We’ve acknowledged the legends who just missed the cut, counted down from 20 to 6, and now, it’s time for the crown jewels.
These Top 5 Afrobeats Stars of the 21st Century are more than hitmakers—they are era-defining figures who’ve pushed the boundaries of sound, style, and storytelling.
They’ve sold out arenas, sparked global trends, earned critical acclaim, and influenced generations of artists across Africa and beyond. Their impact is not just felt in playlists, but in culture, fashion, identity, and the very DNA of the Afrobeats movement.
This is the summit. The five names that’ve shaped the soundtrack of a generation.
#5: 2Baba (TuFace)
Since African Queen in 2004, 2Baba has been Afropop royalty. With over 20 years in the game, his smooth vocals and timeless songwriting have earned national awards and international recognition, including an MTV Europe Music Award. His albums—like Face 2 Face and The Unstoppable—are packed with classics that still fill dance floors today.
#4: Olamide
Since debuting with Rapsodi in 2011, Olamide has built a legacy that will outlive him. His impactful career stands on a foundation of 10+ projects and a plethora of anthems that resonate with street and mainstream audiences. Olamide not only clawed his way to the top, but he has also helped many others get to the pinnacle through his YBNL label. In 2023, he became the first and only Nigerian rapper to earn a Grammy nomination.
#3: Davido
Davido exploded in 2012 with Dami Duro and has never looked back. He boasts billions of streams, endorsements from global brands, and a Netflix documentary in the works, all earned thanks to his energetic performances and catchy hooks. His five studio albums are all packed with chart-toppers, making him arguably the greatest hitmaker in Afrobeats history.
#2: Burna Boy
Twice as Tall crowned him a Grammy winner, but Burna Boy’s status as an all-timer was cemented long before. With several gold and platinum certifications worldwide, he has broken attendance records in arenas and stadiums worldwide. His elite ability to fuse Afrobeats, dancehall, and hip-hop has led to a discography of truly special music.
#1: Wizkid
Wizkid’s career officially started in 2010 with Holla at Your Boy; a decade and a half later, he is comfortably the continent’s greatest export. From becoming one of only seven artists in history to sell out the O2 in 12 minutes or less to becoming the first Nigerian artist to reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100, Wizkid’s career has been one of many firsts and previously unimaginable feats. His style and sound have evolved with time, but what will remain constant is an impactful discography that will resonate globally for generations to come.
The Top 5 are more than just musicians. They are cultural ambassadors, business moguls, and global icons.
Through highs, lows, reinventions, and revolutions, they’ve made Afrobeats not just a genre, but a global force.
This list may spark debate, but one thing is certain: the story of 21st-century Afrobeats cannot be told without these names.
Thank you for following our Top 20 Afrobeats Stars of the 21st Century ranking series.
