The Nigerian music industry is experiencing remarkable growth and gaining international recognition, propelled by artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido. Yet, the tireless efforts of numerous influential women behind the scenes are instrumental in fostering this global appreciation for Nigerian music.
Grace Ladoja – Managing Skepta
Grace Ladoja, a prominent figure in the UK media landscape, is renowned for her leadership and innovation. She’s not only the mastermind behind the Our Homecoming festival in Lagos, a convergence of music, fashion, sports, and arts, but also manages Skepta, the celebrated Nigerian-British artist. In 2018, her contributions to music were honored with an MBE by the Prince of Wales.
Mariam Aduke – Guiding Joeboy’s Career
Mariam Aduke, a former pipeline engineer turned entertainment industry entrepreneur, steers the career of rising star Joeboy. After the collapse of her engineering firm, she founded Malc Agency, exclusively staffed by women. Her agency not only nurtures talents like Joeboy but also facilitates brand partnerships, ensuring artists receive their due recognition and compensation. Recently, Mariam was recognized among the elite Nigerian music professionals inducted into the Grammy Recording Academy Class of 2023.
Elizabeth Sobowale – Overseeing Adekunle Gold
Elizabeth Sobowale, a seasoned professional with a background in public relations, manages Adekunle Gold while also serving as a program director at the Music Business Academy for Africa. Through her consulting firm, Brand & Stitch, and her role at MBA Africa, she’s committed to expanding the creative business landscape.
Nikita Chauhan – Empowering Show Dem Camp
Nikita Chauhan, an Asian music executive and founder of Translate.nc, champions the careers of African artists like Show Dem Camp and Guiltybeatz through her talent management and strategic marketing company. Her achievements include being listed among the distinguished 2023 Grammy Recording Academy inductees.
Bose Ogulu — Nurturing Burna Boy and Nissi
Bose Ogulu, fondly known as Mama Burna, is a multifaceted Nigerian academic, businesswoman, and talent manager. She’s been instrumental in shaping the careers of her son Burna Boy and daughter Nissi, garnering numerous accolades for their achievements. With a rich family heritage in music management, Bose brings a wealth of experience and linguistic prowess to her role.
Kimani Moore – Managing Odunsi the Engine and Larry Gaaga
Kimani Moore’s impact in the Nigerian music industry is profound, evidenced by her adept management of artists like Odunsi the Engine and Larry Gaaga, earning her widespread respect and trust within the industry.
Isioma Nwaroucha – Guiding Young Jonn
Isioma Nwaroucha, a pivotal member of the Chocolate City Group, serves as the Head of Promotions and manages Young Jonn, a versatile record producer turned artist. Her expertise in promotions and artist development contributes significantly to shaping Young Jonn’s sound and public image.
Amadi-Ogbonna Vanessa – Steering Tiwa Savage’s Career
Amadi-Ogbonna Vanessa is a key figure in the music business, particularly for her management of Afrobeats sensation Tiwa Savage. Her impressive portfolio includes associations with global icons like Beyoncé and Nicki Minaj, along with organizing successful events like Davido’s sold-out performance at the O2 Arena in 2019.
Morin Oluwatobi – Managing Blaqbonez
Morin Oluwatobi, a computer science graduate, plays a vital role in the Nigerian hip-hop scene through her management of Blaqbonez, an emerging artist under the Chocolate City label.
Jada Pollock – Spearheading Wizkid’s Global Success
Jada Pollock has earned widespread recognition in the Nigerian music industry for her instrumental role in steering the international success of Afrobeats icon Wizkid. Her adept management skills have also been showcased in her work with renowned acts like Chris Brown and Pia Mia.
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