Nigerian artists have always released timeless albums and monumental music, but the self-titled albums are some of our favorites. In this article, we rank some of our favorite self-titled albums, and conceptualising an album title or trying to name a work of art can be surprisingly difficult most times, but these artists were able to do it successfully.
- “Ayo” By Wizkid
Titled after his birth given name, this 2014 sophomore studio album by Wizkid features some of the greatest hits from the Afrobeat legend. Songs like “Ojuelegba,” “On Top Your Matter,” and “Joy,” were a part of the 19 track album and have continued to be mentioned as some of the biggest and beloved Afrobeat tracks. Wizkid is no stranger to introducing a new sound to the Nigerian industry, and this album was no different. It is ranked at number 1 on our list.
- “Aja” or “Asa” By Asa
Released in 2007, this is the critically acclaimed studio debut and breakthrough album by legendary Nigerian soul singer, Asa. The album features timeless hits and classics like “Fire on the mountain,” and “Jailer.” While Asa has gone on to make more monumental music, the tracks on this album still remain some of our favorites from her musical discography. This ranks at number 2 on our list due to how timeless most of the tracks on the album are and how it created a new era for soul music in Nigeria.
- Fela Kuti” By Fela Kuti
Released in 1995, this is the third album by the legendary Nigerian singer who is often credited for being the godfather of Afrobeats. It achieved many milestones in its time, one of them being that it was included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. The album included some of the biggest Fela tracks like “ Survival,” “Nawa,” “Plenty Nonsense” and “No Shame.” It ranks number 3 on our list for its versatility and timelessness, with it still being a relevant mention almost three decades later.
- “Olamide” By Olamide
At number 4 on our rankings, this 2025 17-track album by Olamide was released as the 11th studio album by the rapper. Olamide’s discography as an artist is one that has revolutionized the rap industry in Nigeria, and this album was no different with features from artists like Dr Dre, Wizkid, Asake, and Seyi Vibez. This album introduced a new era of rap music, and for us, it showed the growth of Olamide’s artistry.
- “Love, Damini” By Burna Boy
“Love, Damini” was released in 2022 and is still regarded as one of the best albums from Burna Boy itself, and was named after his given name “Damini”, and released on his 32nd birthday. This project was the best birthday present the singer gave to his fans and it explored diverse collaborations from artists like Ed Sheeran, J Balvin, Khalid, Victony, and J Hus and features some of his biggest global tracks like “Last Last” and “Kilometre.” It ranks 5th on our list due to how sonically diverse and unique it was.
- “Simisola” By Simi
Simi’s second studio album “Simisola” has continued to receive praise even 10 years after its release in 2017. One of the most beloved aspects of Simi’s artistry is the creativity and versatility that is present in all of her music and this was no different, making it win the “Album of The Year” and get nominated for Best R&B/Pop album at the 2018 Headiest Award. It ranks number 6 on our list for carrying our favorite tracks from Simi, like “Joromi,” “Don’t Care,” and “Smile For Me.”
- “Adedamola” By Fireboy
Although no album from Fireboy can top his debut 13 track album, this 2024 album comes close to it. The album features legends like Seun Kuti, and Lagbaja, it is also his fourth studio album, and features tracks like “Iseoluwa,” “Ready” and “Everyday,” it ranks 7th on our list and is the perfect pop and Afrobeats album.
