Nigerian Rising Star Noonzi Teases Upcoming Album as “Maria” Surpasses 50,000 Streams on Spotify
Nigerian music sensation Noonzi is making waves far beyond his home country. Born and raised in Lagos with roots in Zaria, Kaduna State, the fast-rising artist has built a signature sound that blends R&B, Afrobeats, and Jazz; and it’s starting to pay off. His latest single, “Maria”, has just crossed 50,000 streams on Spotify, a milestone that cements him as one to watch on the global stage.
Noonzi’s journey into music began in his primary school choir, where his natural talents for singing, acting, and stage performance took root. Over the years, he has drawn inspiration from legends such as Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey influences that can be heard in his soulful melodies and vibrant Afrobeat rhythms. His discography includes fan favorites like Anything, Shake U, Love U, Do You Feel Me, Beautiful, and Chop Am, as well as a three-track EP titled Can’t Stop.
Speaking on his creative process, Noonzi says he thrives on positive energy, good weather, great company, and love elements that heavily shape his music. “I’m big on positive energy…these elements play a huge role in my creative process,” he explains. Currently, he is putting the finishing touches on his much-anticipated debut album, set for release later in 2025.
The project promises a journey through love, celebration, humanity, and peace, reflecting his vision for music that connects deeply with listeners while getting them on their feet. And while the path hasn’t been without challenges from industry criticism to navigating the business side of music. Noonzi sees every obstacle as a stepping stone. “I face criticism all the time…I believe it makes you better in so many ways,” he says.
Looking ahead, he hopes to collaborate with industry heavyweights including Tiwa Savage, Muni Long, Davido, Tyla, and Chris Brown. Marketing, he admits, is an area he wishes he had prioritised earlier in his career, but his focus now is on pushing his sound to a wider audience.
Quitting, however, has never been on the table. “I have never considered quitting music as it was always therapy and a passion,” Noonzi affirms. With “Maria” steadily gaining traction and his debut album on the horizon, it’s clear that the UK and the rest of the world will be hearing a lot more from this rising Nigerian star.