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Shoday Dominates Nigeria Apple Music with Both No. 1 and No. 2 Songs!

today14 January 2026 1

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Nigerian breakout star Shoday has taken over the Apple Music Nigeria Top Songs chart by storm, landing both the No. 1 and No. 2 positions simultaneously with his hit tracks “Nakupenda” and “Paparazzi”, signaling a defining moment in his rising career.

In a music landscape where competition for chart dominance is fierce, Shoday’s recent achievement stands out as a remarkable milestone. At No. 1 on the Nigeria Apple Music Top Songs chart is “Nakupenda”, an energetic and star-studded collaboration featuring TxC, Davido, Scotts Maphuma, and Zlatan, whose blend of catchy rhythms and cross-border appeal has resonated strongly with listeners across Nigeria and beyond. Right behind it at No. 2 is “Paparazzi”, a smooth and melodic track featuring fellow rising star FOLA, which continues to grow in streams and fan engagement.

This back-to-back chart success not only highlights Shoday’s ability to deliver music that connects with a wide audience but also reflects his evolving presence in Afrobeats and Nigerian pop culture. His rise is rooted in a steady build-up over several years, beginning with early breakthrough moments such as the viral single “Caution” and its popular remix with Skiibii, which showcased his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with infectious beats. That early momentum earned him recognition from platforms such as Apple Music’s Up Next, spotlighting him as one of Nigeria’s most promising new artists and helping propel his career forward.

Shoday’s journey into the music scene began with a deep passion for storytelling and rhythm, drawing on influences from Afro-fusion, Afropop, and soulful melodies that speak to both street and mainstream audiences. He steadily built a loyal fanbase by releasing a string of engaging singles that earned millions of streams on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. His ability to blend genres and collaborate with top artists has played a key role in expanding his reach.

The current chart achievement also comes at a time when Nigerian music continues to assert itself as a dominant force in Africa’s digital music sphere. While global superstars like Asake, Wizkid, and Davido have historically led local charts with massive streaming numbers, emerging artists like Shoday are now staking their claim, making significant inroads on major platforms. His success with “Nakupenda” and “Paparazzi” demonstrates how fresh voices are reshaping the sound of Afrobeats and capturing the attention of a growing audience.

As Shoday’s music continues to climb charts and attract new listeners, this dual occupancy of the top two spots on Apple Music Nigeria is not just a momentary high point; it’s a clear indication of his rising star power and the momentum he’s built. With his blend of street-inspired energy and melodic versatility, Shoday is poised to be one of Nigeria’s most influential artists heading into 2026 and beyond.

Written by: Adedoyin Adedara

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