But what tools make this possible? Nigerian producers rely on a mix of digital audio workstations (DAWs), plugins, hardware, and instruments to craft the rich soundscapes we hear today. This article takes a deep dive into the top audio production tools Nigerian producers use, highlighting why they are essential for creating chart-topping hits.
1. Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
At the heart of every modern studio session is a DAW. Nigerian producers use DAWs to record, edit, mix, and master tracks. The choice of DAW often comes down to workflow and familiarity.
FL Studio (Fruity Loops)
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Arguably the most popular DAW in Nigeria. Producers like Sarz, Pheelz, Rexxie, and Young Jonn are known for using FL Studio. Its loop-based workflow makes it beginner-friendly but powerful enough for professionals.
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Key advantage: Easy beat-making, powerful piano roll, and vast plugin support.
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Logic Pro X
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Preferred by producers working on Mac systems. It’s widely used by international Nigerian acts like Maleek Berry and London.
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Key advantage: Clean interface, powerful stock instruments, and integration with Apple ecosystem.
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Ableton Live
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Though less common, it’s gaining popularity among experimental producers. Its session view allows live manipulation of sounds, useful for Afrobeats producers blending electronic and traditional elements.
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👉 Pro Tip: Many Nigerian producers start with FL Studio and later diversify into Logic Pro or Ableton as they grow.
2. Virtual Instruments (VSTs) and Plugins
Plugins give Nigerian producers the flexibility to craft unique sounds. Whether it’s replicating African percussion, layering synths, or creating atmospheric textures, VSTs are essential.
Omnisphere – Known for its massive sound library, perfect for atmospheric pads and melodic layers.
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Serum – A go-to for modern synth sounds, especially in Afropop and dance tracks.
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Kontakt (by Native Instruments) – Hosts countless libraries, including African drums and orchestral sounds.
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Gross Beat – A favorite in FL Studio, often used for creative time manipulation effects in Afrobeats.
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Waves Plugins – Industry-standard for mixing and mastering, used for EQ, compression, and vocal processing.
3. Nigerian Percussion Packs & Sound Kits
Authenticity in Afrobeats comes from rhythm. Producers integrate traditional Nigerian percussion instruments into digital sessions through sound packs or live recordings.
Talking Drum (Gangan) – Adds that Yoruba flavor, commonly heard in Wizkid and Burna Boy tracks.
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Shekere & Congas – Used to create danceable grooves.
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Log Drums – Especially popular in Amapiano-inspired Nigerian hits, powered by producers like Rexxie.
Today, many producers create and sell their own Afrobeats drum kits online, making it easier for upcoming beatmakers to sound authentic.
4. Hardware Essentials
Even in the digital age, Nigerian producers still depend on hardware for quality sound.
MIDI Keyboards – Popular brands like Akai MPK Mini and Novation Launchkey allow quick chord progressions and melody creation.
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Studio Monitors – Yamaha HS8 and KRK Rokit are common in Nigerian studios for accurate sound reproduction.
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Audio Interfaces – Focusrite Scarlett and Apollo Twin ensure clean recordings of vocals and instruments.
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Microphones – Condenser mics like Audio-Technica AT2020 and Neumann TLM 103 are favorites for crisp vocals.
5. Mobile Production Tools
Interestingly, Nigerian producers are increasingly making beats on-the-go. With apps like BandLab, FL Studio Mobile, and GarageBand, some hits start right on a smartphone before being polished in professional studios. This mobility reflects Nigeria’s fast-paced, hustle-driven creative culture.
6. The Human Touch: Live Instrumentation
While DAWs dominate, many Nigerian producers integrate live instrumentation to give tracks organic warmth. Guitars, bass, horns, and local percussion are layered to complement digital sounds. For instance:
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Fiokee (the guitarist behind countless Afrobeats hits) often collaborates with producers.
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Live horns and saxophones bring jazzy vibes to Afropop tracks.
This blend of digital precision and live energy defines the Nigerian sound.
7. Collaboration & Cloud-Based Tools
Producers in Lagos, Abuja, and London often collaborate remotely. Tools like:
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Splice (sample library & project sharing)
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Google Drive / Dropbox (file sharing)
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Zoom/WhatsApp voice notes (yes, even WhatsApp!)
These enable Nigerian producers to collaborate with international acts seamlessly.
8. Mixing & Mastering Tools
The final polish on Nigerian songs comes from professional mixing and mastering. Common tools include:
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FabFilter Pro-Q3 (EQ)
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Waves SSL Compressor
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iZotope Ozone (Mastering Suite)
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Slate Digital Plugins
This ensures tracks meet global streaming standards for Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Why These Tools Matter for Nigerian Producers
The reason Nigerian music keeps dominating globally is not just creativity—it’s the tools that enable world-class production quality. From Wizkid’s silky Afropop to Burna Boy’s Afro-fusion and Davido’s street-inspired bangers, production tools help bridge tradition with innovation.
For young, aspiring producers, starting with just a laptop and FL Studio can be enough. But as you grow, investing in quality plugins, sound packs, and hardware will level up your sound.
The Nigerian sound has become the heartbeat of global pop music. While talent and creativity remain the driving forces, the right production tools make it possible to consistently create international hits. Whether it’s FL Studio, Omnisphere, live talking drums, or simply a good condenser mic, these tools define the Afrobeats wave.
👉 If you’re an aspiring Nigerian producer, start small, master your DAW, and keep building your toolkit. Who knows? The next global Afrobeats anthem might just come from your laptop.