P-Square are a Nigerian music duo composed of the twin brothers Peter Okoye and Paul Okoye, who co-write and co-produce most of their songs.[4][5][6] Noted for their artistic reinvention, musical versatility, and visual presentation, they are widely regarded as one of the most influential African acts of all time and one of the most successful music groups from Africa.[7][8] They were integral to the evolution of the 2000s and 2010s African popular music.[9] The duo was launched into the mainstream recognition following the release of the song “Senorita” in 2003,[10] and later gain recognition after releasing their sophomore album Get Squared in 2005. The success of the album earned them a nomination at the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2006. A prominent figure in the Africa popular culture of the 21st Century, P-Square was awarded Artistes of the Decade at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2015.[11][12][13]
After the disbandment of the dancing and singing group they formed in the late 1990s, Peter and Paul subsequently founded 'P-Square'. In 2001, they won a talent show and signed a record deal with Timbuk2 Label where they released their debut album in 2003. They later founded their own label and released the following albums: Get Squared, Gameover, Danger, Invasion and Double Trouble.[4] "Gameover" album which explored multiple societal themes such as Love, Regret, Assurance and Political Criticism, reportedly sold over 8 Million copies worldwide.[14][15] It is the only 2000s project from Nigeria to have surpassed 30M streams on Spotify, and has been considered a timeless body of work by music critics.[16][17] Some of P-Square songs include "Personally," "Chop My Money," "Beautiful Onyinye," "Alingo," “E no easy“ "Shekini," "Do Me," “Temptation,” "Bring it On," “Testimony,” "Bizzy Body," and "Gimme Dat."
They have been referred to as the “Best African Group” by Forbes Africa consecutively. They have appeared on the Forbes Lists of the 40 most powerful celebrities in Africa.[19] In 2021, the duo reunited after their disbandment in 2017. They returned with the single 'Jaiye' and have announced their Reunion Tour and their forthcoming album.[20]
History
1981–1999: Childhood and career beginnings
Jos, the city where Peter and Paul grew up, lies in the Centre of Nigeria.
The twins Peter Okoye and Paul Okoye, though originally from Anambra, were born on 18 November 1981 in Jos, to Josephine Okoye - a pastor, and Pa Moses Okoye - a businessman. Peter and Paul, together with their siblings: Jude, Mary, Tony, Lilian and Ifeanyi Okoye, were raised Catholics, with Christian values.[21][4]
They became interested in performing arts while attending St. Murumba College, a Catholic School in Jos. They were involved in the school music and drama club and began singing and dancing, while drawing inspiration from artists like Bobby Brown, Michael Jackson, and MC Hammer.[21][22] Also while in school, they formed an A cappella quartet that eventually morphed into a more pop-oriented dance crew in which they developed choreographed routines. Their artistic talent and precise dance routine soon made them household names in the city of Jos, where they performed at school functions and other occasions.[21]
Inspired by the success of Nigeria's team at the 1996 Summer Olympic in Atlanta, they dabbled in an unsuccessful footballing career at ‘Pepsi Football academy,' in Jos. They played alongside Mikel John Obi at the academy, who was in the junior team then.[23][24] They would later form a music and dancing group called ‘smooth criminal’ in 1997. By 1999, they had added keyboards, bass, drum, and guitar to their skills. Their works include the soundtracks for a number of films like Tobi, Mama Sunday, Moment of Bitterness and Evas River. Despite their parents hope for them to aim for a career in academics, Peter and Paul remained committed to their musical journey.[25]
‘The Smooth Criminals’ group disbanded when its members left to various other universities. Subsequently, Peter and Paul formed their own group, variously called "Double P", "P&P", and "Da Pees", until they eventually settled on "P Square", a name given to them by a friend of theirs called Richard.[26][22] They later signed a management deal with Bayo Odusami, a seasoned concert promoter. Around the same time, P-Square won a Nigerian talent competition "Grab Da Mic" in 2001, and hence Benson & Hedges sponsored their debut album. Peter stated, “ I think it was one hell of an opportunity for us then. We were still in our first year at the University of Abuja in 2001 when we were informed about the competition in Jos. We were already popular in Abuja and bought the form. We came tops out of 38 artistes that participated. We took the first position and eventually represented the Northern Zone in the Abuja final where we won again out of the 22 artistes that took part in that show. At the finals in Lagos, we became the overall winners which made Benson and Hedges offer to launch our album.”[4][21][22] The album titled “Last Nite” was released under Timbuk2 music label in 2003. Though with a modest success, the album, garnered the duo a nomination for ‘The Most Promising African Group’ at the KORA Awards 2003 and won the 2003 Amen Award for Best R&B Group.[2]
2005–2006: Mainstream success with Get Squared
In May 2005, the duo returned with their sophomore album, Get Squared, released on their own Record label “Square Records”.[27] A breakthrough success, the album spawned several hit singles, which includes, "Bizzy Body," "Temptation,” “Omoge Mi,” and “Say Your Love.” Get Squared album was the start of real commercial success for the twins and it became one of highest-selling albums of 2005.[28] Bangers such as “Bizzy Body” and “Get Squared” became nationwide hits. “Oga Police”, spoke about police brutality from the viewpoint of a young Nigerian. “Temptation”, was about a ladies' man. The album's opener “Story” reenacts the traditional African storytelling setting where children gather around an elder and listened intently. The success of the album earned them a nomination at the 2006 MTV EMA awards for the Best African Act. P-Square won 5 awards in a night at the maiden edition of the Headies Awards in 2006, then known as the Hip Hop World Award in the following categories: "Best R&B/Pop Album," "Album of the year," "Best Music Video," "Song of the year," "Artistes of the year."[29][30]
2007–2008: Continent-wide success with Gameover
In May 2007, P-Square released their third studio album, "Gameover". In the album, P-Square embraced a stylistic shifts and a new musical direction that was very remarkable, due to the album's usage of Nigerian rhythms and melodies. It received the most critical commercial reception in comparison to their debut and sophomore albums. The album sold over 8million copies Worldwide.[2] Gameover boasts of several hits like “No one like you,” “Roll it,” “Ifunanya,” and the lead single “Do Me” - which featured vocals from Sultry Soul singer Waje. "Do Me" became a massive pop anthem few days after release that clubs, music shows, parties and other fun places won't be lit without it. In the publication of the Red Bull's Editor, Jessica Kariisa, She wrote, "The album's bright and bouncy single 'No One Like You' would go on to service many a wedding reception dancefloor across the continent and diaspora, but it was the sleek bop 'Do Me' that solidified the twins as Afropop stars."[31] Riding a wave of their widespread reception, the duo released an accompanying 'game over' video album in 2008. The first of its kind in the industry.[32] The success of the album won them the “Best Group” at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2008, and were nominated for the “Artiste of the year,” “Best Video,“ “Best Live Performer,” and “Best R&B” in the same awards. They also won the “Best Group” at the 2007 Channel O Music Video award and ‘Do Me’ won the “Best Video” at the same award. They were also nominated at MOBO Awards for the “Best African Act,” in 2008.
2009–2010: Evolution with Danger Album
In the 2009 CNN documentary on Nigerian Music, Christian Purefoy, revealed how P-Square have sold multiple arenas across Africa in late 2000s. He said “...Having conquered Africa, P-Square are now planning a tour in America and Europe. Building on their success in Africa, the Nigerian Artistes are hoping the stage is set to take on the rest of the world” [33][34]
In September 2009, P-Square released their fourth studio album “Danger.” It was supported by Hits like “E No Easy,” - featuring J martins, “Gimme dat“ “Danger,” - which interpolated Eminem's "Without Me" and “Possibility” - featuring 2face. In an interview with Busola Afolabi, P-Square talked about the album, they said “For the first time, P-Square did an experiment which is bringing a kind of song that doesn't exist in Africa and we were happy when we heard it was number two in the African top 10 countdown. Also for the first time, we did a ‘Collabo’ with 2Face. Africans demanded for it, so we decided to give it to them. We are now matured, it is not like the “Do me I do you” song, this is more of facing the real life. We tried to portray the African side of women and their pride. So it is the maturity in it that stands it out.”[35] The album earned the duo some international accolades, include being the first Nigerian artiste to be nominated at the BET Awards for 2010 Best International act.[36] They also won the 2010 KORA Awards “artistes of the year,” becoming the second Nigerian Artiste to win the category Since Femi Kuti in 1999.[37] P-Square missed the event due to their tour in London. However, the KORA's award plaque and its cash reward of $1M were received by the President of Burkina Faso at the event, he would later present the award to P-Square at his presidential villa.[38]
In 2010, P-Square embarked on their first American tour.[39] While on the tour they had an international media tour with an American talk host - Wendy Williams. They were asked who they would like to collaborate in America, Peter stated, “...we would love to work with Michael Jackson, we wish he was still alive”. They also cited Bobby Brown and MC Hammer as musical inspirations.
In August 2011, P-Square headlined 'Afrobeats Festival' at the Apollo Hammersmith in London. The event was organized by Cokobar, Phoenix Media and Smade in association with Choice FM. According to Bella Naija, "It was the first African event in the UK to sellout a 5,000+ capacity venue with over 3,000 people attempting to get last minute tickets at the venue." PM Entertainment gathered that P-Square was used to headline the concert by the organisers due to popular demand for the twin brothers in the UK.[43][44] In December 2011, they signed a record deal with Akon's Konvict Muzik label.[45] The affiliation with the label, coupled with their subsequent distribution deal in 2012 with Universal Music SA added to the international success of the ‘Invasion’ Album.[46] The lead singles ‘Chop My Money’ and ‘Beautiful Onyinye’ later gained international attention in 2012 following the remixes of Akon and Rick Ross respectively.[47]Henhouse Prowlers, American bluegrass band, covered the single ‘Chop My Money’ in their album.[48]
In the same year, P-Square was featured in the Forbes List of ‘The 40 Most Powerful Celebrities In Africa’, among those who have exerted the highest degree of influence in contemporary African pop culture.[49]
In April 2012, they collaborated with the French singer, Matt Houston in a French version of their 2009 hit song ‘E no easy’ retitled ‘Positif.’ The song spent 29 weeks at top 5 on SNEP - French official chart and 16 weeks at top 7 Ultratop - Belgium official chart respectively.[50] The song was the first Afrobeats summer hit in France 2012. The success of the song boosted P-Square's visibility in the Francophone Countries.[51][52] The English version was played in Paris during a celebration by the 2012 French Olympic team.[53]
In August 2012, P-Square returned with ‘Alingo’, it was produced by pappy J and was directed by Jude Okoye and Clarence Peters. It won ‘Channel O’ and ‘Headies’ Best Music Video of the year in 2013.[54]
2013–2014: Double Trouble groundbreaking
In 2013, P-Square paid homage to their musical idol in ‘Personally’ video. The song was produced by Vtek. The video featured cameo appearance from Nollywood Veteran, Osita Iheme.[55] Three days after the music video dropped, they got a call from the Jackson's Family, who sent them an appreciation video through Jermaine Jackson . In his speech of compliments, he said, “It's not everyday that a phenomenal band comes along...P-Square, they are absolutely sensational, with their singing and dancing it kind of remind me of being in the Jackson 5...”
“Personally" earned P-Square a nomination for Best International Performance at the 2013 Soul Train Music Awards, becoming the first Nigerian Artiste to be nominated at the Soul Train Awards.[56][57][58]
In March 2013, P-Square collaborated with Nigerian Veteran Musician Lagbaja in a song titled ‘Unlimited’, to create the theme song for one of Nigeria's leading telecommunication giant, Glo.[59] In February 2014, P-Square launched a family-oriented animated series – “The Alingo's“. The name was inspired by their song “Alingo“. In description of the series, Vanguard News wrote, "It is a project from P-Classic Entertainment, a company aimed at producing television contents and animation. It is creatively driven by Peter Okoye. The show aims to be the first high quality animated series from Nigeria."[60][61]
On 7 September 2014, P-Square unveiled the release date for their sixth studio album.[62] The album which was scheduled to be released on 12 September 2014 was titled ‘Double Trouble‘ and had already 3 released singles; "Ejeajo" which featured the Sensational American rapper, T.I., "Shekini" and "Bring it on." Double Trouble featured bonus tracks of Testimony, Personally and Alingo with guest appearance from Don Jazzy, T.I, Dave Scott, Awilo Longomba, and Jermaine Jackson. The captivating tune "Bring it on" portrayed how one should not give up, even in difficult times. The catchy single ‘Shekini’ which dominated the airwaves in Middle East and North Africa, had some of Arab acts like Black Cats and Arash sampling the song. "Shekini" provided the catalyst that helped the duo to break into Arab world market.[63][64][65]
In September 2014, they kicked off their double trouble world tour.[66]
2015–2016: Mawazine Festival and Artiste of the decade
Omar Es Saidi, a Moroccan Radio personality, who spoke exclusively to Saturday Tribune during the All African Music Awards acknowledged P-Square. He said, “Moroccans, four-five years ago, did not know about Nigerian music. But we decided to introduce Nigerian music with Psquare, Dbanj and others. I don't know how else to tell you, but Nigerian music is a big success in Morocco. Psquare is a big star in Morocco. Festival Mawazine is one of the biggest festivals in Morocco. Psquare was booked to perform at the festival in 2015. It was a huge success.”[63]
In March 2015, it was announced that P-Square would co-headline the annual Mawazine International Music Festival in Morocco, Alongside Jennifer Lopez, Pharrell Williams, Akon, Usher, Maroon 5, and Placebo. This would make P-Square the first Afrobeats artistes to perform to over 100,000 spectators at the event since it was founded in 2001.[67][68] In July 2015, P-Square was awarded the honorary “Artistes of the Decade” at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2015, for their cultural impacts in the music industry.[11][69]
In August 2015, GLO partnered with Peter of P-Square on a TV competition dance show called #DanceWithPeter, which was broadcast on Africa Magic Urban, AIT, TV3, ORTB & MTV-Base Africa. It was intended to bring dancers and entertainers from around the world to showcase their talents for prizes. Kelvin Ayanruoh emerged the winner taking home the following rewards: Toyota RAV 4 SUV, N3million cash, and an opportunity of featuring in P-Square's next music video.[70][71]
In the same year, P-Square announced their 2015 summer tour in USA/Canada, during the tour they met with the ROC Nations boss, Jay Z and his cousin Bee-High in their Tidal's New York Office for a business deal.[72]
In March 2016, Psquare co-headlined the main statge at the Pal Mundo world festival - the biggest Caribbean and Latin Music Festival in Netherlands, alongside the "Suavenmente" Crooner, Elvis Crespo.[73][74]
In the same year, there was rumors of the Twin Brothers Peter Okoye and Paul Okoye going their separate ways. However Peter's Personal manager refuted the rumors that the twin brothers are still together, he said, “Peter is still very much with his brother, Changing his name to Mr.P has nothing to do with breaking up with his twin brother or going solo.”[75] The Duo's Publicist, Bayo Adetu, also maintained that there is no official statement regarding the viral rumors from the public.[75]
In September 2016, P-Square later made a comeback with a catchy song titled ‘Bank Alert.’ It features cameo appearances from Veteran Musician Onyeka Onwenu and Nollywood Veteran, Mr. Ibu.[76]
2017: The split
In February 2017, P-Square released the sensational song titled ‘Away,’ with its accompanying music video.
In September 2017, they cancelled their ‘USA/Canada tour 2017’ amidst of rumors of another rift between them.[77]
In the same period, Peter of P-Square indicated his intention to cancel his contract with the ‘P-Square Brand’ He stated in his letter to their lawyer, “What I am about to do has been a very difficult decision to make. I have decided to use this medium to terminate the agreement between Psquare."[78]
2018–2021: Solo careers
The group later disbanded to pursue solo music careers behind their pseudonyms RudeBoy (Paul) and Mr. P.(Peter). The duo, undeniably, had bankable solo careers.[79]
Mr.P ( Peter) had successful singles like ‘Ebeano,’ “Look into my eyes,” “Just Like that,” and “One more night.” He also dabbled in acting in the 2018 drama, Genevieve Nnaji's “Lionheart,” and more recently in the Netflix original “Shanty Town.”[79]
Rudeboy ( Paul) also had a desirous musical solo career. He had successful singles like “Reason With Me,” “Woman,” “Together,” “Ayoyo,” “Double Double,” and “Audio Money.”
In 2021, they released their solo debut album titled “Prodigal,” by Mr. P and “RudyKillUs,” by Rudeboy.
In November 2021, the duo put an end to their years-long falling-out. In a viral video, their elder brother and manager Jude, could be seen warmly celebrating his twin brothers.[80]
2022– present: Reunion tour and album
In May 2022, the duo announced their reunion world tour, which is scheduled to kick off on 5 August 2022 and come to an end on 10 December 2022. They toured several cities in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia (Dubai).[81]
In May 2023, P-Square disclosed to the CNN Reporter Larry Madowo, in an interview of their forthcoming album.[79]
Artistry
“It's not everyday that a phenomenal band comes along…P-Square, they are absolutely sensational, with their singing and dancing it kind of remind me of being in the Jackson 5…”
P-Square possesses Tenor and Contra-alto voice type, with a range spanning from G#2 - D5.[4][26]
"Beautiful Onyinye," "No one like you," “I Love you,” “Forever,” "Omoge Mi," and "Bring it on", e.t.c, are some of the songs P-Square have demonstrated their vocal dexterity.[14][4][83][84]
Influences
Michael Jackson in 1984. He is cited as P-Square's major musical inspiration.
P-Square music is a fusion of R&B, Hip Hop, Afropop & Dance Pop. Their musical style is generalily characterized by big budget videos, love focused lyrics, relaxed rhythms, evocative and dance-floor ready music. In an interview with Wendy Williams, Paul stated, “ P-Square's most dance and club songs come from Peter, and I am into mid tempo and love songs. While the concept for our Video directions comes from Jude.”[87][86]
Stage and videos
P-Square's Stage Performances have been receiving praises and accolades by spectators and critics. Besides incorporating singing and dancing into a stage presence, they also thrill audiences with their mastery of playing multiple musical instruments.[88][89]
P-Square has received accolades for their big budget and game-changing videos such as “Temptation remix (2006)” and “Do Me (2008)”.[90] They always maintained that shooting quality videos have been an advantage to their career transformation.[91][26][22]
Endorsement
In August 2010, P-Square signed a multi-million naira endorsement deal with Glo as the Ambassadors for the telecom company.[92]
P-Square would later collaborate with the Nigerian Veteran Musician, Lagbaja in 2013 to create a theme song titled 'Unlimited' for the Telecommunication giant.[59]
Legacy
The duo, having debuted in 2003, has made a profound impact on African Popular culture and beyond, with their Music, Visuals, Performances, and tours. Forbes included P-Square on its 40 Most Powerful Celebrities in Africa in 2011, acknowledging their commercial dominance.P-Square was awarded the honorary “Artiste of the Decade” at the MTV Africa Music Award 2015, for their cultural impacts in the music industry between 2005 and 2015.New African magazine included P-Square on its 2013 rankings of 100 most influential African, they added, “Psquare have defined and set a benchmark for a new generation of Nigerian and African artists to follow with their energetic and infectious sound…Hit after hit, the twin brothers have become apt at giving audiences songs that cut across age, gender and geographical boundaries”Keisha Gitari on BBC, noted, "As a duo they dominated the Nigerian music scene for years in and were one of the first groups to export Afrobeats to other parts of the continent."P-Square was honored as KORA LEGEND on 17th November 2023. They noted, “From their captivating debut to their energetic stage performances, P-Square has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. Their catchy melodies, unrivalled creativity and dedication to the art of music have elevated them to the status of true industry legends.” [93][11][9]
Commercial influence
Referred to as the “Best African Group” by Forbes Africa and various media outlets, P-Square has sold over 40M albums records as of 2011.[19][7] They remained one of the best selling African acts of all time in the CD era. CNN reporter, Christian Purefoy, in his 2009 documentary on Nigeria Music, revealed how P-Square sold millions of album copies in a week. From the “Get squared” Album, Psquare would go on to have a trifecta projects with “Gameover” and “Danger.” Their commercial power is evenly distributed across CD albums sales and digital streaming sales.
Visual album
In a culture of consumption of art and entertainment, music can often be forgotten or lost in a sea of content. The rise of Psquare's Visual Albums in mid 2000s cemented the status of Albums and music videos as an ‘Art.’ [94]
With the video albums of "Get squared" and " Gameover", they have been referred to as the primary innovators of Nigeria's modern music videos.[95] Their music videos were regularly featured on MTV Base, a music channel that catered to audiences across Africa and Europe.[14][96][97]
Musical diversity
P-Square's ability to fuse different genres of music in a way that is both innovative and accessible is unparalleled.
Their albums and collaborations are the attestation to their artistic reinvention.
North America
P-Square was cited among the acts that made the Afrobeats genre popular on the international stage, through their series of tours and features with Foreign Acts like Rick Ross, T.I, Akon.[9][95] They had attracted Busta Rhymes to Nigeria at an event in 2008, to promote peace in the Niger delta part of Nigeria.[98] P-Square has also attracted the Jackson's Family to Nigeria in 2013.[99]
When Afrobeats was never mainstream in Europe, P-Square headlined the first afrobeats concert tagged 'Afrobeats Festival' in London at Apollo Theatre. According to BellaNaija, it was the first African Event in the UK to attract close to 8000 people.[100][44]
In 2012, they became the first Afrobeats artistes to peak at top 5 on SNEP - French official chart and top 10 on Ultratop - Belgium Official chart. The song was the first Afrobeats summer hit song in France and in turn boosted Afrobeats visibility in the francophone music market.
P-Square co-headlined the main stage at the Pal Mundo world festival in 2016 - the biggest Caribbean and Latin Music Festival in Netherlands, alongside the “Suavemente” crooner, Elvis Crespo.
Films
P-Square songs have been featured in a lot Hollywood movies in the form soundtrack and dramatic scenes.
In 2016, ‘Shekini’ was among the soundtrack for the American Biological drama feature film - The Queen of Katwe.[101]
Diplomacy
P-Square has been part of important events and celebrations in Africa notably: Rwanda's Patriotic Front Silver Jubilee, Liberia's "Bicentennial Celebration events, South Sudan's "Together for Peace Concert."
Politics
They have also used their position to play some important political roles in Nigeria. They endorsed the Labour Party Candidate Peter Obi in 2023 Nigeria Presidential election, though some have cited their patriotism to be performative, because they rapport with capitalists and have had other presidential guests. They performed at the inauguration of President Buhari in 2015.
Influence on other artistes
Some Artists have cited P-Square as a their major musical inspiration, notably Davido, Wizkid, Rema, among others.[102][95][103]
P-Square attracted headlines because they reportedly turned irate when they were notified by organisers in the middle of their performance at the Guinness Show about some change in plans which would affect the length of their performance, and that of the next act, Sean Paul. DJ Jimmy Jatt explained that - "According to the production plan, the live broadcast was planned to have Sean Paul perform at the same time of Psquare's performance. They needed to show the reggae star to the waiting viewers across the globe so as to balance the simultaneous transmission of the concert across specified countries" They were said to have immediately left the premises of the show, but after intervention of the show organisers, they returned with 2face to perform "possibility", but later on received apology.[104][105][106]
Even though the history and evolution of Nigerian Hip hop has its influence from the fusion of American hip hop and Afrobeat, the P-Square group has been faced with controversies for their slight sampling of western songs in their records. In an interview with the host of the 'truth show' Olisa Adibua, they maintained that as a record producer and songwriter, one can build on any record using an existing or non-existing artistic techniques.[107][26][108][4]
The duo had a difference in opinion regarding what Peter perceived as a lopsidedness in individual input of songs which was getting featured on their joint albums with Paul getting a lion share of his songs selected. This led to Peter refusing to do anything associated with the name "P-Square" for weeks. He later relocated with his wife and kids from the mansion they shared. A lawyer was involved to help split their fortune as they were both involved in joint ventures over the prior years.[109]
The brothers ultimately reconciled publicly on 17 November 2021, when they both hugged and shook hands at Peter Okoye's home in Lagos. Peter's wife and the duo's older brother, Jude Okoye were also present and hugged each other as well.[110]
In January 2014, the Okoye brothers bought mansions next door to one another in Atlanta.[123]
On 27 June 2020, Peter Okoye opened up in a video on his Instagram page how he and his wife contracted COVID-19. He then urged people to adhere to safety precautions highlighted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, to be safe from the COVID-19 pandemic.
An Animated Series, inspired by “the need to create unique content for children and fill the vacuum in the media sphere”.[60][61]
2015
Dance with Peter
Judge (Peter P-Square)
A Dance Reality Show, brought into existence a novel dimension to dancing, its rudiments, the intrigues of competitiveness and an exciting display of talents.
↑ Certain award groups do not simply award one winner. They acknowledge several different recipients, have runners-up, and have third place. Since this is a specific recognition and is different from losing an award, runner-up mentions are considered wins in this award tally. For simplification and to avoid errors, each award in this list has been presumed to have had a prior nomination.
Game Over is the third studio album by the Nigerian duo P-Square. It was released on 1 May 2007, through Square Records. Developed as a visual album, nearly all the songs received a music video. P-Square embraced a new musical direction with the desire to assert their full artistic expression. The album's theme incorporates Love, Desire, Betrayal, Regret, Assurance, and Political criticism. Essentially an R&B and pop album, Gameover also covered genres like reggae and hip hop. The album boasts of singles like "No one like you," "Roll it," "Ifunanya," and the lead single "Do Me" - which featured vocals from Waje. The album which sold over 10million copies worldwide, was credited for redefining music videos in the African music industry with the singles "Do Me,” “Temptation remix” and "Roll it". On 1 May 2007, the album was released on iTunes.
The discography of P-Square, a Nigerian R&B duo composed of Peter and Paul Okoye, consists of five studio albums, one compilation album, twenty nine singles, and twenty five music videos. Peter & Paul Okoye were raised in Jos, Nigeria. They both joined their school's music and drama club where they began singing, dancing and miming songs by MC Hammer, Bobby Brown and Michael Jackson.
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. Born in the Ojuelegba suburb of Surulere, Lagos, Wizkid is a voice in the emerging Afrobeats movement. His music is a blend of Afrobeats, afropop, R&B, afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and pop. He began recording music at the age of 11 and released a collaborative album with the Glorious Five, a group he and a couple of his church friends formed. In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Banky W's Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E). He rose to the limelight after releasing "Holla at Your Boy", the lead single from his debut studio album, Superstar (2011), which also spawned the singles "Tease Me/Bad Guys" and "Don't Dull".
"Sexy Mama" is a song recorded by Nigerian singer Iyanya featuring Wizkid for the former's second studio album, Desire (2013). It was issued to digital retailers as the album's fifth single on 6 February 2013, coinciding with the release of the parent album, through his label Made Men Music Group. Written by both of the two musicians, "Sexy Mama" was solely produced by D'Tunes. It is a dancehall and dance-inspired track that contains lyrics pertaining to a man's interest in a girl he met at a club.
"Chop My Money" is a song by Nigerian duo P-Square, featuring additional vocals from Akon and May D. The song originally appeared on their fifth studio album, The Invasion (2011), and was recorded shortly after P-Square signed a partnership deal with Akon's Konvict Muzik. The music video for "Chop My Money" was directed by Jude Engees Okoye and Ben Marc.
Greatest Hits is the first greatest hits album by Nigerian duo P-Square. It was released on 5 May 2013, by Square Records. The album produced one new single "Alingo", which was released on 15 August 2012 and appeared on the duo's sixth studio album, Double Trouble (2014). Other songs on the album include "No One Like You", "Do Me", "Chop My Money", "Beautiful Onyinye", "E No Easy", "Danger", "Ifunanya", "Temptation", and "Bizzy Body".
"Alingo" is a song by Nigerian duo P-Square. It appeared as a bonus track on their sixth studio album, Double Trouble (2014). The song peaked at number one on MTV Base's Official Naija Top 10 Chart for the week of March 22 through March 28, 2013, surpassing 2 Face Idibia's "Ihe Neme". The duo recorded "Alingo" prior to the Love AfroBeats Festival, which occurred at the HMV Apollo in London.
"Personally" is a song by Nigerian duo P-Square. It was released as the second single from their sixth studio album, Double Trouble (2014). On June 21, 2013, Jude Engees Okoye and Clarence Peters created the music video for the song, which was posted to Vevo and included a cameo by Osita Iheme. "Personally" peaked at number one on the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 Chart for the week of August 10 through August 22, 2013. It was nominated for Song of the Year at the 2014 MTV Africa Music Awards.
The Headies 2012 was the 7th edition of The Headies. It was hosted by M.I and Omawumi. The ceremony took place on 20 October 2012, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The aforementioned hosts thrilled fans with their song titled "The Headies". Chidinma opened the show by performing her song "Kedike". The Okoye brothers won a total of three awards. The Artiste of the Year award went to Wizkid. Tiwa Savage and Wande Coal won the Best Male and Female Vocal Performance categories, respectively. Vector won the Best Rap Single and Lyricist on the Roll plaques for "Angeli". Davido won the Next Rated category and was later awarded a Hyundai Sonata. The Headies celebrated the reunion of prominent Nigerian musicians from the 80s and 90s, including Onyeka Onwenu, Oris Wiliki, Mike Okori, Baba Fryo, Shina Peters, Fatai Rolling Dollar and Daddy Showkey. Femi Kuti was honored with the Hall of Fame award.
"Surulere" is a song by Nigerian singer Dr SID. It was released on November 13, 2013, as the lead single from his second studio album, Siduction (2013). Don Jazzy produced the song and was featured on it. "Surulere" peaked at number one on MTV Base's Official Naija Top 10 chart for the week of March 21 through March 27, 2014. It also peaked at number two on the Pulse Nigeria Music Video chart. "Surulere" won Best Collabo of the Year at the 2014 City People Entertainment Awards and was nominated for Song of the Year at both The Headies 2014 and MTV Africa Music Awards 2014.
Yemi Eberechi Alade, better known as Yemi Alade, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress and activist. Her music is a mixture of Afropop, highlife, dancehall, pop and R&B, and has been of influence in several countries across Africa. She sings in English, Igbo, Pidgin, Yoruba, French, Swahili and Portuguese.
Legendury Beatz is a Nigerian record producing and songwriting duo, composed of siblings Uzezi Oniko and Okiemute Oniko. Their production style is deeply rooted in afrobeats as well as in several other genres, including hip hop, reggae fusion, moombahton and electro house.
Osabuohien Osaretin, better known by his stage name Sarz, is a Nigerian record producer, mixing engineer and musician. Born in Benin City, Edo State, he is popularly known for the tag “Sarz on the beat” or "Really", at the beginning or end of all his music productions.
Oluseye Desmond Sodamola, professionally known as Spinall, is a Nigerian disc jockey, record producer, and songwriter. He has released six studio albums and collaborated with artists that have included Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Asake, Joeboy among others. He has won numerous awards for his work, including All Africa Music Awards and The Beatz Awards. He is also the first Nigerian disc jockey to play at festivals such as Coachella, SXSW, and Glastonbury.
R.E.D is the second studio album by Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage. It was released on December 19, 2015, by Mavin Records and 323 Entertainment. The album features guest appearances from Don Jazzy, Olamide, Dr SID, Iceberg Slim, 2face Idibia, D'Prince, Busy Signal and Reekado Banks. It was primarily produced by Don Jazzy, along with additional production from Baby Fresh, Altims, Spellz and P2J. R.E.D was supported by the singles "My Darlin" and "Standing Ovation". Its deluxe edition was released in February 2016, and features collaborations with Wizkid and P-Square. R.E.D was nominated for Best Album at the 2016 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
Temi DollFace is a Nigerian electro-pop-soul singer, who grew up in England. Her music is described as "a brand of music that is jazzy, energetic and theatrical". She is best known for her 2013 single "Pata Pata", which received four AFRIMA nominations at the All Africa Music Awards for "Best Video", "Revelation Of The African Continent", "Best African Pop Song" and "Most Promising African Artiste On The Continent". In 2016 TemiDollFace released the single "Beep Beep", ahead of an album release.
Afrobeats, not to be confused with Afrobeat or Afroswing, is an umbrella term to describe popular music from West Africa and the diaspora that initially developed in Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK in the 2000s and 2010s. Afrobeats is less of a style per se, and more of a descriptor for the fusion of sounds flowing out of Nigeria and Ghana. Genres such as hiplife, jùjú music, highlife, azonto music, and naija beats, among others, were amalgamated under the "Afrobeats" umbrella.
Paul Okoye, who is better known as Rudeboy, is a Nigerian singer. He rose to fame in the 2000s as a member of the P-Square duo with his identical twin brother Peter Okoye.
Peter Okoye, who is better known as Mr P, is a Nigerian singer. He rose to fame in the 2000s as a member of the P-Square duo with his identical twin brother Rudeboy and in 2021 was awarded with an honorary Doctorate degree from ESCAE University in Benin Republic.
"Skeletun" is a song recorded by Nigerian singer-songwriter Tekno, it was released on October 8, 2019, by the Cartel Entertainment. It was written by Tekno and produced by Phantom. The song was featured on the soundtrack to Coming 2 America. It debuted at number 19 on the first ever official UK Afrobeats Singles Chart and was nominated for Best Pop Single at The Headies 2020.
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