When Rolling Stone unveiled its list of 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far, it wasn’t just a celebration of global hits, it was a recognition of how far Nigerian music has traveled. Five Nigerian songs found their place on the prestigious list, signaling how deeply Afrobeats and its fusion sounds have seeped into the world’s musical bloodstream.
Which Nigerian Songs Made the List, and Their Ranks
| Song | Artist(s) | Rank on the list | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Essence” — Wizkid ft. Tems | Wizkid & Tems | #22 | The highest-ranking Nigerian song, and a global anthem that broke barriers for Afrobeats. |
| “Last Last” — Burna Boy | Burna Boy | #95 | A heartbreak anthem turned worldwide singalong, cementing Burna’s global dominance. |
| “Woman” — Rema | Rema | #228 | A sleek blend of Afrobeats and sensual pop that showcases Rema’s star power. |
| “Free Mind” — Tems | Tems | #232 | A deeply introspective record that proves the emotional range of Nigerian music. |
| “Unavailable” — Davido ft. Musa Keys | Davido & Musa Keys | #243 | A dance-floor favorite merging Afrobeats and Amapiano into global rhythm. |
Five songs. Five different moods. Five distinct representations of what Nigerian sound has evolved into, from sultry introspection to celebratory energy.
What this means for afrobeats
Growing Recognition
Having multiple Nigerian entries on such a globally respected list highlights a turning point. Nigerian artists are no longer on the sidelines of global pop culture; they’re right in the center. “Essence” landing at #22 isn’t just about chart success, it’s a cultural milestone that defined an era.
Diversity of Styles
The range of Nigerian songs on the list reflects the genre’s versatility. “Free Mind” whispers where “Unavailable” commands. “Last Last” and “Woman” dance in completely different emotional lanes, showing that Afrobeats isn’t a single formula but a spectrum of moods and ideas.
Afrobeats’ Ascendance
Rolling Stone’s inclusion of these songs isn’t just about popularity; it’s about artistry. Nigerian music has matured into a global sound capable of depth, complexity, and longevity. The world isn’t just consuming Afrobeats, it’s canonizing it.
Comparison with Nigerian Albums on Rolling Stone’s Album List
Nigerian dominance doesn’t stop at singles. In Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Albums of the 21st Century So Far, four Nigerian albums also made the cut:
| Album | Artist | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| African Giant | Burna Boy | #120 |
| Mr Money With the Vibe | Asake | #142 |
| For Broken Ears | Tems | #222 |
| Made in Lagos | Wizkid | #228 |
It’s a clear statement: Nigerian artists are not just making hits, they’re crafting entire bodies of work that stand the test of time.
Broader Implications
This moment represents more than just accolades; it’s an affirmation. Nigerian music is no longer emerging — it has emerged. The success of songs like “Essence” and “Last Last” marks a cultural shift where Afrobeats isn’t just globalized, it’s global. It speaks to a generation of artists who’ve turned rhythm, resilience, and identity into world-conquering art.
There’s still room for more recognition, more inclusion, and more representation. But if this list proves anything, it’s that the sound of the 21st century has a distinctly Nigerian heartbeat.