In today’s global music landscape, Afrobeats and other African musical forms are emerging as powerful vehicles for cultural exchange and soft power. These dynamic sounds are not only fostering pride in African identity but also reshaping global trends, leading to significant recognition for African artists. The recent stands as a compelling testament to this cultural renaissance.
Every week, the explosion of African music on streaming platforms and social media affirms this greatness, as we spotlight the highlights that continue to elevate our stars, events, culture, food, finesse and glamour to the forefront of global pop culture, at a time when technology is rapidly transforming how we experience it all.
READ ALSO: Celebrating African Music on the Global Stage
Burna Boy: The African Giant Takes Centre Stage
It was a series of landmark moments for the African Giant and self-styled ‘Odogwu’ Burna Boy, as he became the first African artist to headline the iconic Stade de France in Paris. The 80,698-capacity stadium served as a fitting venue, cementing his position as a major figure in contemporary music.
According to Abdulmuqsit Abolaji Idowu, Afrobeats and pop culture writer, “Burna Boy’s remarkable capacity to sustain exceptional, high-octane live performances across years of exhaustive global touring stands as a fundamental pillar of his ability to consistently fill venues to capacity. His shows are far more than concerts; they are meticulously crafted experiences that resonate deeply with fans, ensuring his relevance in an ever-evolving music landscape. The reimagined renditions of his hit records, infused with fresh energy and improvisation, showcase his versatility and keep each performance unique.”
Idowu also highlights the synergy between Burna Boy and his band, The Outsiders, a relationship he has cultivated over nearly a decade of global touring. “The Outsiders, his exceptionally talented band, elevate these shows with their masterful instrumentation, delivering seamless, soul-stirring live arrangements that amplify the emotional and sonic impact of Burna Boy’s music,” he adds.
The Stade de France concert was a celebration of sound and unity, featuring esteemed artists like Senegal’s Youssou N’Dour, British rapper Santan Dave, French-Congolese singer Dadju, French-Haitian artist Joé Dwèt Filé, Nissi, Werenoi, Fireboy DML, Shallipopi, DJ Lambo and others. These performances showcased not just individual excellence but a shared spirit that runs through the Afrobeats movement. Burna Boy’s recent success, including his sold-out show in Manchester, paves the way for his peers, underscoring the rising global visibility and respect for African music.
Rema and Davido: The Next Wave of Afrobeats
In a parallel narrative, Rema—often referred to as the Crown Prince of Afrobeats—captivated audiences at Coachella 2025 during Weekend 2 with songs like “YAYO,” “AZAMAN,” “Baby (Is It a Crime),” “Bout U” and “Ozeba.” His performance was met with enthusiastic reception, as he continues to spread the gospel of Afrobeats across Africa and the world.
Not to be outdone, the King of Afrobeats, Davido, delivered an electrifying set at Homecoming ’25. Accompanied by his tour DJ, DJ Ecool, the well-produced show featured a vibrant mix of tracks from his fifth studio album 5ive, alongside classic hits that resonated with the crowd.
The Homecoming Festival in Lagos, Nigeria—founded by Grace Ladoja and produced by Metallic Inc.—is a multi-day celebration of African culture through music, fashion, art and sport. Since its inception in 2018, the festival has served as a platform for youth across creative industries to showcase talent to the world. This year’s edition, held from 17 to 21 April, brought together a fusion of local and international talent, with events primarily held at the Homecoming Concept Space in Victoria Island.
The Kenyan Wave
Kenya is also experiencing a remarkable surge in musical visibility. In 2024, over 95 million new listeners discovered Kenyan music on platforms like Spotify, reflecting growing international interest. The growth spans diverse genres—from gengetone to Afro-pop—demonstrating innovation that both preserves traditional roots and embraces modern global influences.
Digital platforms have played a vital role, transforming local artists into global ambassadors while maintaining cultural authenticity. Notably, female Kenyan artists saw a 98% increase in international streams, highlighting their rising prominence. Spotify’s head of music for Africa, Phiona Okumu, noted that these metrics reinforce Kenyan music’s emergence as a global force, driven by talent and digital access. This evolving ecosystem is enabling Kenyan artists to gain worldwide recognition without compromising their roots.
Innovative Collaborations and New Releases
As always, this review would be incomplete without spotlighting the latest offerings from African music’s new vanguard. One such standout is “Gimme Dat” by Sabi Girl, featuring none other than Big Wiz (Wizkid). The track samples Wyclef Jean and Mary J. Blige’s 2000 hit “911,” which peaked at No. 6 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and No. 38 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.
Produced by VybeO and Mikabeatz, this marks the second collaboration between Ayra Starr and Wizkid, following their 2022 hit “2 Sugar” from More Love, Less Ego. That track was nominated for Best Afrobeats at the inaugural MTV VMAs Afrobeats category in 2023—alongside Ayra Starr’s own “Rush.”
Meanwhile, Shallipopi and Burna Boy teamed up on a remix of “Laho.” Burna not only featured on the track but brought Shallipopi on stage during performances in Paris and Manchester to the delight of fans. According to Burna on Instagram, what was released as a remix was actually the original version, delayed due to clearance conflicts.
Laho has since become a cultural phenomenon, sparking a viral dance trend and amassing over 43 million global streams. It’s already a strong contender for Afrobeats Song of the Year and may yet become the genre’s first global hit of 2025.
Tiwa Savage, the undisputed Queen of Afrobeats, also returned with her latest single “You4Me,” a sultry track built around a sample of Tamia’s 1998 classic “So Into You.” Collaborating once again with Mystro, Tiwa delivers a 90s-inspired R&B anthem tailored for romantic moments and dancefloor vibes.
Nigeria’s top pop culture curator, Ayomide Tayo, remarked, “From the early days of Remedies sampling to now, Afrobeats artists have leaned on the creativity of Hip Hop and R&B music to create fresh hits.” You4Me sets the stage for Tiwa’s fourth studio album This One is Personal, scheduled for release this summer.
Music journalist Adeayo Adebiyi commented, “It doesn’t look like anyone is ready to do what Tiwa did for the game in terms of representing women at the mass level of local consumption. Simply put, five years ago, Tiwa Savage would’ve balled on a ‘Hey Jago’ remix. There’s a gap.”
Branding expert Oreoluwa Peters added, “She set her own blueprint for what it takes to be a female popstar in Nigeria. She took the heat for that Fever appearance, got Ma Lo in return, and consistently provided representation on mainstream remixes like Codeine Diet, Who’s Your Guy and more.”
Other notable releases include:
Runtown – Do Me
FOLA & Kizz Daniel – Lost
Boy Spyce & Jeriq – Achalugo
Minz, Oxlade & Jacquees – F.U. 2
Ric Hassani – Make Me Believe
1da Banton – Woza
DJ Obi & Timaya – Patek
The Afrobeats movement isn’t just about the music—it’s a cultural narrative, celebrating African identity through rhythm and creativity. The scene remains rich and diverse, with artists consistently pushing creative boundaries and telling stories that connect with audiences both at home and abroad.
As this musical revolution continues to unfold, it’s evident that African music is leveraging its cultural capital to reshape global pop culture. The evolution of Afrobeats, with its ever-expanding reach, reaffirms music’s power to unite, inspire and elevate. The world is listening—and dancing—to the vibrant soundscape of Africa.
