American music magazine Billboard has unveiled its list of the Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All-Time, placing 2Baba’s timeless hit ‘African Queen’ at number one.
The 2004 classic, which shot 2Baba into continental stardom, was described by Billboard as a record that “transcended borders and generations, cementing Afrobeats on the global map.”
Billboard staff, who curated the ranking, noted that the selection was based on cultural impact, chart success, and influence on the genre’s evolution.
Wizkid emerged as the only artist with two entries in the top 10. His breakout anthem ‘Ojuelegba’ secured the second spot, while ‘Essence’ featuring Tems ranked fifth.
At number three is Flavour’s ‘Nwa Baby’ (Ashawo Remix), followed by Rema’s global smash hit ‘Calm Down’ in fourth place. The rest of the top 10 include CKay’s ‘Love Nwantiti’, D’banj’s ‘Oliver Twist’, Davido’s ‘Fall’, Burna Boy’s ‘Ye’, and P-Square’s ‘Chop My Money’ remix featuring Akon.
While Nigerian artists dominated the top 20, Ghana was also represented. Fuse ODG’s Azonto (feat. Itz Tiffany) came in at number 18, while Sarkodie’s Adonai (feat. Castro) ranked 19th.
Other notable mentions include Styl-Plus’ evergreen love ballad ‘Olufunmi’ (11), 9ice’s ‘Gongo Aso’ (12), P-Square’s ‘Do Me’ (13), and Davido’s ‘Dami Duro (14). Yemi Alade’s ‘Johnny’ made history as the highest-ranked female-led Afrobeats song at number 15.
Also featured in the top 20 are Wande Coal’s ‘Bumper to Bumper’ (17) and Phyno’s ‘Fada Fada’ featuring Olamide (20).
The list underscores Afrobeats’ rise from West Africa to a global phenomenon, spotlighting the songs that shaped its evolution and defined its cultural legacy.
