.

Billboard’s 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs: Full List & Legacy

Billboard’s 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs: Full List & Legacy

Afrobeats, a genre that fuses traditional African rhythms with global pop, hip-hop, and dancehall influences, has become a dominant force in the global music scene. Billboard's inaugural ranking of the 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs of All Time not only celebrates the genre's rich tapestry but also highlights its journey from local clubs to international stages.

Top 1 - 10

  1. 2Baba – "African Queen" (2004)
    A timeless classic that introduced Afrobeats to a global audience, featured in the Hollywood film Phat Girlz.

  2. Wizkid – "Ojuelegba" (2014)
    A heartfelt narrative of Wizkid's rise from Lagos to global stardom, resonating with fans worldwide.

  3. Flavour – "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)" (2011)
    A fusion of highlife and Afrobeats, showcasing Flavour's unique sound.

  4. Wizkid ft. Tems – "Essence" (2020)
    A sultry blend of R&B and Afrobeats, marking a significant milestone in the genre's international acclaim.

  5. Rema – "Calm Down" (2022)
    A record-breaking hit that topped charts and became a global sensation.

  6. CKay – "Love Nwantiti" (2019)
    A viral anthem that introduced Afrobeats to a younger, global audience.

  7. D’banj – "Oliver Twist" (2011)
    A dancehall-infused track that brought Afrobeats to the UK and beyond.

  8. Davido – "Fall" (2017)
    A chart-topping hit that solidified Davido's place in the global music scene.

  9. Burna Boy – "Ye" (2018)
    A fusion of Afrobeat and dancehall, showcasing Burna Boy's unique style.

  10. P-Square ft. Akon – "Chop My Money (Remix)" (2012)
    A collaboration that blended Nigerian rhythms with international appeal.\

11–25

  1. Styl-Plus – "Olufunmi"
    A soulful ballad that captivated hearts across Africa.

  2. 9ice – "Gongo Aso"
    A blend of traditional and modern sounds, marking 9ice's breakthrough.

  3. R2Bees ft. Wande Coal – "Kiss Your Hand"
    A Ghanaian-Nigerian collaboration that showcased West African unity.

  4. Davido – "Dami Duro"
    An energetic track that introduced Davido to the world stage.

  5. Yemi Alade – "Johnny"
    A catchy tune that became a pan-African hit.

  6. D’banj – "Fall In Love"
    A romantic track that showcased D’banj's versatility.

  7. Wande Coal – "Bumper to Bumper"
    A dancehall-inspired track that became a club favorite.

  8. Fuse ODG ft. Itz Tiffany – "Azonto"
    A song that popularized the Azonto dance worldwide.

  9. Sarkodie ft. Castro – "Adonai"
    A gospel-influenced track that highlighted Ghana's musical prowess.

  10. Phyno ft. Olamide – "Fada Fada"
    A celebration of Igbo culture and street life.

  11. Tiwa Savage & Don Jazzy – "Eminado"
    A collaboration that blended Afrobeat with pop sensibilities.

  12. Burna Boy – "Last Last"
    A reflective track that resonated with fans globally.

  13. Olamide – "Bobo"
    A street anthem that showcased Olamide's unique style.

  14. Afro B – "Drogba (Joanna)"
    A dancehall-influenced track that became a global hit.

  15. Wizkid – "Pakurumo"
    A track that highlighted Wizkid's versatility.

26–50

  1. Mr Eazi & Efya – "Skin Tight"
    A sultry track that introduced Mr Eazi's unique sound.

  2. Wande Coal & DJ Tunez – "Iskaba"
    A dancehall-inspired track that became a club favorite.

  3. Fireboy DML – "Peru"
    A romantic track that showcased Fireboy's vocal prowess.

  4. Amaarae & Moliy – "Sad Girlz Luv Money"
    A fusion of Afrobeats and R&B, marking a new wave in the genre.

  5. Burna Boy ft. Zlatan – "Killin Dem"
    A high-energy track that became a party anthem.

  6. Ayra Starr – "Rush"
    A breakout hit that introduced Ayra Starr to the world.

  7. The Mavins – "Dorobucci"
    A collaborative track that showcased Nigeria's musical talent.

  8. Runtown – "Mad Over You"
    A romantic track that became a pan-African hit.

  9. P-Square – "Personally"
    A dance track that showcased P-Square's versatility.

  10. Tekno – "Pana"
    A catchy tune that became a club favorite.

  11. Maleek Berry – "Kontrol"
    A fusion of Afrobeats and R&B, marking a new wave in the genre.

  12. Oxlade – "Ku Lo Sa"
    A romantic track that showcased Oxlade's vocal prowess.

  13. Lojay & Sarz – "Monalisa"
    A sultry track that introduced Lojay's unique sound.

  14. Skales – "Shake Body"
    A dancehall-inspired track that became a club favorite.

  15. Davido ft. Musa Keys – "Unavailable"
    A collaboration that blended Afrobeats with global sounds.

  16. Asake – "Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)"
    A track that showcased Asake's unique style.

  17. Libianca – "People"
    A soulful ballad that captivated hearts across Africa.

  18. Kizz Daniel ft. Tekno – "Buga"
    A dance track that became a global hit.

  19. Ice Prince ft. Brymo – "Oleku"
    A fusion of hip-hop and Afrobeats, marking a new wave in the genre.

  20. Olu Maintain – "Yahooze"
    A track that highlighted Nigerian street culture.

  21. Victony & Tempoe – "Soweto"
    A high-energy track that became a party anthem.

  22. Jazzman Olofin ft. Adewale Ayuba – "Raise Da Roof"
    A fusion of Fuji and Afrobeats, showcasing Nigeria's musical diversity.

  23. Timaya – "Dem Mama"
    A dancehall-inspired track that became a club favorite.

  24. Nonso Amadi – "Tonight"
    A romantic track that showcased Nonso's vocal prowess.

  25. Weird MC – "Ijoya"
    A fusion of hip-hop and Afrobeats, marking a new wave in the

From the soulful classics to the global chart-toppers, these 50 tracks capture the heartbeat of Afrobeats and its evolution over the years. Each song tells a story, not just of music, but of culture, resilience, and creativity that transcends borders. As Afrobeats continues to shape global soundscapes, one thing is certain: the genre is here to stay, and its rhythm will keep inspiring generations worldwide.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, exploring this list offers a vibrant journey through Africa’s musical innovation, reminding us why Afrobeats is more than just a genre, it’s a movement.

How Billboard Curated the List ?

Billboard’s selection criteria included:

  • Stylistic representation across eras

  • Cultural impact and legacy

  • Commercial success and digital performance

  • Regional and global reach 

Billboard’s list is the ultimate recognition of Afrobeats’ growth from heartfelt ballads to cross-continental smash hits. The list honors pioneers, spotlights viral sensations, and provides a template for the genre’s next wave.

Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post