There has been a strong relationship in the Nigerian entertainment industry with the unique synergy between Nollywood and the music sector.
While music uses rhythms, beats and lyrics to relay fictional or real-life experiences, movies utilise acting to achieve the same goal.
Over the years, Nollywood icons have explored music production, while music stars have also made their appearances in the world of acting.
Here are at least five Nigerian musicians that made appearances in the world of acting:
1. Reminisce
This talented Nigerian rapper not only won the airwaves with his chart-topping hits, but also made a remarkable transition into the world of acting, leaving fans astounded and craving for more.
Reminisce, who in a groundbreaking move featured in Kemi Adetiba’s sensational Netflix blockbuster, “King of Boys.”
This completely engrossing crime thriller had viewers on the edge of their seats, and Reminisce’s portrayal of a villain added an electrifying twist to the narrative.
2. Yemi Alade
(Mama Africa) – Renowned Yemi Alade has garnered immense praises for her music, her foray into the world of acting has left Nigerians yearning for more.
Yemi Alade’s performance in Funke Akindele’s blockbuster film, “Omo Ghetto the Saga,” marked her debut appearance as an actor.
‘Mama Africa’ embraced the role of a gang leader and drug dealer, exuding the same energy and stage presence that has become her trademark as a musician.
3. Banky W
Olubankole Wellington, popularly known as Banky W, has featured in quite a number of Nollywood movies, thereby making him also popular in the movie industry.
Banky W embarked on his acting journey by featuring in Funke Akindele’s enthralling production, “The Return of Jenifa”, in 2011. In 2016, he secured a role in highly acclaimed movie, “The Wedding Party”, directed by Kemi Adetiba. Following the film’s success, Banky W repeated his role in the movie’s eagerly anticipated sequel, “The Wedding Party 2”.
In 2018, Banky W took the lead role in another movie “Up North”. He lent his dynamism to the movie “Sugar Rush” also further showcasing his versatility.
4. Peter Okoye (Mr P)
Another notable music legend that have also featured in Nollywood movies is Peter Okoye, known as Mr. P, one of the famous Nigerian music duo, P-Square.
Mr P recently stepped into the realm of acting, making his debut appearance in the popular
Netflix series ‘Shanty Town’, in 2023.
In this captivating series, he skillfully played the character of Femi, leaving a lasting impression on both viewers and fans.
5. Tiwa Savadge
The Afrobeats superstar is set to make her acting debut in ‘Water & Garri’, which was announced Thursday, April 4. The new film will premiere on Prime Video on May 10.
Although ‘Water & Garri’ is her first movie where she will be playing a lead role, however, Tiwa Savadge has before now landed cameos in big projects including on MTV Shuga in 2013-14, where she played the role of Sade Banjo.
In 2016, she also graced the screen following a cameo in Funke Akindele’s ‘Jenifa’s Diary’, a Nigerian television comedy series.
