If longevity in the Hausa music scene measured popularity, Adam A Zango would be the top artist. However, popularity here is based on Spotify monthly listeners of 19 well-known artists.
Among the 19 Hausa music artists sampled on Spotify, Namenj is the most frequently listened-to artist, followed by Ado Gwanja. Namenj’s popularity may stem from his two hit singles ‘Dama’ feat. Hamisu Breaker and ‘Na Matsu‘ that gained tremendous traction on TikTok. In contrast, Gwanja’s distinctive wedding songs have significantly contributed to his audience, resonating strongly with both married and single Hausa women.
Hamisu Breaker and Sadiq Saleh are notable for their romantic lyrics which resonate with lovers. Breaker’s song ‘Jaruma’, which gained significant popularity during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown, quickly elevated him to fame. Similarly, Sani’s film soundtrack hits ‘Mai Kishina‘, ‘Ko Wuya Ko Dadi’, and ‘Darasul Auwal’ which became instant sensations on TikTok, significantly increased his listenership.
Dauda Kahutu Rarara, who notably secured fifth place, is recognized for his lyrics that endorse politicians. He is regarded as the wealthiest Hausa music artist, although his financial success is attributed more to the gifts he receives from politicians rather than the monetization of his songs.
Below is the ranking of the Hausa music artists based on monthly listenership on Spotify:
Artist Monthly Listeners
- Namenj 36.70K
- Ado Gwanja 35.30K
- Hamisu Breaker 35.00K
- Sadiq Saleh 33.40K
- Dauda Kahutu 30.70K
- Auta MG Boy 30.40K
- Dan Musa New Prince 30.00K
- Ali Jita 26.30K
- Ahmerdy 23.90K
- Nazifi Asnanic 23.70K
- Abdul D One 14.60K
- Kawu Dan Sarki 11.30K
- Nura M Inuwa 11.30K
- Mr442 10.50K
- Soja Boy 8.91K
- Rumerh 8.90K
- Nazir M Ahmed 7.60K
- Umar M. Sharif 6.80K
- Adam A Zango 5.90K
Rumerh, the emerging Queen of the Hausa music scene, shows great promise with her unique Anglo-Hausa lyrics. She has the potential to transcend the Hausa music genre and appeal to a broader audience. Her hit tracks ‘Beauty Sleep’, ‘Yar Kwalta’, and her collabo with Mr442, ‘Bariki’, have already gained significant popularity on TikTok.
