Nigeria has never failed in birthing groundbreaking music talents who redefine sound and culture. Among the latest wave is FirstKlaz, a fast‑rising Afro‑fusion artist whose unique sound is reshaping the Nigerian and African music space.
With his innovative style called “Gen‑Z Fuji”, FirstKlaz is quickly carving a niche that resonates with young audiences while paying homage to traditional roots.
This article explores his biography, career journey, top songs, collaborations, and impact on the music industry.
Biography: Who is FirstKlaz?
Full Name: Joseph Justice Esla
Stage Name: FirstKlaz
Date of Birth: Early 2000s (Age: 23 as of 2025)
Place of Birth: Abuja, Nigeria
FirstKlaz’s stage name originated from secondary school, where he was fondly nicknamed “First Class” due to his academic brilliance.
His music roots can be traced to the church choir at the age of 10, where he developed his vocal strength and performance skills.
Over the years, he transitioned into professional music, bringing with him an ear for experimentation and a deep love for blending sounds.
Career Journey
FirstKlaz began his professional journey by experimenting with Afrobeat, Fuji, Hip‑Hop, and R&B, creating what he later branded as Gen‑Z Fuji.
His style stands out for its fusion of talking drums, jazzy horns, Afrobeat rhythms, and cultural chants – making his songs both nostalgic and fresh.
Breakthrough Moment
2024 marked his official breakthrough with the single “Gen‑Z Fuji”. The track went viral on TikTok and Facebook, gaining thousands of streams and sparking conversations about his innovative sound.
His recognition grew further when he released the remix “Gen‑Z Fuji II” featuring Fuji legend Terry Apala, a collaboration that cemented his credibility within the Nigerian music industry.
Major Collaborations
Joeboy on “Gen‑Z Faaji” – a vibrant Afro‑fusion anthem celebrating youth culture.
Zlatan & Jeriq on “Gen‑Z Arewazobia” – a trilingual anthem uniting Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.
Oluwa Delight on “Trabaye” – a spiritually conscious street‑soul record.
With these collaborations, FirstKlaz is bridging the gap between Gen‑Z vibes and mainstream Afrobeat culture.
Top Songs by FirstKlaz
If you are discovering FirstKlaz for the first time, here are his standout tracks:
- Gen‑Z Fuji (2024) – His viral breakout track blending Afrobeat with Fuji.
- Gen‑Z Fuji II ft. Terry Apala (2024) – A remix highlighting tradition with modern flair.
- Gen‑Z Faaji ft. Joeboy (2024) – A youthful party anthem.
- Alhaji (2024) – A nostalgic Afrobeat record weaving in Northern Nigerian influences and the iconic NTA News theme.
- Gen‑Z Arewazobia ft. Zlatan & Jeriq (2025) – A cross‑cultural anthem celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.
- Trabaye ft. Oluwa Delight (2025) – A spiritually inspiring street anthem.
These records reflect his versatility, cultural pride, and ability to speak directly to Nigeria’s younger generation.
Style & Influence
What makes FirstKlaz stand out is his cultural innovation. He blends Fuji – a genre traditionally associated with older audiences – with Afrobeat and modern rhythms, he has created a new sub‑genre that appeals to Gen‑Z. His songs are not only danceable but also rich in storytelling, heritage, and youthful expression.
Recognition & Media Features
FirstKlaz has been featured on top platforms like The Lagos Review, Purp Kulture, GRUNGECAKE Africa, and Jukebox Music.
His style has been praised as the future of Afro‑fusion, with critics noting how he bridges generational gaps in music. With each release, he grows his fan base both locally and internationally.
The Nigerian music continues to dominate the global scene, and FirstKlaz is positioning himself as one of the next global exports.
His unique sound, collaborations with industry heavyweights, and ability to connect with Gen‑Z audiences place him at the forefront of Afro‑fusion’s future.
For music lovers, FirstKlaz is more than just an artist – he’s a movement. Keep an eye on his upcoming projects as he continues to push the boundaries of Nigerian music.