Qing Madi Joins Billboard’s 21 Under 21 List as a Rising Star: Billboard magazine’s annual 21 Under 21 list shines a spotlight on the brightest young talents in the music industry. This year, seventeen-year-old Nigerian singer-songwriter Qing Madi joins the ranks alongside rising stars like Tate McRae, NewJeans, and 4batz.
These artists, representing diverse genres and stages in their careers, share a common thread: they’re primed for breakout success. Many, including Qing, have already begun making significant waves online and pushing the boundaries within their respective styles.
Qing Madi broke out in 2023 with her debut self-titled EP and first U.S. tour as part of fellow Nigerian artist BNXN’s “Sincerely BNXN Tour”. During this tour, she earned co-signs from prominent artists like Ayra Starr and Wizkid. In May, she collaborated with Chlöe for a remix of the standout track “Vision,” which arrived with a self-co-directed music video.
Kendrick Lamar’s music has significantly influenced Qing’s songwriting approach. She notes, “He basically taught me how to write.” However, she holds special admiration for Burna Boy and Wizkid, both of whom she grew up listening to. Qing says they are “pushing the Afrobeats culture [and opening] the doors for me to dream and aspire to be more than my surroundings.”
For more on the latest music stars under 21, check out Billboard’s full list here.
Listen to Qing Madi’s latest tracks on Spotify and watch the “Vision” remix featuring Chlöe on YouTube.
Read the full list here.
