10 Biggest Afrobeats Albums Of All Time

Afrobeats has grown into a global phenomenon, with its infectious rhythms, compelling melodies, and rich cultural narratives. What started as a fusion of West African music and modern genres has now evolved into a worldwide sound, with artists from the continent topping international charts and headlining major events. Over the years, several albums have not only dominated the Afrobeats scene but have also had a lasting impact on global music culture. Below are the 10 biggest Afrobeats albums of all time, in no particular order.

1. Fela Kuti – Zombie (1977)

Fela Kuti is widely considered the father of Afrobeats, and his 1977 album Zombie is one of his most iconic works. The album, which criticized the Nigerian military regime, is not just a musical masterpiece but also a political statement. Its boldness resonated with listeners across Africa and the world. Fela's unique blend of jazz, funk, highlife, and traditional African music is showcased in this album, cementing his legacy as a revolutionary artist.

2. Burna Boy – African Giant (2019)

Burna Boy’s African Giant was a game-changer for Afrobeats in the 21st century. The album features hit songs like "Anybody," "On the Low," and "Ye," which brought Afrobeats to a global audience. It received critical acclaim and earned Burna Boy his first Grammy nomination, further solidifying his place as one of the leaders of the modern Afrobeats movement. The album's themes range from love and celebration to politics and African identity.

3. Wizkid – Made in Lagos (2020)

Made in Lagos by Wizkid became an international sensation upon its release, with standout tracks such as "Essence," featuring Tems, becoming a global anthem. The album effortlessly blends Afrobeats with elements of R&B, pop, and reggae, appealing to fans across different music genres. The success of Made in Lagos has solidified Wizkid as one of the biggest names in Afrobeats, with "Essence" receiving a Grammy nomination and becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.

4. Davido – A Good Time (2019)

Davido’s A Good Time is one of the most commercially successful Afrobeats albums of all time. The album, which features hits like "Fall," "If," and "Blow My Mind" featuring Chris Brown, helped bring Afrobeats to mainstream audiences in the United States and beyond. Davido’s knack for creating catchy, danceable tunes makes this album a staple in the genre, proving his versatility and global appeal.

5. Tiwa Savage – Celia (2020)

Often referred to as the Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage’s Celia is a testament to her influence in the genre. The album fuses Afrobeats with pop and R&B, and features collaborations with global artists such as Sam Smith and Stefflon Don. Songs like "Dangerous Love" and "Koroba" showcase Tiwa’s lyrical prowess and vocal agility, making Celia a standout album in Afrobeats history.

6. 2Baba – Grass 2 Grace (2006)

2Baba (formerly known as 2Face Idibia) is a pioneer in Afrobeats, and his 2006 album Grass 2 Grace is a classic in the genre. The album features timeless hits such as "African Queen," which became a global anthem and introduced Afrobeats to international audiences. Grass 2 Grace solidified 2Baba’s legacy and continues to be an essential album for Afrobeats lovers.

7. Runtown – Ghetto University (2015)

Runtown’s Ghetto University is another essential album in Afrobeats history, with its blend of Afro-fusion and global pop sounds. The album’s breakout track "Mad Over You" became a continental hit and remains one of the most recognizable Afrobeats songs worldwide. Ghetto University highlighted Runtown’s talent for blending African sounds with global rhythms, making it one of the biggest Afrobeats albums.

8. Olamide – Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013)

Olamide’s Baddest Guy Ever Liveth is a defining album in the Nigerian music scene. Known for his raw energy and ability to blend Yoruba with English, Olamide showcases his versatility throughout the album. Songs like "Durosoke" and "Turn Up" were massive hits, propelling Olamide to the forefront of the Afrobeats genre. The album’s impact on Nigerian street music cannot be overstated.

9. Mr Eazi – Life is Eazi Vol. 1 – Accra to Lagos (2017)

Mr Eazi’s Life is Eazi Vol. 1 is a unique project that blends Afrobeats with Ghanaian highlife. The album’s smooth fusion of sounds helped establish Mr Eazi as one of the most innovative artists in the genre. Tracks like "Leg Over" and "Skin Tight" became massive hits, earning him international acclaim. Accra to Lagos showcases Mr Eazi’s distinctive approach to Afrobeats, making it a must-listen for any fan of the genre.

10. Asa – Asa (2007)

While Asa’s music leans more toward soul and jazz, her self-titled debut album has a significant Afrobeats influence. Songs like "Jailer" and "Fire on the Mountain" became cultural anthems and helped introduce Nigerian music to a broader international audience. Asa’s unique blend of traditional African sounds with Western genres makes her debut album a groundbreaking project in the evolution of Afrobeats.

Conclusion

Afrobeats has evolved significantly, and these 10 albums represent different stages of the genre's growth, from its political roots in Fela Kuti’s work to its current status as a global sound. Each of these albums not only pushed the boundaries of music in Africa but also introduced the world to the rich diversity of Afrobeats. With the continued rise of African artists on the global stage, the legacy of these albums will only grow, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.