2020 was a very tumultuous year for all. In the USA, the year started very normal until news broke about suspected cases of Covid19 discovered in the USA, which was up till that point a “Chinese” problem. The USA went on to become the number one host for the virus and the rest is history. However, the global pandemic that ensured caused millions of people to lose their lives , shut down a lot of businesses, and crippled the normal day to day activities for people all over the world. One can argue that artists and entertainers were the most affected because these people basically make all their money from touring, but with the grounding of flights in airports across the world , it meant no income for artists.

Surprisingly , there was still a reasonable amount of activity in the music industry, artists turned to streaming services for income which led to a more than anticipated amount of albums and EPs being released. In Indianapolis, a few artists had a very strong year and here are the nine artists that had a very solid 2020.

9. Oluwatimileyin

Oluwatimileyin keeps impressing us long after we first stumbled on his work and projects. The Nigerian artist from Indianapolis USA released several compelling singles in 2020 which cumulated in the release of his Debut EP titled “The first Epistle of Oluwatimileyin” . A videographer by trade , he is also making sure his videos match the vibe of his singles and projects. His hard work has earned him a spot on this list. We are looking forward to his sophomore EP and listening party.

8. Rilo

Rilo had a very productive  year starting off with the release of his “Out of the blue” EP around the second quarter of the year. The impressive EP showed a lot of growth and versatility from the young Afrobeat artist and endeared him to Afrobeat faithful’s in Indianapolis . His sound bore a close similarity to that of the original Afrobeat sound created by Fela Kuti in the early 70s.The high point of 2020 for Rilo came when he lent his voice to the End sars protest in Nigeria, the song and the video went viral.

7. Hamzy west

Hamzy west started the year quite strong with the release of his single and then followed it up with the release of the music video much later in the year. We were really expecting to see much more from Hamzy west but his EP was pushed to the first quarter of 2021. Hamzy west also made some very meaningful appearances in events and shows for 2020 and earned himself a spot on this list.

6. Timmy Rochy

Timmy Rochy put in a very productive year with the release of singles like “Dem say” and “International Kondo” alongside T-ME Singsong. His self titled EP has been in the works for while and the tracklist reveals massive singles featuring the likes of Dotman and General Pype. Through out the year, Timmy Rochy was a constant feature in events in and outside Indianapolis while also making appearances at shows and clubs.

5. Bowyrude

This is by far the number one French artist in Indianapolis . The Togolese artists is a regular on chats in Indianapolis and did not disappoint in 2020. The only reason he is not further up the list is the fact that he barely appears in shows and events in Indianapolis USA, hence we are not able to determine how much fans in this city engage with him while on stage . After speaking to him, it looks like this is about to change in 2021 as his management is on the verge of releasing schedules for a few shows and events he will he will be headlining in 2021. He is a multiple award winner in his home country of Togo.

4. Teeklef

Teeklef always seems to be around every year and even in a pandemic year with all the distractions around he still able to put in a very impressive year comparable with previous years. His music videos “A prayer for Black America” detailing the social injustice and the struggles of the black man in USA, which was released during the George Floyd protest and another single “Wanting” featuring Camerudeboy really shaped the music scene in Indiana USA in 2020. He also released a Joint album titled “NonZeroSum” with Skypp and played a huge part in Afrorolls massive single “Trianna”.

3. Afrorolls

Afrorolls had a hugely successful year with the release of his “Don Corleone” EP. We were not only impressed with the content of the EP but we were also taken aback on how organized the entire process was. From the photoshoot to the actual release party Afrorolls managed to pull off the “Don Corleone” look. Wizkid’s longtime Producer and friend Samklef was also in Indianapolis, USA to witness the release of the EP. Afrorolls continues to set the pace and set trends with his music.

2. Olawalekentucky

We were particularly impressed with Olawalekentucky this year. He seemed to have gotten a lot of things right with his Branding in 2020. The Brand is looking Prim and proper. He also packs a crowd and is able to fill up descent sized event halls and venues. This is something you cannot take for granted. His Publicity skills is far superior to what i expect from a local artist in Indiana, and if there is one thing we learnt from Olawalekentucky this year, it is the ability to keep your fans entertained and thrilled on social media. He has by far one of the most engaging social media pages in Indianapolis and is attracting a lot of business to himself. He also appeared in multiple paid events in 2020.

  1. T-ME Singsong

In our opinion T-ME singsong had the strongest year in 2020 releasing his much anticipated “Take II” EP and moving on to become the most booked artist in Indianapolis for 2020. One can argue that while many artists were refusing to be booked for events , T-ME and his team were busy scheduling events, but the truth is that the number of private shows and parties T-ME Singsong was booked for shows how much his influence has grown in the city and how much people crave for his music. He also released strong singles like “Low” and “international Kondo” while featuring in almost everyone’s project. “Holiday” by Zarnotti and “Tonight” by Mr. Carter are some of the most notable. His “Superwoman” video featured top business women from the city of Indianapolis.

Tell us below who you think Indiana’s strongest artist for 2020 is and also name artists we may not have added to the list.

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Teeklef and Camerudeboy collaborate once again on another really good song. Both artists have known each other for quite a while and have collaborated which each other in the past. Wanting is a really good addition to the songs that have been released in 2020.

The nicely put together video matches the energy of the video and it’s lovely to see these men dress up nicely. Go ahead and check out the video below. We anticipate more music from Teeklef and Camerudeboy as they both say they are looking to put more work out before the turn of the year.

 

Nigerian-American Hip-Hop and afrobeat artist Teeklef releases a new single entitled “A Prayer for (Black) America”. The song is a commentary on the current state of the U.S. and the world and asks difficult questions about civil rights and social justice.

Teeklef is not known to be politically explicitly, but as a Black man in America, an immigrant, and a father, it is important to add to the chorus of brave and talented voices currently speaking up against systemic racism.

After the gruesome murder of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, Teeklef took to the streets in his current home of Indianapolis and stood with protesters. Frustrated by the difficulties presented to the Black community in the US and inspired by the reactions of so many people calling for change, he returned to his studio and wrote this song. “A Prayer for (Black) America” is a meditation on life as a Black person in America, but it is also a call to action to all of America to stand up, march for equality, and ‘say their names.’

Recall that George Floyd was choked to death by cops on the streets of Minneapolis sparking worldwide outrage and outcry against police brutality. Similarly, Breonna Taylor was fatally shot by Louisville Metro Police Department officers while asleep in her bedroom after they had forcefully entered into her home.

All proceeds will be donated to Black Lives Matter

Ladies and Gentlemen Teeklef is at it again. After just having received 3 Awards at the Just concluded Afrique Entertainment Awards, Teeklef releases another video to kick start his year.

The Afrique Entertainment Award Winner of Best Afro-beat Artist, Best R&B, and Artist of the year is known for his working really hard and pushing himself to the limit. Teeklef will be looking to surpass his recent achievements in next years awards.

Speaking on his award on Facebook and attending with his daughter, Teeklef Said “… baby girl is the closest person that sees how hard I really work behind the scenes. it’s only right that she was there to see me to bag the trophies. s/o to the AEA Awards committee and the fans who voted for us … #girldad #aeaawards ”

In the space of a few weeks, Teeklef drops another video titled “Last night in Paris”. The video looks like it was shot outside the USA. Teeklef is definitely up to something in 2020 and it will be a matter of time before we found out. There has been a number of collaborations with acts outside of the USA and content from outside the USA in 2019 and we hope the Indiana based artist can keep up the trend in 2020.

Last night in Paris is a mix of Afrobeat and R&B something that Teeklef terms “Afropop”. The video features Sweedish model Sophia Clintestedt Smith. The Nigerian artist remains one of the leading musicians in Indianapolis USA.

He is one of the leading musicians in the city of Indianapolis USA and has a huge fanbase in the heart of the city. He was also nominated in 5 categories including Artist of the year at the upcoming AE awards after touring parts of Europe this year. You all can tell I am talking of no other than Teeklef right?

Ladies and Gentlemen the wait is Over. Teeklef has dropped the video to his XO single released earlier in the year.

‘XO’ sees the Indiana Star re-focusing his production and writing with a harder Hip-Hop edge.

Following on a tumultuous past couple of years personally and professionally, Teeklef expresses his feelings of loss and struggle through this song .

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Indianapolis is buzzing and brimming with fresh Afrobeat talents. These talents can hold it down on any stage on the planet. Here is a list of the freshest songs out of indianapolis so far.

  1. Afrorolls – Alasiko
  2. Bowyrude – Ton Pied Mon Pied
  3. Mash up International &Teeklef – Killa wine
  4. Rilo – Loke
  5. D Feezy – Deserve This
  6. Mr Duke & Camerudeboy – Body
  7. Mr. icey- Shut Down
  8. Kflecz – It’s alright
  9. Koros – Lemme Take you
  10. Deecy & Kpesh – Kele
  11. Afrorolls & Timisingsong – Motiwaloke

Play the full compilation below

Download

Swedish DJ/producer collective Mash Up International is back with the single “Killa Wine” ft. Nigerian/American/Naptown singer Teeklef!

This flirtatious and sweet Afropop song with the aggressive title “Killa Wine” is the result of Mash Up International discovering the talented artist Teeklef via Spotify.

Teeklef who was on tour recently is set to release his project which he describes as a revelation of the ordeal he passed through in the hands of his ex wife. “I am finally ready to tell the world what i passed through in the last year. It was a difficult journey and i am glad it is finally over”, Teeklef said .

Buy Killa Wine

Teeklef serves us the visuals to his newest single titled want it. The USA based Nigerian star who just dropped his Afro-pop project after having completed a tour to several countries is expected to reach his peak this year. I am really excited for Teeklef, it’s been a long time coming and things seem to be looking up for him.

Want it is a dope single featuring sample vocals from Tuface’s hit single “ For instance ”. The video is very befitting of the song.

Nice video i must say. check it out below.

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Nigeria-raised, Indianapolis-based R&B artist Teeklef released the AfroPop EP on April 26th. Following Singles ‘Calling’ and ‘Want It’, the singer/producer has been on a world tour promoting his newest project. Entitled Afropop, the EP embraces the elements of Afrobeat and pop music that have influenced Teeklef’s process.

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Listen to Teeklef’s Afropop EP here

In 2018, following a long-awaited return trip to his birthplace of Lagos, Nigeria, Teeklef returned to the studio energized. He began writing and recording what would be the beginning of a series of EPs, which reflect the diversity of cultures that make up Teeklef as a musician and as a human.

‘Calling’, a song that flows from memories of driving the streets of Lagos at night, starts the EP. ‘Feel Like’ expresses his relationship with the hometown he has
been away from for years. ‘Want It’, the 3rd single, brings a turn in the artist’s attitude, and ‘I’m Ready’ brings us to a catharsis.

Teeklef is embracing both his homes, Africa and America, and his multiple musical influences. Sonically, it merges the sounds of Afrobeat and Hip-hop, and lyrically it flips between Pidgin, Igbo, Yoruba and English. A second chapter, AfroSoul, is planned for later this year.

The AfroPop EP is available on 4/26/19 via HipNavi Sound.

 

Watch clips of one of Indiana’s most prolific acts Teeklef on stage at Club Kalakutah  . Club Kalakutah is known for hosting guest artiste from in and around the city . Last weekend a Nigerian music Icon – Dr SID also performed . Teeklef adds to the illustrious list of acts that have graced the stage at Club Kalakutah .

Contact us on this page if you want to make a club appearance or promote your music in USA.

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I had a blast this weekend as Teeklef and his HipNavi crew hosted his core fans to a concert / Listening party . The event was held at the famous Spotlight Indy, a small concert venue inside the humble creations studio.

Teeklef kept the ladies dancing and jubilant all night with his sonorous voice and stage presence . There were other performances by notable acts like Terrance Anderson , Khiry Managan , Keiana Whatley , Camerudeboy and FOXDLEGND. Other notable celebrities present were Video director Tai Payne , DJ Mary Jane most of whom have been featured on this blog and my play list in the recent past . A lot of fans stayed to have pictures at the end. It was a lot of fun . Teeklef continues his Tour to major cities , visit his page @teeklef to find out the next tour destination.

I was granted an all access passage and was privileged to take exclusive backstage pictures  . These are pictures from Teeklef’s Afropop Listening party. Please view and share them with your friends . Also do not forget to tag @mazi_ifeanyii as Photo credit on Instagram when you share photos .

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This is the season for artistes and their babes to pepper us on their videos . Davido started it with Chioma ; Wizkid and Tiwa poured stew everywhere; and  then most recently Adekunle Gold and his long term girl friend Simisola broke the internet with their own video .

After watching this Teeklef’s video and knowing the latest trend in the Industry , i am left wondering if this is the lady Teeklef has been hiding from us for years . Please if you have answers to this question , leave a comment below..

When you ask people what songs they think is Teeklef’s best music , most people especially the ladies scream, APART !! without even thinking about it. Don’t get me wrong , Teeklef is an amazing act and most of his songs like “ Slow Down ” and Day 1 have either made it to my playlist or been on repeat on other streaming platforms. Having said that , i believe Teeklef is looking to replicate the successes of APART with his new single  “ CALLING ”. He is one of the most versatile artiste i have come across.

“ Calling ” is the first single from Teeklef’s Afro-pop EP. It is a heavy Afro-pop song and the vibe is really fresh . More interestingly, he’ll be following it up with a World Tour in the spring showcasing his music and the music of various other African artists living in America and abroad.

Let’s hear what you think about this one. For me, i feel it is has a lot of potential already

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Here is the Recap of Mr Duke & Friends courtesy of Bella Marcia . Mr Duke and Friends was held at Bella Marcia, IN , USA on the 25th of November 2018. It featured top acts from Indianapolis  like Ady Mob , Abdul , Khiry Managan , Timmy Roche , Kolly Bizzle , Neno , Teeklef , Stella Labelle , Detox , and Mr duke . There was also a Fashion display by the Fashion house ” Ada by Vanessa “.

@Shotbyhooty

Teeklef is quickly becoming a stand out brand in Indianapolis. After going through a tumultuous year ridden with some personal battles , i am happy to see Teeklef winning and finally back to doing what he knows best . A few weeks ago he sold out his Made in Nigeria concert and today he is putting out the video to his previously released single ” Day one ” .

According to Teeklef , Day one is about family , loyalty and your willingness to give and be there for the people you love. What i like most about the video is that it elevates the city of Indianapolis. The beautiful graffiti on the street corners, the sight of happy people and the fact that it buttresses the everyday life of the average person from indiana . The song is produced by Svdagawd and the video is directed by Tahlia Loreal and shot by Bobbeedarko .

 

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Mr Duke is an Indianapolis based Nigerian artist who has carved a niche for himself in the music industry in Indiana. He has decided to host his friends and fans to a Night of music. The event is scheduled for the 25th of November at Bella Marcia and it features some of the best emerging acts in Naptown. Artists billed to perform are Koros , Teeklef, Bowyrude , Feyi , Timmy Rochie , Stella La Bella , Detox , Neno , Kolly bizzle and Ady Mob . There will also be a presentation titled ” Ada” by Vanessa . The show is sponsored by Hidashi co. and Serkes and hosted by one of Naptowns top most hosts AO. It promises to be a special night and i am very sure it will live up to the hype.