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Nigeria's Iconic Music Groups: Where Are They Now?

Published 19 hours ago6 minute read
Author: Ibukun Oluwa
Nigeria's Iconic Music Groups: Where Are They Now?

Music has a unique way of etching memories into our hearts. For many, the golden era of African groups like Styl-Plus, Infinity, The Remedies, Mad Melon (Danfo Drivers), and VIP (Vision In Progress)  is an unforgettable soundtrack of youth and culture. But where are these iconic groups and their members today? Let’s take a walk down memory lane and see how these legends have evolved.


Styl-Plus: From Trio to Duo with a Solo Star

Image Credit: Spotify


The original Styl-Plus lineup thrilled fans with hits like “Olufunmi,” “Imagine That,” and “Runaway.” Their timeless classic “Olufunmi” recently received a fresh wave of love in 2025 thanks to rapper Ladipoe, who released a new version titled “Olufunmi (The Missing Recipe),” This collaboration brought the feels back to a whole new generation of listeners.

One of the group’s members, Tunde Akinsanmi left to pursue a solo career in 2018, reinventing himself as Tunde T Dot. Today, he’s not only a solo artist but also a tech entrepreneur deeply involved in game development and data analysis.

Meanwhile, Shifi Omoefe and Zeal Onyecheme continue the legacy of Styl-Plus as a duo. Although the group is not officially defunct, their performances are more occasional reunions than a full-time commitment. Fans still get to see them live occasionally, such as their upcoming performance alongside Mayorkun, YKB, and MC Lively at the GOtv Boxing Day event in December 2024 — a reminder that Styl-Plus’ magic is far from forgotten.



Infinity: A Gospel Journey with Changing Faces

Image Credit: Spotify


Infinity captured hearts with their gospel hit “Olori Oko,” a song that became an anthem for many. Originally featuring five members, the group’s composition shifted over time; Kehinde Akinbode and David Karnji parted ways with the band. Today, Nnogo Samson, Sunny Steven, and Joseph Okougbo carry the torch, occasionally performing and remaining active within gospel music circles.

Samson owns a food and catering service, while sunny works as a vocal coach for infinity. Though not all original members remain, Infinity continues to live in the hearts of people.


The Remedies: Hip-Hop Pioneers and Their Solo Paths

Image Credit: African Music Library


The Remedies were trailblazers in 90’s Nigerian hip-hop with chart-topping hits like “Sakomo,” “Bless My Life,” and “Wait.” The group, made up of Eedris Abdulkareem, Tony Tetuila, and Eddy Remedy (Eddy Montana), disbanded in the early 2000s following internal conflicts.

Eddy Remedy, though once a key voice in the group, had a brief solo stint and has largely stepped away from the public eye.

Eedris Abdulkareem remains a dynamic and outspoken figure in Nigerian music and activism. Beyond his legacy as a pioneer of hip-hop, he continues to run his own label, Lakreem Music, and recently recovered from a life-threatening kidney transplant with remarkable resilience. 

Known for using his music as a platform for social commentary, Eedris recently made headlines with a bold new track aimed at the political establishment. The song, which sparked controversy and was banned by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in April 2025, was described by him not as an attack but as a “call for accountability,” specifically directed at Seyi Tinubu.

His commitment to speaking truth to power has drawn comparisons to modern-day voices of resistance. Just days ago, rapper M.I Abaga praised Eedris, alongside Burna Boy and activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), for their fearless stances and shared spirit of defiance in the face of injustice.

Tony Tetuila carved out a successful solo career with hits like “Omode Meta Sere,” firmly cementing his legacy in Nigerian music history. 

He remains a beloved figure in the industry, frequently thrilling fans at events such as the Icempire party in December 2024, where he shared the stage with other top artists like 9ice and LKT

His enduring influence and contributions were also recently celebrated when Burna Boy gifted him a briefcase full of cash in May 2024 — a symbolic gesture recognizing Tony’s impact and mentorship in Nigerian music.


Danfo Drivers

Image Credit: Bella Naija

Mad Melon, born Oghene Mario Azubuike Emeofa, was one half of the famous Danfo Drivers duo alongside Mountain Black. Their hit Danfo Driver was a major street anthem that captured the hustle and spirit of Lagos life. Sadly, Mad Melon passed away in 2019 after battling an undisclosed illness.

Before his untimely passing, the duo continued to release music and perform, though with less mainstream attention than their peak years. Their legacy lives on, immortalized in the hearts of fans who grew up with their unique sound.


VIP: Ghana’s Hiplife Icons and Their New Chapters

Image Credit: Spotify

VIP (Vision In Progress) is a cornerstone of Ghanaian hiplife music, famously known for hits like “Ahomka Womu.” Their infectious beats have even found fans beyond Ghana’s borders, with many Nigerians grooving to the rhythm—especially enjoying the humorous twist Patience Ozokwor added in her popular “Make We Jolly” version. Remember that jump forward-and-backward dance move from the 2000s—way before TikTok trends took over? Yes, this was the song that started it all across Africa.

Over the years, the group has undergone several lineup changes. Promzy eventually left and now lives overseas, focusing on his solo career. The band later rebranded as VVIP, welcoming founding member Reggie Rockstone to join Zeal (formerly Lazzy) and Prodigal.

Guess what? Reggie Rockstone also has a career as a professional boxer. Recently, Prodigal and Zeal were spotted together in Nima, Ghana, sparking excitement among fans and fueling hopes for a possible reunion.

Currently, Friction—the group’s founder, has relocated to the Netherlands, where he leads a band and occasionally releases new music. Meanwhile, Promzy continues his solo journey abroad, and Zeal and Prodigal stay active as collaborators under the VVIP name.


Reflecting on a Musical Era

These legendary African bands have grown and changed, with members pursuing solo careers, new ventures, or, in some cases, leaving a lasting musical legacy that continues to inspire generations. The music they created is not just a chapter of history — it’s the soundtrack of a time, a feeling, and a connection that lives on in the hearts of many.


Discussion

What do you think led to the sudden decline of music groups in Nigeria, and is there any group that we missed? Let us know in the comments?



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