Last updated 20/12/2024 at 10:00am

The term 'Afrobeats' emerged in the early 2000s, distinguishing itself as a modern iteration separate from the socially conscious and rhythmically intricate Afrobeat pioneered by Fela Kuti. The history of Afrobeats is a fascinating tale of evolution, transforming from its original roots to the globally celebrated and chart-topping sound we know today.

Afrobeats has seen exponential growth in popularity, especially on streaming platforms like Spotify. In 2022 alone, the genre logged an incredible 13 billion streams worldwide. Icons such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems have been instrumental in this rise, making 2022 a landmark year for the genre.

Dive in as we rank the top 10 Afrobeats songs, complete with music videos, career-defining statistics, and the cultural impact behind these global hits.

Afrobeats Best Songs in Order

No. 10 Oxlade - "Ku Lo Sa"

Coming in at number 10 on our list of top Afrobeats songs is “Ku Lo Sa” by Nigerian sensation, Oxlade. Released on June 10th under Troniq Music and Epic Records. Following the release, ColoursxStudios featured a live performance of the song as part of their highly acclaimed series, further amplifying its success.

By the end of 2022, “Ku Lo Sa” reached an impressive #11 on the US Afrobeats Songs chart (Billboard), solidifying its place as one of the year’s standout tracks.

No. 9 Fireboy DML and Ed Sheeran - "Peru"

Adedamola Adefolahan, popularly known as Fireboy DML, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter celebrated for his unique sound and artistry. His hit track “Peru”, featuring Ed Sheeran, was released on July 20th, 2021 under YBNL Nation.

The song achieved remarkable success, climbing to the #1 spot on the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart. In addition, “Peru” was recognized as one of Apple Music's Top Songs of 2021 in Nigeria, cementing its status as a standout hit in Afrobeats history.

Buy Ed Sheeran VIP tickets now

No. 8 Burna Boy - “Last Last"

The upbeat and infectious “Last Last” by global superstar Burna Boy has become one of his most beloved tracks. Released on May 13th, 2022, through Atlantic Records, the song served as the lead single for his sixth studio album, “Love, Damini”.

Adding to its impact, the music video—directed by Burna Boy himself—was unveiled alongside the track and has since garnered over 300 million views on YouTube, a testament to its widespread appeal.

Buy Burna Boy VIP tickets now

No. 7 Libianca “People”

A more mellow addition to our list of the best Afrobeats songs is “People” by Cameroonian-American artist Libianca. With its soothing vocals and heartfelt melodies, the track has achieved significant commercial success, earning Libianca praise from Rolling Stone, who described her as “the Afro-soul siren who can do everything.”

“People” delves into deeply personal themes, exploring issues such as alcoholism and toxic relationships, making it not only a captivating listen but also a powerful and relatable story for many.

No. 6 Wiz Kid “Essence” featuring Tems

“Essence” by Wizkid, featuring the soulful vocals of Tems, was released on October 30th, 2020, as the fourth single from Wizkid’s critically acclaimed fourth studio album, “Made in Lagos.”

The track achieved global recognition and became a cultural phenomenon, culminating in a nomination at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards for Best Global Music Performance, further cementing its status as an important afrobeats track.

No.5 Burna Boy - "On the Low"

Burna Boy's hit track “On The Low” has reached an incredible milestone, with over 129 million streams on Spotify and earning a spot among the platform's all-time Afrobeats classics. The song highlights Burna Boy's distinctive afro-fusion sound, captivating listeners globally with its irresistible rhythm and soulful vocals.

Buy Burna Boy VIP tickets now

No.4 Dave “Location” featuring Burna Boy

Coming in at number 4 on our top afrobeat songs list is Dave's "Location" featuring Burna Boy. The track was released on 8th March 2019, it was written by Fraser T. Smith, Jae5 and Dave.

The music video was filmed in Ibiza and filmed during Stormzy's #MERKY festival. Cameo appearances in the video include Aitch, Raheem Sterling, Jaden Sancho, Lethal Bizzle and Jorja Smith.

No.3 Kizz Daniel And Davido “Twe twe”

This epic collaboration was released on December 12th, 2023, to commemorate Kizz Daniel’s remarkable 10 years in the music industry. Released through Flyboy INC and EMPIRE, the track follows the massive success of Kizz Daniel’s fourth studio album, “Maverick.”

Buy Davido VIP tickets now

No.2 CKay - "Love Nwantiti (Ah Ah Ah)"

“Love Nwantiti” is a hit song by Nigerian singer and songwriter CKay. Following its original release, a remix featuring Ghanaian artist Kuami Eugene and Nigerian singer Joeboy was released, further boosting the track’s popularity and global appeal.

No. 1 Rema - "Calm Down"

Nigerian artist Rema has solidified her place as one of the leading voices in the Afrobeats scene with her sensational single “Calm Down.” Released on February 11th, 2022, through Jonzing World and Mavin Records, the track served as the second single from her album.

In the UK, “Calm Down” achieved remarkable success, becoming a mainstay on the UK Singles Chart, where it spent an impressive 27 non-consecutive weeks in the top ten, showcasing its popularity.

Interested in experiencing the best of Afrobeats live? Check out our Best Afrobeats Events blog and special artists on sale now including Burna Boy and Davido.