Zozomilli, others reshaping global Afro house sound
By Akpan Glory
Once sidelined in Nigeria’s mainstream music conversations, Afro House is gaining fresh momentum globally, thanks to a new generation of artistes blending tradition with electronic innovation.
The genre, a fusion of African rhythms and traditional house music, weaves instruments such as the saxophone, piano, and synthesizer with vocals in various African languages.
While pioneers like Niniola and Sarz laid the groundwork, emerging talents are now redefining the sound and broadening its appeal both locally and globally.
Among them is Zozomilligram, a Nigerian-born, Lagos-raised artist whose real name is Olusegun Izobo, and who is fast becoming one of Afro House’s global torchbearers.
Now based in Ontario, Canada, Zozo, as he’s fondly called has teamed up with DJ Expensive to create “Afrotronic,” a sub-genre that blends heavy synths, club energy, and futuristic textures with deep African grooves.
From their Canadian studio, the duo is crafting a sound described as both rooted and revolutionary.
Their recent singles, Shakara and Jeff Bezos, are generating significant buzz across platforms, dominating dancefloors and trending heavily on TikTok.
DJ Expensive brings intricate production skills and a strong grasp of African musical heritage, while Zozomilligram supplies the creative vision and cultural fire.
Their synergy, described by fans as a “balance of raw rhythm and refined electronic chaos,” is attracting international recognition.
“For Zozo, it’s not just a genre, it’s a movement,” a fan commented on social media.
Also making waves is Lagos-based DJ-producer-songwriter Tobi Peter.
A central figure in Nigeria’s Afro House and Amapiano scenes, Tobi is known for his energetic remixes of mainstream tracks.
His growing reputation has earned him co-signs from Diplo, Sarz, Don Jazzy, and Major League DJz.
Kaduna-born Nifty Boi, who relocated to Lagos in 2019, is another rising star.
His Afro House single YUUU has racked up nearly a million streams across platforms, positioning him as one to watch.
He is currently collaborating with a major Afro House act from Romania.
Other notable names include Aniko; both a DJ and organiser of underground rave events like Sweat It Out and Group Therapy and Ifeme CS, a DJ-turned-producer credited with promoting indigenous Nigerian house music.
According to data from Spotify and Apple Music, Afro House streams surpassed five billion globally in 2025, with Nigeria accounting for 40 per cent of that figure.
Popular Afrobeats star Skales recently declared on social media that “Afro House is the future,” reinforcing the genre’s rising profile.
As the sound continues to evolve and attract new audiences, the question remains: is Afro House the next global wave, or merely a momentary phase in Africa’s dynamic music journey?
Only time and the dance floor will tell.
(NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
Published By
- Agriculture and Environment Desk Controller/Website Content Manager.
Has also recently published
GenderAugust 1, 2025Stakeholders showcase women’s impact, call for greater investment
General NewsAugust 1, 2025FG denounces alleged sale of Bauchi housing units to NAF
EntertainmentAugust 1, 2025Zozomilli, others reshaping global Afro house sound
ForeignAugust 1, 2025ECOWAS urges tougher action on human trafficking
