Alte Music: An Overview in 2023

We’ve always wondered how the sound came about, here is a comprehensive review of Alte Music.

Alte music is a sub-genre of Nigerian music that emerged in the mid-2010s. It is a fusion of different musical styles, including alternative rock, R&B, electronic music, and Afro beats. Alte music is characterized by its unconventional and experimental sound, its emphasis on individuality and self-expression, and its rejection of mainstream music norms.

Origins of Alte Music

Alte music emerged in Lagos, Nigeria, in the mid-2010s. It was pioneered by a group of young, creative artists who were dissatisfied with the mainstream Nigerian music scene and sought to create their own unique sound. These artists were often influenced by Afrobeat, Western music genres, such as alternative rock and R&B, as well as by Nigerian and African music traditions.

The term “Alte” is short for “alternative,” and was originally used to describe the alternative lifestyle of the artists who created the music. However, over time, the term became synonymous with the music itself, and Alte music came to refer to this new sub-genre of Nigerian music.

Characteristics of Alte Music

Alte music is characterized by its experimental sound, which draws from a wide range of musical genres and traditions. It often features electronic beats, distorted guitar riffs, and unconventional song structures. Alte artists often sing in English, as well as in Nigerian languages such as Yoruba and Pidgin.

One of the defining features of Alte music is its emphasis on individuality and self-expression. Alte artists often reject the traditional Nigerian music industry model, which values commercial success and mainstream appeal. Instead, they prioritize artistic freedom and authenticity, and create music that reflects their own unique experiences and perspectives.

Another characteristic of Alte music is its rejection of mainstream music norms. Alte artists often eschew the flashy, materialistic image that is often associated with Nigerian music, instead opting for a more understated, individualistic style. They also tend to be more politically and socially conscious than their mainstream counterparts, and often address issues such as corruption, inequality, and social injustice in their music.

Key Alte Artists

Over the past few years, Alte music has gained a significant following in Nigeria and beyond. Some of the key Alte artists include:

  1. Odunsi (The Engine): Odunsi is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and producer who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Alte music. His music blends elements of R&B, electronic music, and Afro beats, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. He has released several successful projects, including his debut album “Rare” in 2018.
  2. Santi: Santi (formerly known as Ozzy B) is a Nigerian rapper and singer who is known for his distinctive style and sound. His music blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music, and often features dark, moody beats and introspective lyrics. He has released several successful projects, including his debut album “Mandy & The Jungle” in 2019.
  3. Lady Donli: Lady Donli is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who is known for her soulful vocals and poetic lyrics. Her music draws from a wide range of influences, including jazz, funk, and Afro beats, and often addresses themes of love, self-discovery, and African identity. She has released several successful projects, including her debut album “Enjoy Your Life” in 2019.
  4. Tay Iwar: Tay Iwar is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and producer who is known for his dreamy, atmospheric sound. His music blends elements of R&B, soul, and electronic music, and often features introspective lyrics and lush soundscapes. He has released several successful projects, including his debut album “Gemini” in 2018.
  5. Tems: Tems is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who rose to fame in 2018 with her breakout single “Mr Rebel.” Her music is characterized by her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, and draws from a wide range of influences, including R&B, alternative rock, and Afro beats. She has collaborated with several notable artists, including Wizkid and Khalid, and has released several successful projects, including her debut EP “For Broken Ears” in 2020.
  6. Ayra Starr: Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who burst onto the scene in early 2021 with her self-titled debut EP. Her music blends elements of R&B, pop, and Afro beats, and often features upbeat, infectious melodies and empowering lyrics. She has been praised for her unique sound and confident, youthful energy, and is widely regarded as one of the most promising young artists in Nigeria today.
Impact of Alte Music

Alte music has had a significant impact on the Nigerian music industry and beyond. It has helped to diversify the Nigerian music landscape, and has provided a platform for young, creative artists to express themselves and connect with audiences on a deeper level. It has also helped to challenge traditional notions of what Nigerian music can be, and has pushed the boundaries of creativity and innovation in the industry.

Alte music has also had a broader cultural impact, reflecting the changing attitudes and values of young people in Nigeria and beyond. It has helped to promote individuality and self-expression, and has encouraged young people to embrace their own unique identities and perspectives. It has also helped to raise awareness of important social and political issues, and has given a voice to marginalized communities and groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Alte music is a vibrant and innovative sub-genre of Nigerian music that has emerged in recent years. It is characterized by its experimental sound, its emphasis on individuality and self-expression, and its rejection of mainstream music norms. Alte music has had a significant impact on the Nigerian music industry and beyond, and has provided a platform for young, creative artists to express themselves and connect with audiences on a deeper level. With its unique sound and emphasis on authenticity and creativity, Alte music is sure to continue to captivate audiences and shape the musical landscape in the years ahead.