NEW YORK (BN24) — 2Face Idibia’s “African Queen” has topped Billboard’s list of the Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All-Time. The 2004 hit, considered a key track in the global rise of Afrobeats, secured the No. 1 position, cementing its place as a landmark song in African music history.
Billboard’s ranking highlights the dominance of Nigerian artists in the genre. Wizkid stands out with two tracks in the top 10: “Ojuelegba” at No. 2 and “Essence” at No. 5, featuring Tems. Both songs have garnered massive international success, further solidifying Wizkid’s position as one of the most influential figures in Afrobeats.
Other Nigerian artists also made strong showings in the list’s top 10. Rema’s “Calm Down” ranked at No. 4, while Favour’s “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)” secured the No. 3 spot. CKay’s “Love Nwantiti” landed at No. 6, continuing its global success. D’banj’s “Oliver Twist”, Davido’s “Fall”, Burna Boy’s “Ye”, and P-Square’s “Chop My Money (Remix)” featuring Akon, also made the cut in the top 10.
The list also included two Ghanaian artists, Fuse ODG and Sarkodie, representing the broader West African influence on the Afrobeats genre. Fuse ODG’s “Azonto” (featuring Itz Tiffany) placed at No. 18, and Sarkodie’s “Adonai” (featuring Castro) came in at No. 19.
Beyond the top 10, Styl-Plus’s “Olufunmi” claimed the No. 11 spot, while 9ice’s “Gongo Aso” ranked No. 12. P-Square’s “Do Me” and Davido’s “Dami Duro” rounded out the list at No. 13 and No. 14, respectively.
Yemi Alade is the highest-ranked female artist, with her track “Johnny” securing the No. 15 position. Wande Coal’s “Bumper to Bumper” and Phyno’s “Fada Fada” (featuring Olamide) rounded out the top 20, further demonstrating the diversity and reach of Afrobeats music.
The rankings showcase not only the growing international appeal of Afrobeats but also the enduring influence of Nigerian artists on the global music scene.
