In 2025, Afrobeats didn’t just travel; it dominated.
From Lagos to London, playlists to dance floors, Nigerian sounds defined the year with records that blended emotion, street energy, melody and global appeal.
These ten songs stood above the rest, driven by massive streams, cultural moments and undeniable chart power.
1. With You – Davido ft. Omah Lay
Undisputedly the biggest song of 2025, With You became Nigeria’s most-streamed track on Spotify and a global Afrobeats staple. Davido’s heartfelt delivery paired seamlessly with Omah Lay’s soulful vulnerability, creating a love anthem that felt intimate yet universal. Its emotional depth and replay value made it unavoidable all year.
2. Baby (Is It a Crime) – Rema
Rema once again proved his hit-making genius with this smooth, infectious record. Baby (Is It a Crime) thrived on virality, dominating short-form video platforms and playlists alike. Its hypnotic rhythm, catchy hook and bold confidence gave it massive replay power and cultural buzz throughout 2025.
3. Laho – Shallipopi
Raw, street-driven and unmistakably cultural, Laho cemented Shallipopi’s place as a voice of the new street wave. The song became an anthem across Nigeria and broke into the U.S. Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart. Its slang, rhythm and swagger turned it into more than a hit — it became a movement.
4. Joy Is Coming – Fido
Uplifting and refreshing, Joy Is Coming resonated deeply with listeners seeking hope and positivity. Fido’s optimistic message, paired with a warm Afrobeats groove, helped the song gain strong streaming traction. It stood out as one of the year’s feel-good records, offering reassurance wrapped in melody.
5. Arike – Kunmie
A surprise viral sensation, Arike captured hearts with its simplicity and emotional pull. Kunmie’s delivery felt sincere and relatable, helping the song spread organically across social media and streaming platforms. Its success highlighted the power of authenticity in Afrobeats’ evolving soundscape.
6. Venus – Faceless ft. Serotonin
One of 2025’s true breakout records, Venus thrived on smooth production and infectious rhythm. The collaboration between Faceless and Serotonin produced a song that was easy to love and hard to ignore. Heavy playlist rotation and online shares pushed it firmly into mainstream consciousness.
7. Pity This Boy – Odumodublvck ft. Victony
Grit met melody on Pity This Boy, a high-energy fusion of hip-hop and Afrobeats. Odumodublvck’s raw delivery, combined with Victony’s emotive vocals, created a powerful contrast that fans embraced. The song’s intensity and lyrical honesty helped it rack up major streams and street credibility.
8. Lost – FOLA ft. Kizz Daniel
Emotional and melodic, Lost struck a chord with listeners through its themes of love, confusion and vulnerability. Kizz Daniel’s signature smoothness elevated the track, while FOLA’s performance anchored its emotional core. Its strong chart run proved Afrobeats still thrives on heartfelt storytelling.
9. Kese (Dance) – Wizkid
Wizkid delivered a pure groove with “Kese (Dance),”ilt for movement and mood. The song dominated dance floors and playlists, showcasing Wizkid’s mastery of subtle, rhythmic Afrobeats. Its laid-back confidence and infectious beat made it a nightlife favourite throughout the year.
10. Funds – Davido x Odumodublvck x Chike
Blending grit, melody and star power, Funds brought together three distinct styles into one compelling record. Davido’s presence, Odumodublvck’s raw edge and Chike’s soulful touch created a balanced yet dynamic sound. The collaboration stood out for its range, appeal and strong streaming performance.
Together, these ten songs defined Afrobeats in 2025 — a year where emotion met energy, the streets met the charts, and Nigerian music continued its global takeover.
