Rolling Stone has released its much-anticipated ranking of the top Afropop songs of 2023. The list, curated by music critics from five different African countries, showcases the rich tapestry of musical genres and talents that define the continent’s dynamic music landscape.
This marks the second time Rolling Stone has published such a comprehensive list, with a dedicated focus on artists who primarily reside on or contribute to the African continent. The selection process considered hits that shape musical scenes within Africa and its diaspora, emphasizing unique elements such as language, production techniques, and cultural influences.
Nigerian artists have once again demonstrated their dominance, with notable names securing places on the prestigious list. Some of the top Nigerian stars featured include Davido, Mohbad, Blaqbonez, Ayra Starr, Rema, and more.
Rolling Stone’s motivation behind the list was articulated by the media giants: “As genre lines blur everywhere, we thought of Afropop as a catch-all for music by artists who primarily live on or work for the continent, making hits that define scenes and communities there and in its diaspora. This is a celebration of African genius, creativity, and spirit.”
The list is a testament to the global impact of Afropop, capturing the essence of diverse musical traditions and innovations, from East African Swahili to West African pidgin, and distinctive production styles like the popular log drum programming of South African amapiano.
See full list of the top Afropop songs of 2023 here:
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