Celebrating Women in Afrobeats: Top Songs by Female Artists

Afrobeats has become a global music sensation, and while many male artists have garnered attention, women in Afrobeats have been a driving force, creating timeless music that’s captured hearts worldwide. This Women’s Month, we celebrate some of the biggest songs by women in Afrobeats, recognizing their contributions to the genre and their influence on music worldwide.

1. Tiwa Savage – “All Over”

Tiwa Savage is often regarded as the queen of Afrobeats. “All Over” is one of her major hits that took over the charts, showcasing her ability to blend Afrobeat rhythms with mainstream appeal. The song’s catchy hook and infectious melody made it a hit in Nigeria and beyond, cementing Tiwa as an Afrobeats icon.

2. Yemi Alade – “Johnny”

Yemi Alade’s “Johnny” is one of the most iconic songs in Afrobeats. Released in 2013, it quickly became a hit across Africa and beyond. The song tells a story of love and heartbreak, with Yemi’s energetic performance and captivating voice resonating with listeners. “Johnny” remains one of her most memorable tracks, highlighting her unique style in the Afrobeats scene.

3. Angelique Kidjo – “Wombo Lombo”

The opening refrain on this song is one of the most infectious intros from the 90s. ‘Wombo Lombo’ which is reportedly an onomatopoeic description of a fish-like dance Kidjo encountered is a stand-out from her 1996 album Fifa, which saw Kidjo reconnecting with her African roots.

4. Niniola – “Maradona”

Niniola, known for her unique style that fuses Afrobeat and house music, made a massive impact with “Maradona.” The song became an instant hit across Africa, showcasing her powerful voice and irresistible energy. Niniola’s fusion of Afrobeat rhythms with electronic elements helped her carve out her own lane in the genre, and “Maradona” remains one of her signature songs.

5. Ayra Starr – “Rush”

The Afrobeat Princess achieved mainstream international recognition in 2022, with the release of her song “Rush”. The song charted in several territories, including Switzerland, Ireland and the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 24. It earned Starr a nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance.^[2]

6. Tyla – “Water”

Tyla gained international recognition with her masterpiece single ‘water’ that blends the vibrant energy of Amapiano with the soulful melodies of R&B and Afrobeats. Water was the first song by a South African soloist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years and was awarded the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance.

7. Tems –  “Love me jeje”

“Love Me JeJe” interpolates Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit song “Love Me Jeje”,  whereas Sodimu’s song is Nigerian hip-hop, Tems brings the song into an Afrobeats landscape. The song won Best African Music Performance at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.

8. Aya Nakamurah– “Djadja”

Aya Nakamura became the first female African artist to reach 1 billion views on YouTube for her single ‘Djadja’. Released in 2018, “Djadja” is a blend of Afrobeat and pop, with an infectious beat and lyrics in both French and Bambara. The song’s success on YouTube is a testament to Nakamura’s global appeal and the power of African music in the international arena.

9. Asa – “Jailer”

Asa, with her soulful voice, combines Afrobeat, soul, and pop influences. “Jailer” is one of her standout tracks, and it speaks to issues of personal and social freedom. Asa’s distinctive style and ability to blend genres make her one of the leading female figures in Afrobeats, and “Jailer” remains a fan favorite.

10. Amaarae – “Sad Girlz Luv Money”

“Sad Girlz Luv Money” is an Afropop song that talks about “money as a means of personal growth and how sometimes one can’t control the desire to dance”. It achieved viral popularity on TikTok after a remix with Colombian singer Kali Uchis was released in September 2021 and appearing on various international charts, including reaching number 80 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Conclusion

Women have been instrumental in shaping the Afrobeats genre, breaking boundaries and creating unforgettable music. From Tiwa Savage’s global dominance to the rise of new voices like Tyla, the future of Afrobeats looks bright with women leading the charge. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s continue to uplift and support the incredible female artists making their mark on Afrobeats and the global music scene.