When Spotify unveiled its staff curated list of the 100 Greatest Pop Songs of the Streaming Era, it was more than a celebration of global pop excellence. It was also a defining cultural moment. Among songs that have shaped modern pop, three records rooted deeply in African sound and identity earned their place.
At number 8 sat One Dance by Drake featuring Wizkid and Kyla. At number 29 was Calm Down by Rema featuring Selena Gomez and at number 50, Water by Tyla.
These were merited placements that reflect real cultural impact, evolution, and global reach. Together, they tell the story of how African music moved from the margins of global pop into its very foundation.
One Dance at Number 8
One Dance is not just one of the biggest songs of the streaming era. It is one of the most important. Released in 2016, the record became the first song in Spotify history to cross one billion streams. Years later, it has accumulated billions more, standing as one of the most streamed songs ever released.
But its true impact goes beyond numbers.
One Dance helped normalize Afrobeats within mainstream global pop. Its rhythm, structure, and melodic direction leaned heavily on African sonic traditions. Wizkid’s presence was central to this identity. His delivery brought authenticity and ensured the song was not simply inspired by Afrobeats but was built on it.
The success of One Dance reshaped industry perception. It showed labels, artists, and audiences that African sounds could lead global pop, not just influence it.
Its number 8 placement on Spotify’s list confirms what many already knew. One Dance was not just a hit; it was a cultural turning point.
Calm Down at Number 29
If One Dance opened the door, Calm Down ensured it stayed open. The Song That Cemented Afrobeats as Global Pop. Released in 2022 and elevated further by its remix featuring Selena Gomez, Calm Down became the most successful Afrobeats crossover song ever released. It broke streaming records, spent over a year on major global charts, and became a defining record of its generation.
Rema’s success with Calm Down proved that African artists could now lead global pop conversations without altering their artistic makeup. Spotify’s recognition of the song among the greatest of the streaming era solidifies its place as one of the most important global records of the modern era.
Water at Number 50
Driven by minimalist production, log drum rhythms, and atmospheric groove, Water captured global attention and became a defining record for the genre. Its success opened new doors not just for Tyla. It proved that African genres beyond Afrobeats could achieve global pop success while retaining their original identity.
Relevance of this Recognition to African Music
Spotify’s list is significant because it reflects editorial judgment, not just streaming numbers. These selections represent songs that defined the streaming era culturally and musically.
For African music to earn three placements, including one inside the top 10, is historic. From Wizkid’s role in One Dance, to Rema’s global dominance with Calm Down, to Tyla’s western dominance with Water, African artists have defined key moments of the streaming era.
It confirms that African genres are no longer niche, they are shaping the future of pop music itself. The streaming era removed traditional geographic barriers. It allowed sounds from Lagos, Johannesburg, and across the continent to reach listeners worldwide instantly.
African music is no longer emerging. It is established.