How to make a Nigerian hit song

What does it take to make a hit song? A song that rules the airwaves and rocks at the clubs? Learn how in 10 quick steps.

1. Get a simple hook

Hooks don’t come any simpler than one with a catchphrase, especially one that is easy to remember. The catchphrase could be a common object, a name, a drink or just a street slang.

Hit songs that have used catchphrases include ‘Johnny’, ‘Kedike’, ‘Sho Le’, ‘Kukere’, ‘Shoki’, ‘Hennessy’ e.t.c.

2. Write a lot of songs

To able to craft a hit song, an artiste needs to continually be  writing and recording songs. Why write loads of songs? You never know which one will be a hit.

3. Infuse pidgin English/local language 

Many musicians try to infuse local dialect in their lyrics or sing completely in a local language.

Your audience will easily relate to it and those who don’t understand it are fascinated by it.

4. Be spontaneous

Once you find that you have an idea for a new song begin working on it whether by freestyling or jumping on the mic.

Write down ideas instantly on a notepad or phone. Your incessant freestyle and ideas can be put together and worked on.

5. Get a good producer

A producer crafts the beat for your song and polishes it. He/she may also help in writing a song or just help with the process in case you feel stuck.

A music producer will make or mar your song, so choose carefully!

6 Get a unique dance

Dance has enabled Nigerian music to cut across borders because dance is a universal language understood by all.

Hit songs that have used this include example: ‘Oya Dab’, ‘Skelewu’, ‘Shoki’, ‘Azonto’ and ‘Alingo’,

7 Always freestyle

Freestyling is good when you are working on a track, most especially when you already have the beat at hand.

Freestyle helps your immediate ideas to flow. Your incessant freestyle and ideas can be put together and worked on.

8 Record and rehearse over and over

Recording your track is not the end; keep working and fine-tuning it.

Rehearsing will familiarise you with all your sounds and techniques in order to perform better.

9 Infuse love and sexuality

Love songs have the power to captivate the soul. So adding a little romance to your song will always be helpful.

10. Stay humble and learn

As an artiste you must always be humble and know there is always something new to learn.

Being humble and subtle is one of the keys to being on the path to crafting a great song.

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