Top Afrobeats songs of 2024
Afrobeats, West Africa’s most notable music innovation, has been a pop marvel. Its ongoing global momentum has been facilitated by significant investment, a steady supply of great music and the constant emergence of new stars. This year marks another chapter of the sound as it deepens its contribution to the international music scene, incorporating diverse rhythms and fostering collaboration both within and outside the continent.
Below is our 2024 playlist featuring the top Afrobeats songs offering a snapshot of the musical backdrop shaping life on the continent and beyond. This selection will be updated all year round, so be sure to bookmark it to stay in the loop.
Twe Twe by Kizz Daniel and Davido
This track features two of Nigeria’s most prolific contemporary popstars, their offerings perpetually heard in clubs and other social events. ‘Twe Twe’ is a fast-paced percussive invitation to dance and further solidifies the two artists’ influence as industry mainstays.
Wotowoto Seasoning by Odumodublvck ft. Black Sherif
Despite hailing from Lagos, Odumodublvck often credits Abuja for his mainstream success. A vibrant force, he has swiftly become the fresh face of Nigerian hip hop. Although the genre doesn’t always have universal appeal, Odumodublvck has successfully crafted a style that resonates widely, earning him a spot on the Afrobeats charts.
Happiness by Sarz ft. Asake and Gunna
Renowned for crafting beats for notable artists such as Wizkid, Naeto C, Banky W, Wande Coal and Lojay, Benin City-born super-producer Sarz is widely referenced for his unique touch when making African pop. On his uplifting new offering ‘Happiness’, Sarz summons a blend of soulful rhythm and melodies that guarantee a dance-ready experience. Collaborating with fellow Nigerian artist Asake and American rapper Gunna, the song serves as an ode to being positive.
Commas by Ayra Starr
In just a few years, Mavin signee Ayra Starr has established herself as a bona fide Afrobeats diva with multiple hits, thus fulfilling industry watchers’ predictions of a global breakthrough. Her musical efforts have culminated in a Grammy nomination, and her latest track ‘Commas’ reflects on her massive achievements so far.
Diamonds by Wizkid
‘Diamonds’ is a focus track from Wizkid’s recent surprise EP. The song, which encapsulates the laid-back essence synonymous with the artist, raises a toast to success; fittingly so, as Wizkid continues to hold a prominent position among the top three Afrobeats stars (alongside Davido and Burna Boy), a status he has maintained for more than a decade.
Cast by Shallipopi ft. Odumodublvck
Like the song’s other guest, Shallipopi, another new rap face in Nigeria, is basking in significant commercial success. ‘Cast’ is the product of two street disciples who have hacked African dance music like few have. ‘Cast’ is vain, raw and still irresistible in its appeal.
Men of the South by Timi Dakolo
Renowned for conspiring contemporary classics, Timi Dakolo is what you would call a Nigerian iteration of adult contemporary music, seamlessly blending soul, jazz, highlife and more. His track ‘Men of the South’ from his latest album Chorus Leader, is a vibrant expression of love and opulence driven by rich indigenous culture and rhythm.
Egwu by Chike ft. Mohbad
One of the distinctive features of Afrobeats is its openness to embracing various genres, exemplified by the incorporation of South Africa’s amapiano in recent years. Resident loverboy Chike’s ‘Egwu’ takes this route, summoning late rapper Mohbad to celebrate the boundless potency and transformative power of music.
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