3 Nigerian artistes who started with a group but later went solo
Many solo artists today began their musical careers as members of a certain band/group. Upon the disbandment of most groups, a few launched successful solo careers and have continued to thrive.
Here are 3 artists who began their musical journey as members of a group.
2baba
The mid-’90s saw the emergence of refreshing new musical groups with 2baba’s Plantashaun Boyz being one of them. Plantashaun Boyz consisted of Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo (popularly known as Blackface), Innocent Ujah Idibia ( 2baba himself), and Chibuzor Orji (Best known as Faze).
The group, was formed while the trio were students at the Enugu Institute of Management and Technology, and in 2004, disbanded. All 3 went on to launch impressive solo careers to varying success with 2baba garnering the most success with hit records like “African Queen,” collaborations with some of the best in the business, and snagging multiple awards locally and internationally to celebrate his genius.
Rhema/RNA Group
Jonzing World act Rhema was part of the musical group RNA group which houses talented act Alpha P. The duo made waves with their songs before finally snagging a deal with Peak Entertainment then moved on to release their first single titled ‘Mercy.’
Both acts went on to pursue solo careers upon relocating to Nigeria with Alpha P signing a deal with universal music Group and Rhema catching the attention of D Prince who signed him to his label Jonzing World a subsidiary of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records.
Since signing the new deal, Rhema has gone on to amass massive success, garnering major traction for his breakout single ”Dumebi.” In 2022, he released his first project ‘Rave & Roses’ which has top international acts like Chris Brown, 6lack amongst others on it.
Wizkid
Starboy as he is fondly called has been in the music business since the age of 11 which is the year he released an album with his group ”The Glorious Five (5),” these were his church friends formed.
After the group broke up, Wizkid went on to attain major success. In 2009, he signed a record deal with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment where he released multiple hit records and albums.
Wizkid exited EME in 2013, he continued to amass major success, collaborating with some of the greatest in the industry including multi-grammy-award winner Beyonce. Today Wizkid has won several international awards including Grammy, for his work with Beyonce on the song ”Brown Skin Girl,” Billboard music Awards, amongst others.
