Since 1999, Nigerian music has made significant strides on the international stage, thanks to a steady flow of talent, industry growth, and global interest. Here’s a list of 20 Nigerian songs that have achieved notable international success:
“African Queen” – 2Baba
This iconic track not only marked a high point for 2Baba but also made waves across Africa and the US, even featuring in the 2006 Hollywood film Phat Girlz.
“Nwa Baby” – Flavour
Initially popular in Nigeria, this song gained further acclaim in South Africa, elevating Flavour to international prominence.
“Oliver Twist” – D’banj
Considered a pioneering Afrobeats crossover hit, D’banj’s track made its mark on the UK Official Singles Chart.
“Ojuelegba” – Wizkid
This track played a crucial role in Wizkid’s rise, especially with Drake’s freestyle boosting its global recognition and contributing to their joint hit “One Dance.”
“Fall” – Davido
After a brief setback, Davido’s “Fall” became a major hit in the UK and US, gaining widespread radio play and international acclaim.
“YE” – Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s “YE” saw a surge in international popularity, especially after Kanye West’s EP of the same name, helping Burna Boy achieve platinum status in the US.
“Last Last” – Burna Boy
This track became a global sensation, featuring prominently on the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Official Singles Chart, and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Global Performance.
“Essence” – Wizkid
Praised by Kanye West as one of the greatest songs in music history, “Essence” achieved massive success, including multiple Grammy nominations and 3X RIAA platinum certification.
“Calm Down” – Rema
The song gained international fame, especially with its remix featuring Selena Gomez, and became the first Afrobeats track to surpass 1 billion Spotify streams.
“Love Nwantiti” – CKay
CKay’s viral hit found success on TikTok and charted in over 30 countries, including topping charts in Portugal, France, and Switzerland, with platinum certifications in the US and UK.
“Ameno Amapiano” – Goya Menor feat Nektunez
This track, initially popular in Nigeria, gained global fame through TikTok, becoming one of the biggest hits to emerge from Nigeria.
“Peru” – Fireboy feat Ed Sheeran
Fireboy’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran on the remix of “Peru” saw it enter the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart, with a memorable performance at the 2023 BET Awards.
“Kulosa” – Oxlade
Oxlade’s “Kulosa” became a global hit, with TikTok users worldwide recreating his dance moves from the song’s iconic performance.
“Buga” – Kizz Daniel & Tekno
The collaboration between Kizz Daniel and Tekno resulted in a massive 2022 hit that even had the Liberian president dancing along.
“Soweto” – Victony & Tempoe
Victony’s “Soweto” achieved significant international success, propelling him into the global mainstream spotlight.
“Rush” – Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr’s “Rush” not only earned her a Grammy nomination but also achieved diamond certification in France.
“Soso” – Omah Lay
Omah Lay’s “Soso” became his most significant hit, reaching audiences beyond Nigeria.
“Sungba” – Asake feat Burna Boy
Asake’s remix of “Sungba,” featuring Burna Boy, solidified his rise in the global music scene.
“City Boy” – Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s “City Boy” continued his streak of global hits and received a Grammy nomination.
“Unavailable” – Davido
Davido’s “Unavailable” further cemented his presence in the international music arena.
These tracks illustrate the growing influence of Nigerian music on a global scale.