10 Biggest Afrobeats Songs Of All Time

Afrobeats has become one of the most popular and influential genres globally, mixing African rhythms, Western pop, hip hop, and electronic music to create infectious beats and songs that have transcended borders. The genre’s massive appeal is a testament to its infectious rhythm and diverse style. As we look back at its evolution, here are ten of the biggest Afrobeats songs of all time that shaped the genre and brought it to the world stage.

1. “Fall” – Davido (2017)

Davido's "Fall" is one of the most commercially successful Afrobeats tracks in history. Released in 2017, the song gained international recognition, becoming a massive hit in both Africa and abroad. With over 300 million views on YouTube, "Fall" became one of the longest-charting Nigerian songs on the Billboard charts. Its blend of catchy lyrics and Afro-pop beats captured global attention, cementing Davido’s status as one of Afrobeats’ biggest stars.

2. “Ye” – Burna Boy (2018)

Burna Boy’s “Ye” quickly became an anthem, not just in Nigeria but globally. Released in 2018, the song was a hit on numerous charts and earned Burna Boy accolades for his creativity and vocal performance. Its accidental association with Kanye West’s album Ye in the same year drove massive traffic to the song, propelling it further into the limelight. "Ye" perfectly captures Burna Boy's Afro-fusion sound, blending elements of Afrobeats, dancehall, and reggae.

3. “Ojuelegba” – Wizkid (2014)

Wizkid’s "Ojuelegba" is often regarded as the song that truly opened the doors of the international market to Afrobeats. Released in 2014, the track highlights Wizkid’s journey growing up in Lagos, showcasing a soulful and introspective side of Afrobeats. The song was so impactful that Canadian rapper Drake and UK artist Skepta jumped on its remix, further propelling its global reach.

4. “Dumebi” – Rema (2019)

Rema’s breakout hit “Dumebi” from 2019 put the teenage star on the map and ushered in a new wave of Afrobeats for the next generation. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook made it a favorite not only in Africa but internationally, with the song receiving massive airplay on radio stations across Europe and the United States. “Dumebi” is an example of how the genre continues to evolve while maintaining its distinct African roots.

5. “Soco” – Starboy (2018)

Starboy, a collective spearheaded by Wizkid, dropped “Soco” in 2018, featuring Wizkid, Terri, Spotless, and Ceeza Milli. The song’s infectious hook and upbeat production helped it become an instant hit. "Soco" is a perfect representation of modern Afrobeats, blending catchy melodies with rich, rhythmic production. It not only dominated African airwaves but also became a global sensation.

6. “Oliver Twist” – D'banj (2012)

Released in 2012, “Oliver Twist” by D'banj was one of the early Afrobeats songs to achieve significant crossover success in the UK and other parts of the world. The song reached No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart and played a major role in introducing Afrobeats to Western audiences. With its catchy chorus and danceable beat, “Oliver Twist” remains a classic and a key player in the global recognition of Afrobeats.

7. “Essence” – Wizkid ft. Tems (2020)

Wizkid’s “Essence,” featuring rising star Tems, is a track from his album Made in Lagos (2020). The song quickly became one of the biggest Afrobeats songs of the 2020s. In 2021, Justin Bieber jumped on the remix, further boosting its global appeal. "Essence" became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, and its smooth blend of Afrobeats and R&B makes it a timeless tune.

8. “African Queen” – 2Baba (2004)

A song that predates the global explosion of Afrobeats, 2Baba’s “African Queen” from 2004 is one of the earliest songs to gain international attention. Its mellow Afrobeats sound and heartfelt lyrics celebrate African women, and the song quickly became a classic. It even gained international recognition after being featured in the Hollywood film Phat Girlz. To this day, “African Queen” remains one of the most beloved Afrobeats songs.

9. “Pana” – Tekno (2016)

Tekno's "Pana" was a massive hit in 2016, blending infectious beats with captivating melodies. The song dominated charts in Nigeria and beyond, quickly becoming a fan favorite for its playful lyrics and romantic undertone. Tekno's unique production style and the song's catchy hook helped to push Afrobeats further into international markets, with "Pana" receiving massive airplay globally.

10. “If” – Davido (2017)

Another masterpiece from Davido, “If” was released in 2017 and became an instant classic. The song’s catchy lyrics, produced by Tekno, made it a staple at parties and events. "If" was a huge commercial success and helped solidify Davido's global presence. Its romantic and playful lyrics, combined with a smooth Afrobeats rhythm, made it a hit that resonated with fans across the world.

Conclusion

Afrobeats continues to break boundaries, shaping the global music scene with its infectious rhythms and distinct African sound. These ten songs not only played crucial roles in the genre’s rise to prominence but also left an indelible mark on the world stage. From 2Baba’s "African Queen" to Wizkid’s "Essence," the growth of Afrobeats has been a journey of cultural celebration and artistic evolution. These tracks stand as milestones, reminding us of how far the genre has come and where it is headed.