The global recognition of Afrobeats reached another milestone as American music magazine Billboard unveiled its list of the Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time, with 2Face Idibia’s timeless hit African Queen securing the number one spot.
Released in 2004, African Queen not only catapulted 2Face into international stardom but also cemented itself as one of the most influential records in the evolution of modern African music. Despite years of debate surrounding its legacy, Billboard’s ranking has now positioned the track as the definitive Afrobeats anthem.
Right behind 2Face is Wizkid’s career-defining single Ojuelegba, which earned the number 2 spot. Wizkid also became the only artist with two entries in the coveted top 10, as his global smash Essence featuring Tems landed at number 5.
Favour’s Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix) claimed third place, while Rema’s worldwide chart-dominating Calm Down secured the fourth position. Other major hits rounding up 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.
The dominance of Nigerian acts was evident throughout the ranking, but Ghanaian stars also made a strong showing. Fuse ODG’s Azonto featuring Itz Tiffany and Sarkodie’s Adonai featuring Castro held the 18th and 19th positions, respectively, underscoring Ghana’s contribution to the Afrobeats movement.
Classic Nigerian hits were not left out. Styl-Plus’ evergreen ballad Olufunmi landed at number 11, 9ice’s Gongo Aso followed at 12, P-Square’s Do Me took 13, and Davido’s Dami Duro secured 14. Yemi Alade made history as the highest-ranked female lead artist with her mega-hit Johnny at number 15, while Wande Coal’s Bumper to Bumper (17) and Phyno’s Fada Fada featuring Olamide (20) rounded out the top 20.
Billboard’s list has already sparked heated debates among music lovers, with fans defending their favorites and challenging omissions. Still, the recognition marks a significant moment for Afrobeats, further solidifying its place as one of the most powerful cultural exports from Africa to the world.
