Afrobeats: From Lagos to the World, a Cultural Revolution Unfolds

Afrobeats is having its moment on the global stage. What began as a soundtrack to Lagos’ bustling streets has become a worldwide sensation, bridging continents and reshaping the sound of popular music. Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped data  reveals just how far the genre has come, capturing the ears and hearts of millions with its unique mix of rhythms, languages, and sheer creativity.

A Genre on the Move

The numbers don’t lie. In 2024, Afrobeats enjoyed a 34% surge in global streams on Spotify, with over 117 million playlists featuring its infectious beats. The lyrics—a vibrant blend of local dialects, Pidgin English, and English—give listeners an authentic glimpse into the lives and dreams of Africa’s youth.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, puts it simply: “Afrobeats represents the energy, creativity, and resilience of African youth. Its growth highlights the power of African music to inspire and connect audiences globally.”

That connection spans dance floors from Lagos to London and Buenos Aires. With the addition of “Best Afrobeats Song” at the MTV Video Music Awards and the inaugural “Best African Music Performance” category at the Grammys, the genre has cemented its place in music history.

Artists at the Helm

The rise of Afrobeats is driven by a new wave of artists whose work transcends borders. Ayra Starr, for instance, is now the most exported female artist from Nigeria, dominating charts in countries such as Spain, Italy, and Sweden. Burna Boy, one of the genre’s most recognisable faces, leads streams in the UK, Canada, and Switzerland.

The accolades keep piling up. Rema’s “Calm Down” became the first African song to surpass one billion Spotify streams, while Wizkid’s “Essence” broke into the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10—a first for any African track. Collaborations with international icons like Beyoncé, Drake, Ed Sheeran, and Rihanna have only expanded the genre’s reach.

Spotify’s Wrapped data tells a compelling story: Asake, Burna Boy, Seyi Vibez, Rema, and Davido are the top five streamed African artists in Sub-Saharan Africa. These artists aren’t just creating music; they’re making history. From Burna Boy and Ayra Starr’s groundbreaking performances on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage to Wizkid’s sold-out arenas, Afrobeats has captured global attention.

Beyond the Music

Afrobeats is more than a genre; it’s a cultural movement. It’s influencing fashion, language, and lifestyle. Wizkid’s eclectic style, Asake’s bold fashion statements, and Rema’s trendsetting looks are just a few examples of how Afrobeats stars inspire global audiences.

“Afrobeats isn’t just about music; it’s about identity and pride,” says Okumu. This pride resonates strongly with Gen Z, who have streamed Afrobeats for over 8 billion hours globally. For them, the genre’s rhythms and messages strike a chord.

Even in unexpected places, Afrobeats is thriving. Spotify data shows artists like Burna Boy, Rema, Asake and Ayra Starr ranking among the top 100 most discovered acts in places such as Mauritania, Djibouti, Comoros, Tuvalu, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, and Solomon Islands. It’s a testament to the genre’s universal appeal.

What Comes Next?

As Afrobeats continues to gain recognition, its influence grows. The 2025 Grammy nominations for “Best African Music Performance” are dominated by Afrobeats stars, while markets such as the US, UK, France, and Germany are  streaming Afrobeats the most outside of Nigeria, underscoring their pivotal role in the genre’s global success. Yet the genre’s heart and soul remain deeply rooted in its Nigerian origins, a constant reminder of its rich storytelling heritage.

Afrobeats is no fleeting trend. It’s a revolution that connects people, celebrates culture, and redefines the global music landscape. The world isn’t just listening anymore; it’s moving to the rhythm of Afrobeats.

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