Alté lifted from the Latin word alter, ‘other’ is the spirit of a generation unafraid to stand
Alté isn’t just a trend or a fashion statement; it’s a lifestyle, a mindset, and a movement reshaping how a new generation expresses itself. Short for “alternative,” Alté is a Nigerian slang that represents freedom of expression through any medium; whether it’s music, fashion, art, or lifestyle. It’s more than a look; it’s an attitude, a rejection of the ordinary, and a celebration of individuality.
As Alté pioneer TeeZee, rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer, told Red Bull:
“Alté is Nigerian lingo for ‘alternative,’ which means freedom of expression essentially through any medium.”
In fashion the Alté aesthetic mashes grunge, Y2K, goth, indie and boho into something both nostalgic and futuristic, expressive, fearless, deeply personal. A visual rebellion against conformity; a celebration of creative
Alté began as a rebellion against Nigeria’s conservative culture. While Millennials like TeeZee, Odunsi (The Engine), and Cruel Santino pioneered the movement, today’s Gen Z artists are carrying the torch, evolving the sound, and spreading the ethos globally.
Lagos has become the cultural heartbeat of Nigeria, and in recent years, it has emerged as a crucial center for Gen Z creativity. From late-night raves to underground exhibitions, young Lagosians are redefining self-expression, breaking away from societal norms and creating spaces where individuality thrives. The city is more than just a creative hub; it’s a canvas for freedom, where Gen Z can experiment, collaborate, and express themselves without restraint.
Artists to Explore
If you’re ready to dive into Alté culture, here are some standout artists to explore:
According to an interview with Billboard, in his concept album Subaru Boys: FINAL HEAVEN,
“He presents a futuristic, underwater universe where wardens—known as Subaru Boys—carry out missions for a fictional government. The 21-track project is divided into narrative arcs, each punctuated by immersive sound design, including waves, explosions, sirens, and synthesized voices. This ambitious approach highlights his fearless experimentation and exemplifies Alté’s ethos of boundary-pushing creativity”.
His Collabs : Alté Cruise with Odunsi, Adekunle Gold’s ‘Attack’, Odumudu’s ‘Dog Eating Dog’ cement his reach.
Photo Credits: Spotify
What started as a subculture among Nigerian secondary school students; a quiet rebellion against a conservative society, has transformed into a global creative movement. Alté now represents freedom: the power to express identities beyond societal expectations. The sound, fashion, and mindset have transcended Lagos, resonating with youth across Africa, the UK, and beyond.
From playlists in London to fashion collectives in Nairobi and art installations in New York, Alté’s influence continues to spread. It has become more than music or aesthetics; it’s a philosophy that celebrates difference and individuality. By merging tradition with experimentation, and local identity with global sensibilities, this movement is redefining what it means to be African, creative and unapologetically free.
