Top Picks: Soundpool’s Top Projects of 2023

The rhythmic cadence of 2023 in the music world was not just a mere passage of time; it was an unfolding saga that urged us to reassess our musical compass.....

In a year when traditions faced disruption, the resilient heartbeat of the music industry emerged as a guiding force. Artistes, both seasoned and rising, showcased virtual personas that transcended expectations, etching a new chapter in the sonic tapestry of our time.

Amidst the stellar releases from industry giants like Rema, Davido, and Burna Boy, 2023 ushered in a fresh wave of musical luminaries. Lifesize Teddy and Bloody Civilian, rap revolutionaries like Odumodublvck, and the R&B innovators Tim Lyre, Kold AF, and Winny collectively illuminated the musical landscape with their distinctive sounds. 

The musical tapestry of 2023 unfolded with a plethora of diverse projects resonating across global audiences. Soundpool, as a discerning subset of music lovers, has meticulously curated a list of their top projects in 2023. These selections consider factors like production quality, songwriting prowess, thematic depth, hit potential, and influence across streaming platforms.

Here are the standout projects that have graced our ears and minds:

Lifesize Teddy - "Lifesize Teddy"

Hailing from the vibrant city of Port-Harcourt, Lifesize Teddy, Mavin Records’ latest sensation, injected fresh air into the label. Discovered by the visionary Don Jazzy after a captivating performance as Ladipoe’s opening act in December 2018, Lifesize Teddy’s self-titled EP encapsulates a multi-dimensional journey. Seamlessly blending Hip-Hop, Dancehall, and a psychedelic twist on Nigerian pop, her buttery vocals and relatable messages mark an exhilarating chapter, breaking through conventional boundaries.

Bloody Civilian - "Anger Management"

In the intricate symphony of genres like EDM, Amapiano, Synth-Pop, and Afrobeats, Bloody Civilian, she emerged as a force in 2022. Her EP, “Anger Management,” is a musical exploration delving into Feminism, Capitalism, Hedonism, Substance Abuse, Self Identity, and Family interventions. Her triple-threat prowess as a singer, songwriter, and producer elevates this EP into a testament to creative mastery.

Odumodublvck - "Eziokwu"

ODUMODUBLVCK_

Signed to Native Records in partnership with Def Jam in 2022, Odumodublvck’s journey took flight with the chart-busting “Picanto.” “Eziokwu,” meaning “The truth,” unveils authenticity through resonant baritone tales, weaving gritty life narratives, navigating Nigeria’s complex systems, and an unwavering quest for success. Odumodublvck’s artistry seamlessly blends traditional sounds with contemporary beats, crafting a cultural tapestry that resonates deeply.

Tim Lyre - "Masta"

Tim Lyre (1) (1) (1)

Hailing from the heart of Lagos, Tim Lyre, an enigmatic producer-artiste, presents ‘MASTA,’ an exceptional EP blending Hip Hop, Dancehall, Amapiano, R&B, and Afrobeats. His cultural dexterity shines, capturing the essence of both his hometown and adopted home. A pivotal figure in Nigeria’s alternative music scene, Tim Lyre seamlessly blends the radicalism of the new wave with a commitment to crafting people-centred music that exudes peace and comfort.

Kold AF - "Kollide"

Embarking on her musical journey in 2022, Kold AF, an Afro-fusion singer, showcases genre-bending prowess in her EP ‘KOLLIDE.’ This self-dubbed “Afro-Fusion” sound is a testament to her ability to fuse Afrobeats, Soul, Dancehall, and R&B, offering a glimpse of her disruptive potential.

Winny - "Winny"

Winny_

Originating from Benin, Winny, also known as Winifred Ohili Adanu, captivates with her Dancehall-inspired patois delivery. Her self-titled EP ‘Winny’ unfolds as a testament to her vocal dynamo, blending originality and vulnerability rarely found in Nigerian pop. Since her debut with “Pretty” last year, Winny has gradually enchanted audiences with melodic tunes, visually appealing presentations, and a distinctive fashion sense.

Psycho YP - "Osapa London"

PsychoYP

“Osapa London” is YP’s authentic link to Afrobeats enthusiasts, grounded in relatable, homegrown elements. PsychoYP stands out with sophisticated lyricism and innovative approaches to drill, trap, and other rap subgenres. In the current Nigerian hip-hop scene, PsychoYP emerges as one of the brightest stars.

Fentse - "Therapy is Canceled"

At 23 years old, Fentse paints musical landscapes with her ethereal sound. ‘Therapy Is Canceled’ not only showcases her musical prowess but also serves as a poignant ode to her inner child. Fentse’s enchanting vocals, lyricism, and exceptional production quality create an ethereal atmosphere that perfectly complements her unique sound.

Kah-Lo - "Pain/Pressure"

Kah-Lo

The Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer-songwriter Kah-Lo explores retribution in her debut album, “Pain/Pressure.” Themes of self-esteem improvement and assertiveness run through hit singles like “Runaway,” “GDWoman,” “Karma,” and “Fund$.” The album is a platform for Kah-Lo to craft a compelling identity, emphasizing self-esteem growth and the art of assertion.

Qing Madi - "Qing Madi"

Qing Madi

At 16, Qing Madi was impressed with her debut single ‘See Finish,’ reshaping the future of music by seamlessly blending afrobeats, pop, soul, and R&B into a genre-defying fusion. As a versatile singer, songwriter, and entertainer, Qing Madi skillfully drives the EP with her vocal prowess and adept melody-molding, embodying the essence of R&B.

YKB - "Yusful Music"

YKB stands out by seamlessly blending Yoruba and English, embracing eccentricities to add a distinctive flair to Nigerian Pop. ‘Yusful Music’ marks YKB’s artistic journey of the past two years, fusing Western and indigenous influences to accentuate his pop charm and hint at personal growth.

Shallipopi - "Presido La Pluto"

Shallipopi

By infusing his Benin heritage, Shallipopi emerges as a divisive figure in the Nigerian music scene. His debut album, ‘Presido La Pluto,’ unveils facets of this breakout star, capturing Shallipopi’s mainstream dominance fueled by his idiosyncrasies. While not flawless, the album prolongs his moment in the spotlight, skillfully highlighting his Benin heritage and weaving tales of inner-city experiences.


As the echoes of these projects reverberate in our minds, they leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Whether you seek emotional depth, cultural richness, or experimental brilliance, these artists have delivered projects that stand out, creating a symphony that will undoubtedly resonate with music enthusiasts worldwide as we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this ever-evolving journey.

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