Over the years, numerous Nigerian musicians have ventured into Nollywood, taking on various roles and giving their fans something new to discuss.
1. **Tiwa Savage**: The renowned singer and songwriter, Tiwa Savage, has appeared in several films. She made her acting debut in the MTV series “Shuga” and appeared in “Jenifa’s Diary.” In February 2023, Savage announced her collaboration with Meji Alabi in co-producing the film “Water and Garri,” inspired by her second extended play. Set in Cape Coast, Ghana, the film featured Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde, with Savage also performing the original soundtrack and serving as executive producer. The story follows Aisha, a U.S.-based fashion designer returning home to confront past guilt.
2. **Skales**: Afrobeat singer Skales, born Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, recently joined the film industry. He made his acting debut in the upcoming thriller “Seeking Justice,” directed by JJC Skillz, featuring Gabriel Afolayan, Funky Mallam, and others. The film promises suspense and intrigue, with further details yet to be released.
3. **Falz**: Folarin Falana, widely known as Falz, is a rapper, songwriter, and actor. He gained recognition with his comedic rapping and acting skills, playing Segun in “Jenifa’s Diary.” Falz won the African Magic Viewers Choice Award for Best Actor in a Comedy Movie or Series in 2016 and Best Supporting Actor in 2018 for “New Money.” He has appeared in several films, including “10 Days in Sun City,” “Brotherhood,” “Merry Men,” and “Chief Daddy.”
4. **Simi**: In 2019, Simisola Bolatito Kosoko Ogunleye, known as Simi, made her acting debut in Kunle Afolayan’s film “Mokalik,” playing an intriguing role. The film follows 11-year-old Ponmile, who spends a day as an apprentice at a mechanic workshop, facing a crucial decision about his future.
5. **Chike**: R&B singer Chike Ezekpeazu Osebuka, known as Chike, gained fame from “Project Fame West Africa” and “The Voice Nigeria.” He ventured into acting with his debut as Mayoma Badmus in the telenovela “Battleground” and also appeared in “Gang of Lagos” as Ify.
6. **Reminisce**: Nigerian rapper Remilekun Khalid Safaru, known as Reminisce, made his acting debut in the 2018 film “King of Boys,” directed by Kemi Adetiba. He played the villain Makanaki, a Nigerian mobster, a role well-received by audiences and critics.
7. **Waje**: Aituaje Iruobe, known as Waje, appeared in the drama series “She Must Be Obeyed,” portraying Xcite. Directed by Akindele, the series explores the hidden challenges within the music industry, including bullying, exploitative contracts, power struggles, and rivalries.
8. **Yemi Alade**: Yemi Eberechi Alade, known as Yemi Alade, debuted as an actress in the 2020 film “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” directed by JJC Skillz and Akindele. She played Mogambe, the head of a drug trafficking gang. The film tells the story of twin sisters reunited by dramatic events and features an ensemble cast including Chioma Akpotha, Eniola Badmus, and Mercy Aigbe.