SPOTLIGHT

LATEST

Taves, born Aluko Toluwanimi on June 23, 2003, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, has emerged as one of the most exciting young voices in the Nigerian music scene. With a unique ability to blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop into a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative, Taves is redefining expectations of what it means to be an Afro-fusion artist today. His journey began humbly in the culturally rich city of Ibadan, where he was exposed to a mix of traditional and contemporary music that would later influence his artistry. From an early age, music served as both a creative outlet and a source of inspiration. Guided by the soulful melodies of Aṣa and the emotive storytelling of international acts like Khalid and Ed Sheeran, Taves began crafting his sound—a careful balance of introspection, melody, and rhythm. Taves took his first professional step in music with the release of his debut single, Betterment, in 2021. The track, which introduced listeners to his emotive vocals and thoughtful lyrics, marked the beginning of a promising career. He followed it up with 5AM Dreaming, a song that resonated deeply with fans and would later become part of his debut EP, 18. Released in 2021, the EP showcased his versatility, with tracks that explored themes of ambition, self-discovery, and youthful aspirations. His breakout moment came in 2022 when his cover of BNXN’s (formerly BUJU) For Days gained significant traction online. The viral moment not only drew attention to his talent but also solidified his relationship with BNXN, eventually leading to a record deal with To Your Ears Entertainment, BNXN's record label. Through this partnership, Taves gained access to a global audience, supported by the label’s affiliation with Atlantic Records UK. This milestone marked a turning point, providing the resources and platform to elevate his artistry to new heights. In 2023, with the backing of To Your Ears Entertainment, Taves released the highly anticipated single Eleyele, which added another layer to his growing catalog. The song was well-received by fans and critics alike, further solidifying his position in the Nigerian music scene. 2024 saw Taves expanding his repertoire even further. He released a two-track capsule featuring Bodija and Folake, followed by A Million Things and In The City, each song showcasing his dynamic vocal delivery and ability to experiment with different genres and styles. This was just a precursor to his sophomore release, the 8-track EP Are You Listening?, which dropped later in 2024. The EP demonstrated his continued growth as an artist, with standout tracks like Bad Romance reflecting his depth as a storyteller and his evolving sound. Taves' contributions extended beyond his own music as he also featured on BNXN’s debut album Sincerely BNXN. His contribution added a fresh dimension to the project, highlighting his ability to complement BNXN’s sound while maintaining his unique identity. This collaboration played a key role in further solidifying Taves as an artist to watch in the Nigerian and international music scenes. Throughout his career, Taves has also been featured on notable tracks with other prominent Nigerian artists, including LAX and Ladipoe. These collaborations further expanded his visibility and solidified his place in the African music landscape. As of December 2024, Taves continues to ride high on the success of his recent release, Adanna, and his sophomore EP. His unique ability to blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop with emotionally charged lyrics has earned him a dedicated fanbase and the respect of industry peers. Taves’ story is one of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to blend genres, connect emotionally with his audience, and remain authentic sets him apart in an industry often defined by trends.

Taves In 2025 — Afrobeat, Afro-Fusion Or RNB?

Taves, born Aluko Toluwanimi in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, has emerged as one of the most exciting young voices in the Nigerian music scene.

Highlights from Victony Headline Event, The Bonfire Experience

Highlights from Victony Headline Event, The Bonfire Experience

Victony turned up the heat at The Bonfire Experience, delivering a headline event that will be etched in the minds of fans and industry insiders alike.

Lojay on Features

9 Best Lojay Features You Need on Your Playlist Right Now

With Lojay, his approach to collaborations reveals an artist who understands the delicate balance between standing out and serving the song.

Burna Boy and Ebuka

Burna Boy On IG Story, Wants A Sit Down With Ebuka

Burna Boy, aka “Odogwu,” set social media ablaze by addressing a range of issues, from fabricated claims to the persistent comparisons between him and Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti.

Rema & Asake Enlisted On Barack Obama’s Favourite Music Of 2024 Former President Barack Obama continues his tradition of sharing his annual playlists, and this year is no different. On his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), Obama unveiled his highly anticipated "Favorite Music of 2024" list, showcasing a mix of global hits and emerging talents that have dominated his playlist. Among the diverse range of songs included, Nigerian stars Rema and Asake proudly make the cut, further solidifying Afrobeat's position on the global music stage. Rema's hit track "Yayo" and Asake's collaboration with Travis Scott on "Active" earned their spots on the prestigious list, standing alongside works from international heavyweights like Kendrick Lamar, Beyoncé, and Billie Eilish. Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Rema has caught the former president's attention this year. Earlier in 2024, "Yayo" was also featured on Barack Obama’s Summer Playlist, a testament to the song’s lasting appeal and the profound global influence of Afrobeat music. The playlist, celebrated for its eclectic blend, also features notable tracks such as "Lunch" by Billie Eilish, "Texas Hold 'Em" by Beyoncé, and "God Gave Me Feet for Dancing" by Ezra Collective & Yazmin Lacey. Obama's selection underscores his appreciation for a wide range of genres, from Afrobeat to indie, hip-hop, and more. This recognition not only highlights the global appeal of Nigerian artists but also emphasizes the increasing impact of Afrobeat music worldwide. Rema and Asake's inclusion reflects the genre's ability to transcend borders and connect with listeners from diverse backgrounds. As music lovers eagerly explore the playlist, it's clear that Obama’s yearly tradition continues to be a cultural moment, spotlighting music that inspires, excites, and unites. What’s your favorite track from Obama’s 2024 playlist? Let us know in the comments!

Rema & Asake Enlisted On Barack Obama Favourite Music Of 2024

Obama unveiled his highly anticipated “Favorite Music of 2024” list, and it features Rema & Asake

Darkoo featuring Davido

Darkoo Teams Up with Davido for New Track, “Right Now”

Darkoo teams up with Afrobeats sensation Davido to deliver a sultry, vibrant track titled “Right Now.”