For years, Nigerian artists have dominated international music charts, but at the 2025 Grammy Awards, a new narrative emerged producers are stepping into the global spotlight. Leading this shift is Malcolm Kolade Olagundoye, popularly known as Chopstix, whose work on Chris Brown’s 11:11 (Deluxe) earned him a Grammy for Best Global R&B Album.
This win isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a defining moment for Nigerian producers, proving they are not just behind-the-scenes contributors but key architects of modern global music.
Chopstix’s musical journey began in Jos, Plateau State, where he honed his craft through church music before studying Fine and Applied Arts at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. His breakthrough came in 2012 with Ice Prince’s ‘Aboki’, a track that cemented his reputation as a hitmaker in the Nigerian music scene.
Over the years, he expanded his influence, producing for top-tier artists like Burna Boy, Mr. Eazi, Rick Ross, and Sean Paul. While he had previously been nominated for his work on Burna Boy’s African Giant and Love, Damini, it was his production on Chris Brown’s ‘Nightmares’ featuring Byron Messia that finally earned him a Grammy.
The success of ‘Nightmares’ is a testament to how African producers are influencing global music trends. The song seamlessly blends Afrobeats percussion, soulful R&B elements, and global instrumentation, showcasing the rich, evolving sounds of contemporary African music.
As Afrobeats continues its international takeover, Chopstix’s win solidifies the role of Nigerian producers in shaping the world’s biggest records. With this historic achievement, it’s clear that Nigerian producers are no longer in the shadows they are now key players in global music innovation.
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