Top 10 West African Songs That Ruled 2024 – WAW Edition

Ikenna ChurchillDecember 23, 20243 Mins read25

In 2024, the West African music scene continued to glitter globally, with Nigeria leading this cultural tide. Rema, Ayra Starr, and Victony are the artists who have not just ruled the playlists but wowed the world because Nigeria is considered the heartbeat of Afrobeats. With mesmerising melodies and genre-defying artistry, the musicians have kept the dance floor alive and the streaming platform abuzz, setting new trends that ripple across the continent and beyond.

This is no accident but has resulted from years of innovation, industry investment, and raw talent in West African music dominated by Nigeria. From chart-topping hits in Rema’s Heis album to the genre-defining anthems from Ayra Starr, the country’s artists have mastered a way of folding local rhythms into global appeal. While neighboring countries like Ghana, Senegal, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Liberia also contributed brilliant tracks to 2024’s soundscape, there’s no denying that Nigeria’s Afrobeats remains the pulse driving West African music forward.

Here are the top 10 songs that defined West African music in 2024, showcasing the best of the region’s talent

1. “Egwu” By Chike and Mohbad

‘Egwu’ is an upbeat Afro-pop track from Chike’s 2024 album titled “Son of Chike”, on which the late Mohbad made a posthumous appearance. The song, produced by DeeYasso, is an energetic combination of beats with enchanting vocals that celebrates dance and life.

2. “Commas” by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr Off her second project, “The Year I Turned 21,” this song shows Ayra’s versatility and is commended for the sleek production and rhythm that makes one dance.

3. “Zero” by Black Sherif and Mabel

“Zero” is a vibrant collaboration between Ghanaian artist Black Sherif and UK singer Mabel, released in February 2024. It showcases Black Sherif’s distinctive vocals alongside Mabel’s melodic contributions. The accompanying music video, available on YouTube, visually enhances the energetic and uplifting vibe of the song.

4. “Risk” by Victony

“Risk” is the lead single from Victony’s first album, ‘Stubborn’, released on June 21, 2024. The song sonically fuses Afrobeats with trap and house influences, driven by Victony’s smooth vocals and rhythmic versatility. The lyrics speak about desire and ambition, going all out to get exactly what one wants.

5. Confuse by Wally B Seck, Mia Guisse and Amadeus

“Confuse” by Senegalese artist Wally B. Seck has emerged as one of the most popular tracks, engaging listeners with its contagious rhythm and absorbing lyrics. The track features Mia Guisse and Amadeus, fusing traditional Senegalese music with contemporary Afrobeats influences. And its trend is pronounced since it is positioned in the leading trends of Senegal’s Top 200.

6. “Wickedest” by Tems

“Wickedest” is one of the standout cuts from Nigerian singer Tems’ debut album, Born in the Wild, released on June 7, 2024. The song starts with a subtle interpolation of “1er Gaou” by the Ivorian zouglou band Magic System until Tems introduces her unique sound. “Wickedest” is all self-assuredness and survival, as Tems declares she is strong enough to get through troubles and win on her terms.

7. “Azaman” by Rema

“Azaman” is a hit single by Nigerian artist Rema, the second single from his second album, Heis, released on July 10, 2024. This track justifies Rema’s genres of Afrobeats and Afrorave, with an energetic rhythm and catchy lyrics that have already spread worldwide. “Azaman” has been referred to for its colourful production and performance by Rema, which added to the album’s critical reception.

8. “Everyday” by Fireboy DML

“Everday” is one of the significant releases by Nigerian artist Fireboy DML, which came on May 2, 2024. The track was included in his album Adedamola, released on August 29, 2024. This song features Afrobeats with modern R&B, as Fireboy DML delivers a soft and soulful melody with meaningful lyrics.

9. “Marabayasa” by Rail Band

“Marabayasa” is a vibrant track from Mali’s legendary Rail Band, which originally came out in 1973. The song combines traditional Mandé rhythms with Afro-Cuban influences, showcasing the band’s dynamic instrumentation and the soulful vocals of Mory Kanté. Its infectious groove and timeless appeal have made it a favourite among world music enthusiasts.

10. “Felony” by Anitram

“Felony” is an energetic single by Liberian act Anitram, released on March 1, 2024. With Kizzy W handling the production, the track features an Afrobeat instrumentation with modern twists as Anitram brings forth a lively yet catchy vocal performance with witty wordplay. A relatively successful song, “Felony, ” added to Anitram’s increasing relevance within West Africa.

These songs not only reflect the creativity of their creators but also the spirit and vibrancy of West African culture. As the world dances to the rhythm of these hits, it’s a reminder that music from this corner of the globe isn’t just entertainment; it’s a movement, a story, and a celebration of identity.