Top Naija Afrobeats songs of 2023

21 Mar 2023 - 20:11

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

Nigeria has maintained its leading position in the African music industry, and its influence has extended to the global music scene through the exceptional abilities of its artists and the distinctive sound they create. In 2023, the integration of various music genres has been centred on the amapiano trend from South Africa, which has led to the production of remarkable musical compositions that exhibit a diverse range of voices and themes, serving as evidence of the versatility of Nigerian musicians.

Ayra Starr.

Music In Africa brings you our selection of the the top Nigerian songs of the year. This compilation highlights the prominence and significance of Nigerian music within the Afrobeats genre, and will be regularly updated throughout the year to feature the latest and most noteworthy releases.

‘Yoga’ by Asake

Asake’s ‘Yoga’ is a meditative psalm about finding self-assurance and empowerment, complete with assertive lyrics and haunting production.

‘Body & Soul’ by Joeboy

Joeboy’s ‘Body & Soul’ highlights its author’s soothing style and dedication to conveying a sense of yearning and emotional depth. Boasting romantic lyrics and ambient production, the track arrives as Joeboy’s maiden song for the year.

‘Holiday’ by Rema

Rema’s ‘Holiday’, his first song of the year following the global hit ‘Calm Down’, is a playful and fun track that’s perfect for carefree summer days, and looks to further position him as indispensable in Afrobeats today.

‘Sability’ by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr’s ‘Sability’, which samples Congolese vet Awilo Longomba’s classic ‘Coupé Bibamba’, is a happy, confident submission and a fail-safe invitation to the dance floor, which also casts the Mavin act as one on the cusp of true international acclaim.

‘Who Is Your Guy (Remix)’ by Spyro ft. Tiwa Savage

Spyro teams up with Afropop diva Tiwa Savage for the remix of his hit track ‘Who Is Your Guy?’, a fun record that emphasises and celebrates true friendship.

‘The One’ by Crayon and Yaba Buluku Boyz

The message in Crayon’s ‘The One’, a lovely fusion of Afrobeats and amapiano sounds, is simple: he is he One, and this is his time. In pop, this also translates to the wads of cash he can litter club floors with, and the sheer amount of champagne that must flow when he is around.

‘Jolie’ by Khaid

With a catchy, infectious energy, Khaid’s ‘Jolie’ is Afrobeats-inspired and discusses the thrill of new romance, which is a staple theme in African pop.

‘RTID (Rich Till I Die)’ by Kizz Daniel

On this record, Kizz Daniel celebrates ambition and success. With its catchy chorus and upbeat production, this song also works as an empowering anthem for anyone desiring to rise to the top and the determination to achieve financial freedom.

‘GWAGWALADA’ by Bnxn ft. Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez

Named after a location in Nigeria’s capital Abuja, ‘GWAGWALADA’ is a playful song highlighting youthful swagger and taking things easy. As the song stars three of Afrobeats’ most sought-after hook merchants, the record is an effortless earworm.

‘Party No Dey Stop’ by Adekunle Gold ft. Zinoleesky

On this new single, which also marks his arrival to Def Jam Africa, Adekunle Gold recruits fellow singer Zinoleesky in the ultimate party anthem, spotlighting his knack for some of the greatest Afrobeats melodies today.

‘Stamina’ by Tiwa Savage ft. Ayra Starr & Young Jonn

Tiwa Savage teams up with rising star Ayra Starr and producer-turned-singer Young Jonn to deliver the beautiful and suggestive ‘Stamina’, which, at the core of it, nestles between love and something vainer.

‘Alaska’ by Seyi Vibez

Seyi Vibez boast an ancestral courage that casts him in the role of both hero and villain. One thing is sure: his instant and direct charisma will not be ignored. ‘Alaska’ overflows with visual chants and melodies that make you think of epic movies.