Nigerian rapper Emeka Akumefule, widely known as Blaqbonez, has shared his selection of the top greatest Afrobeats songs of all time. In a recent episode of the ‘Lagos’ podcast, he highlighted 2Face Idibia’s iconic track “African Queen” as the greatest Afrobeats song ever produced. This classic hit, which celebrates love and African beauty, has been a staple in the genre since its release and continues to resonate with fans.
In addition to “African Queen,” Blaqbonez included several other significant tracks in his list. He named Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba,” a song that reflects the hustle and vibrancy of life in Lagos, as well as Burna Boy’s “Ye,” which has become an anthem for resilience and success. Davido’s “If,” known for its catchy melody and romantic themes, also made the cut, alongside M.I’s “Safe,” a track that showcases M.I’s lyrical prowess and contribution to the genre.
Despite his selections, Blaqbonez’s list notably excluded some major hits that have played a crucial role in propelling Afrobeats onto the global stage. Songs like D’banj’s “Oliver Twist,” which gained international acclaim, and Wizkid and Tems’ “Essence,” a track that has achieved significant crossover success, were missing. Additionally, South African singer Tyla’s “Water,” CKay’s viral sensation “Love Nwantiti,” and Rema’s popular track “Calm Down” were also not included in his top five.
Blaqbonez stated, “My list of top 5 greatest Afrobeats songs of all time is very simple; ‘African Queen’ by 2Face, Wizkid’s ‘Ojuelegba’, Burna Boy’s ‘Ye’, Davido’s ‘If’, and ‘Safe’ by M.I.” His choices reflect a blend of classic and contemporary influences within the genre, showcasing the rich tapestry of Afrobeats music and its evolution over the years.
This discussion highlights the diversity and depth of Afrobeats, as well as the varying opinions among artists regarding what constitutes the “greatest” songs in the genre. Blaqbonez’s list serves as a conversation starter for fans and artists alike, inviting them to reflect on the tracks that have shaped their musical landscape.
