Weekly, Afrobeats continues to dominate the global charts. Here’s a chance to catch up on the 5 songs currently making waves in the world.
Tems: Love Me Jeje
Tems’ new single, Love Me Jeje from the album, Born in the Wild cemented her place in Afrobeats; and the proof is how it continues to dominate music charts three months after its release in May.
Considering the relationship between being ‘Born in the Wild’ and the desire to be loved ‘jeje’, a Nigerian slang for tender, the song conveys a sense of gentle, easy-going love, with the 28-year-old’s ability to explore a different style and voice on the song.
Asake ft. Central Cee: Wave
With its catchy lyrics and dynamic beats, we see why Wave by Asake ft. Central Cee is topping the charts.
Trust Asake to bring his signature Afrobeats style, and paired with Central Cee’s compelling rap verses, this makes the track a must-listen. Wave has been gaining traction across various streaming platforms, and its popularity is skyrocketing.
Burna Boy: Higher
Burna Boy has released Higher – an inspirational new song aimed at elevating his hometown of Port Harcourt, River State, Nigeria.
This song is particularly special as it aligns with the Grammy winning artiste’s ongoing efforts through ‘Project PROTECT’, a pivotal initiative he founded to provide financial, medical and legal assistance to communities affected by systemic violence and poverty. Considering the current tension in the country, we believe it’s an inspirational song for everyone at this point.
Rema: Yayo
Yayo is from Rema’s album, Heis, described by Rolling Stone as a buzzy, visceral, sweat-it-out music that no one else in the mainstream is making.
Fondly called “The prince of Afrobeats”, Rema delivered on Yayo with a strong production and chorus.
Ayra Starr ft. Giveon: Last Heartbreak Song
From the album, The Year I Turned 21, Ayra Starr delivers a soulful song that speaks to everyone who has ever been burned by love. “It feels one-sided now,” she laments with her sweet yet searing vocals. While heartbreak respects no one, trust our girl to make lemons out of this lemonade.
Afrobeats: A Global Phenomenon
Afrobeats is no longer just a genre, it’s a cultural movement that has captivated the world. From its infectious rhythms to its powerful lyrics, Afrobeats has become a global force in music. Its popularity is undeniable, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido consistently topping charts worldwide.
The genre’s global success can be attributed to several factors. First, Afrobeats is incredibly diverse, encompassing a wide range of styles, from the highlife-inspired sounds of Fela Kuti to the modern, electronic-infused beats of artists like Rema. This diversity allows the genre to appeal to a broad audience. Second, Afrobeats is deeply rooted in African culture, drawing inspiration from traditional rhythms, instruments, and storytelling. This connection to its roots makes the genre unique and authentic.
Third, Afrobeats is also a genre of social commentary, often tackling issues of poverty, inequality, and injustice. This is evident in songs like Burna Boy’s Higher, which addresses the challenges faced by communities in Nigeria. The genre’s ability to engage with social issues has resonated with audiences around the world.
The future of Afrobeats is bright. As the genre continues to evolve and grow, it is poised to become even more influential on the global music scene. The artists featured in this article represent the future of Afrobeats, showcasing the genre’s versatility, depth, and cultural significance.
The Future of Afrobeats: A Sound of Hope and Resilience
Afrobeats is not just a musical genre; it’s a movement that embodies the spirit of resilience and hope. As the world continues to grapple with political and economic instability, Afrobeats offers a beacon of light, reminding us of the power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift. The artists at the forefront of this movement are not just musicians; they are storytellers, activists, and agents of change.
Their music transcends borders, cultures, and languages, connecting people through a shared love of rhythm, melody, and groove. It is a sound that speaks to the soul, igniting our spirits and reminding us of our shared humanity. It is a sound that is here to stay.
