The year 2024 has been groundbreaking for Nigerian artists, as the global spotlight on Afrobeat continues to expand.
From sold-out tours to chart-topping hits and international collaborations, six Nigerian superstars have stood out as the torchbearers of this musical revolution: Davido, Tems, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, and Asake. These artists have not only redefined the Afrobeat genre but have also amplified Nigeria’s cultural footprint across the world.
Asake: Mr. Money’s Monumental Year
Asake, the breakout sensation of Afrobeat, made 2024 his own with his hit single Lonely At The Top. The track became one of the most-streamed Afrobeat songs globally, earning him a spot among the genre’s elite. His sophomore album Work of Art solidified his reputation, showcasing his knack for creating relatable, infectious music.
Onstage, Asake delivered high-octane performances in Lagos, Johannesburg, and Dubai, captivating audiences with his raw energy. His connection with fans, fueled by his authentic lyrics and vibrant beats, has made him a favorite among Afrobeat enthusiasts worldwide.
Davido: The Hitmaker Extraordinaire
2024 has been another banner year for Davido, solidifying his reign as Afrobeat’s ultimate showman. Building on the success of his chart-topping 2023 album Timeless, he lit up global stages with his electrifying energy and genre-defining sound. Among the highlights was his sensational collaboration with Ed Sheeran on Forever Yours, a heartfelt anthem that blended Afrobeat rhythms with Sheeran’s melodic charm. The track became a universal hit, dominating airwaves and playlists worldwide.
Offstage, Davido’s heart shone just as brightly. His We Rise By Lifting Others charity event in Lagos broke records, raising millions for underserved communities. It wasn’t just philanthropy; it was a declaration of his commitment to giving back. Davido’s unique ability to combine artistry, charisma, and activism has made him a cultural icon, transcending borders and uniting audiences.
Tems: The Voice of Modern Afrobeat
Tems continues to rewrite the rules of Afrobeat, captivating the world with her soulful artistry. Her Born In The Wild world tour swept across continents, leaving sold-out venues in New York, London, and Paris in awe of her vocal prowess and magnetic stage presence. This tour wasn’t just music—it was an experience.
A pinnacle of her year was the release of Lioness, her groundbreaking collaboration with Beyoncé. The track became a global feminist anthem, merging Tems’ soulful essence with Beyoncé’s powerhouse appeal. Tems’ Grammy nomination for Free Spirit further cemented her as a trailblazer, bridging the traditional Afrobeat sound with the sophistication of contemporary R&B. Her artistry is a beacon of Afrobeat’s evolution.
Burna Boy: The Trailblazer of Afro-Fusion
The self-proclaimed “African Giant,” Burna Boy, showed the world once again why he holds that title. His album I Told Them clinched the Grammy for Best Global Music Album, with standout tracks like Big 7 and Cheat on Me dominating charts and playlists.
However, Burna’s crowning moment came when he made history as the first African artist to headline Wembley Stadium in London. The sold-out show was more than a performance; it was a milestone for African music on the global stage. Known for his genre-defying sound and socially conscious lyrics, Burna Boy continues to lead Afrobeat’s charge into uncharted territories.
Wizkid: Big Wiz’s Unyielding Reign
Wizkid’s 2024 has been a masterclass in consistency and innovation. His Made in Lagos album tour broke attendance records, while Money & Love topped international charts, proving that Big Wiz’s allure knows no bounds.
On the collaborative front, his partnerships with Justin Bieber and Jorja Smith further expanded his global influence. At home, Wizkid remained a guiding force, mentoring emerging artists and advocating for unity in the Nigerian music scene. His ability to balance global stardom with his cultural roots sets him apart as a true Afrobeat ambassador.
Rema: Afrobeat’s Prodigy
Rema’s meteoric rise shows no signs of slowing down. In 2024, his debut album Stubborn unveiled a more experimental side, seamlessly blending Afrobeat with trap and pop influences. His global anthem Calm Down continued to break streaming records, but it was his performance at the BRIT Awards that stole the spotlight, introducing Afrobeat to a fresh audience.
With an energy that resonates with younger generations and a sound that pushes boundaries, Rema is not just a rising star—he’s a force shaping the future of Afrobeat.
The six Nigerian artists—Davido, Tems, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, and Asake—have dominated the music scene in 2024, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of African music.
Through their talent, innovation, and hard work, they have not only elevated Nigerian music but have also placed it firmly on the global stage. As the year closes, one thing is clear: Afrobeat is the sound of the future, and these artists are leading the charge.