Nigeria’s Top 7 Biggest Music Producers at the Moment. Thisday newspaper also listed him as one of its Top 10 Music Producers in Nigeria.
Career Highlights
- Produced classic hits for artists like Flavour, Wizkid, and Phyno.
- Known for his signature ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary music.
Notable Hits
- “Finally” by Masterkraft featuring Flavour
- “Yapa” featuring CDQ and Reekado Banks
Achievements in 2025
Masterkraft remains a dominant force in 2025, producing evergreen tracks and mentoring the next generation of producers. His legacy is cemented as one of the greats.
9. Young Jonn (Udomboso John Saviours)
Why He’s Influential
Young Jonn, born John Saviours Udomboso on February 16, 1995, in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a prominent music producer and artist known as “The Wicked Producer.” His playful yet intricate beats have become instant hits, resonating with both fans and artists.
He has collaborated with top Nigerian artists, producing chart-topping tracks like Olamide’s “Story for the Gods” and Lil Kesh’s “Efejoku.” His versatility across genres, including Afro-pop and hip-hop, has solidified his reputation in the music industry.
Career Highlights
- Rose to fame with hits for Olamide and the YBNL Nation crew.
- Transitioned successfully from producer to artist, showing his versatility.
Notable Hits
- “Story for the Gods” by Olamide
- “Mama” by Kiss Daniel
Achievements in 2025
Young Jonn continues to shine as both a producer and artist, delivering hits that captivate audiences. His dual role keeps him at the forefront of the industry.
Final Thoughts
Afrobeats producers are the unsung heroes of the genre’s global success. These nine individuals have proven their ability to innovate and dominate in 2025. Whether you’re a fan or an artist, keeping an eye on their work is essential. As Afrobeats continues to evolve, these producers will undoubtedly shape its future.