Artists Who Collaborate with Nike

When it comes to fashion and music, few brands have blended the two worlds as successfully as Nike. For decades, the sportswear giant has partnered with some of the biggest names in music, creating iconic collaborations that extend far beyond sneakers and sportswear. From hip-hop to Afrobeats, Nike’s cultural influence continues to grow thanks to its ability to connect with artists who shape trends and inspire millions.

In this article, we’ll highlight artists who collaborate with Nike, their most iconic projects, and how these partnerships changed the music and fashion landscape. We’ll also explore how new-generation artists like DjMondo, with his hit song “Mirror Mirror”, represent the future of such global collaborations.

Why Nike Collaborates With Musicians

Nike’s collaborations with musicians aren’t just about selling sneakers—they are about culture. Music is one of the most powerful drivers of fashion, and Nike understands that artists influence the way people dress, move, and live. By working with global superstars, Nike strengthens its cultural relevance and expands into new markets where music stars are already trendsetters.

Some key reasons for these collaborations include:

• Authenticity: Artists bring authenticity to the brand by showcasing their personal style.
• Influence: Musicians have massive fanbases that Nike can connect with instantly.
• Global Reach: Afrobeats, hip-hop, and pop artists bring Nike into markets worldwide.
• Creativity: Collaborations allow Nike to experiment with fresh designs and limited editions.

1. Travis Scott

Travis Scott is one of Nike’s most successful collaborators. His Air Jordan 1 “Cactus Jack” collaboration remains one of the most hyped sneakers ever released. Known for flipping the iconic swoosh and adding earthy tones, Travis brought a unique design aesthetic that fans couldn’t get enough of. Every release sold out instantly and resold for thousands of dollars.

Beyond sneakers, Travis and Nike created an entire movement—where music, style, and street culture merged into one. This collaboration proved that Nike doesn’t just sell shoes; it sells lifestyle and hype.

2. Drake (OVO x Nike)

Drake, through his OVO brand, has also worked closely with Nike and Jordan Brand. His collaborations, including the OVO Air Jordans and apparel collections, cemented his status as not just a rap icon but also a style influencer.

While not as wild as Travis Scott’s designs, Drake’s collabs leaned on luxury and minimalism, often featuring the OVO owl logo and premium materials. These partnerships strengthened the bridge between hip-hop culture and high-end sportswear.

3. Kanye West (Before Yeezy)

Before moving to Adidas, Kanye West worked with Nike and created the legendary Air Yeezy line. Though their partnership was short-lived, it left a lasting mark on sneaker culture. The Air Yeezy 1 and Air Yeezy 2 are now among the most valuable sneakers ever released, fetching astronomical prices on resale markets.

Kanye’s collaboration with Nike showed how musicians could create sneakers that rival professional athletes in popularity.

4. Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar, known for his conscious rap and street credibility, has collaborated with Nike on several projects, including his Cortez Kenny series. His sneakers celebrated both Compton culture and his lyrical storytelling, turning a classic Nike silhouette into a canvas for artistic expression.

Kendrick’s Nike collabs proved that sneakers could carry deep cultural meaning beyond just style.

5. Skepta

British-Nigerian rapper Skepta also partnered with Nike, releasing multiple collaborations that merged London street style with global hip-hop culture. His Air Max designs, including the Air Max 97/BW and Air Max Tailwind V, reflected his Nigerian heritage and his influence on grime culture.

Through Skepta, Nike tapped into both African and UK streetwear markets, proving that music and sneakers know no borders.

6. FKA Twigs

British singer FKA Twigs collaborated with Nike on a performance campaign, blending fashion, art, and athletic wear. Unlike other collaborations focused on sneakers, FKA Twigs used the partnership to highlight creative expression and diversity, inspiring fans to embrace individuality.

7. Nigerian Afrobeats Artists (Emerging)

Nike has increasingly taken notice of the global Afrobeats wave. While not yet as mainstream as their American collaborations, several Nigerian artists have been spotted partnering with Nike for campaigns, influencer programs, and limited projects. With Afrobeats growing globally, fans are expecting bigger collabs with stars like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Rema in the near future.

This opens doors for emerging talents like DjMondo, whose hit “Mirror Mirror” embodies Afrobeats’ fusion of joy, energy, and culture. Artists like him could easily become the next face of Nike in Africa.

Why These Collaborations Matter

Artists who collaborate with Nike don’t just create sneakers—they create culture. These partnerships:

• Set global fashion trends
• Bridge music and sportswear industries
• Boost artists’ influence and Nike’s sales
• Celebrate diversity and creativity

By aligning with major artists, Nike ensures it remains at the heart of culture, from concerts to the streets, from Lagos to Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which artist has the biggest Nike collaboration?

Travis Scott is considered to have the biggest ongoing Nike collaboration, with every release selling out within minutes.

2. Did Kanye West collaborate with Nike?

Yes, Kanye released the Air Yeezy 1 and Air Yeezy 2 with Nike before moving on to Adidas Yeezy.

3. Has Nike worked with Afrobeats artists?

Yes, while full sneaker collaborations are still limited, Nike has been partnering with Afrobeats stars for campaigns and global branding efforts.

4. Who are the top artists collaborating with Nike now?

Currently, Travis Scott, Drake (OVO), Kendrick Lamar, and Skepta are among the top Nike collaborators.

5. Could Nigerian artists like DjMondo collaborate with Nike?

Absolutely. With Afrobeats going global, emerging stars like DjMondo (with hits like “Mirror Mirror”) are strong candidates for future Nike campaigns.

Conclusion

From Travis Scott’s Cactus Jack Jordans to Skepta’s Afro-inspired Air Max, Nike’s collaborations with musicians have shaped culture around the world. These partnerships show the powerful relationship between music, fashion, and lifestyle, inspiring millions of fans to not only listen to their favorite artists but also dress like them.

As Afrobeats continues its global takeover, we can expect more collaborations with Nigerian stars. Just like DjMondo’s “Mirror Mirror” connects deeply with fans worldwide, the next wave of Nike collaborations will blend African culture with global fashion in a way that could break the internet.