Music is full of surprises. Sometimes your favorite song has a secret ingredient you never noticed. Nigerian music has been quietly feeding into hits around the world for decades. Artists sample old Afrobeat classics, highlife gems, Nollywood soundtracks, or even international songs to create something new.
However, here’s the thing – most people are unaware. They’ll sing along to a track without knowing it was built on the foundation of a Nigerian song from the 70s or 80s. The original artists often go uncredited, their contributions hidden in the mix.
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain. These are the Nigerian songs that laid the groundwork for bigger hits. You’ve probably heard them a thousand times without connecting the dots. Some will surprise you. Others might make you go, “I knew that sounded familiar!”
Ready to discover the Nigerian DNA in your playlist? Let’s dig in.
“Keep on Keepin’ On”, MC Lyte ft. Xscape (1996) / Reworked in “Sakomo,” The Remedies (1997)
MC Lyte’s catchy anthem ruled the airwaves in the mid-90s with its silky production and memorable hook. But this American hit found fresh life across the Atlantic. The talented Nigerian trio The Remedies took that irresistible melody and made it their own.
Their groundbreaking track “Sakomo” borrowed the sweet chorus, with the hook written by Jazz Man Olofin as shared by Ayo Shonaiya in a recent podcast. This clever adaptation helped shape the exciting sound of modern Afrobeats, proving that great music crosses all boundaries.
“Ngiyakusaba”, Brenda Fassie / transformed in “All Eyez on Me”, AKA featuring Burna Boy, J.R. and Da L.E.S
Brenda Fassie was South Africa’s fearless pop queen, known for her electrifying performances and rebellious spirit. Her upbeat track “Ngiyakusaba” sparkled with infectious energy and bright synthesizers. Years later, South African rapper AKA and Nigerian superstar Burna Boy gave this bubbly classic a dramatic makeover.
They crafted a hard-hitting rap anthem that connected Johannesburg’s gritty streets with Lagos’ vibrant music scene. The original’s joyful essence still shines through the powerful new arrangement.
“Opon Apala Ti Sun”, Musiliu Ishola / honored in “Rodo”, Adekunle Gold
Traditional Nigerian music is experiencing a beautiful revival as young artists embrace their rich cultural roots. Musiliu Ishola stands as the undisputed master of Apala, a rhythmic Yoruba genre filled with intricate percussion and soulful vocals.
His magnificent composition “Opon Apala Ti Sun” showcases the genre’s incredible depth. Rising star Adekunle Gold pays respectful tribute to this legendary track in his smooth hit “Rodo,” weaving classic vocal phrases into his modern Afropop sound.
“So Into You”, Tamia / reimagined in “You4Me”, Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage’s romantic masterpiece “You4Me” captures hearts with its tender lyrics and graceful delivery. The track draws inspiration from Tamia’s silky R&B classic, borrowing its dreamy melody to create instant emotional connection.
This brilliant musical choice adds warm nostalgia to Tiwa’s contemporary love song, making listeners feel both familiar comfort and fresh excitement.
“California Love”, 2Pac featuring Dr. Dre / echoed in “Veteran”, Boj featuring Blanco
The legendary “California Love” defined West Coast hip-hop with its funky talk-box sound and undeniable swagger. That distinctive robotic vocal effect became the signature sound of an entire era.
Nigerian alternative artist BOJ and British rapper Blanco captured that same electric energy in their collaborative track “Veteran.” While not a direct copy, their clever homage recreates the original’s confident vibe and futuristic sound.
The post These Nigerian Songs Were Sampled, But You Probably Missed It appeared first on Nigerian Entertainment Today.
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