Nigerian Artists Make History on Apple Music’s Top 500 Most Streamed Songs of All Time
Nigerian music has once again made a significant mark on the global stage, with two of its most celebrated artists, Temilade Openiyi (known professionally as Tems) and Ayodeji Balogun (better known as Wizkid), securing their place among the top African artists on Apple Music’s list of the Top 500 most streamed songs of all time. This achievement highlights the growing influence of African music on international platforms and underscores the rising prominence of Nigerian artists in the global music scene.
The list, which was unveiled to commemorate Apple Music’s 10th anniversary, features some of the most iconic tracks that have captivated audiences around the world. Among these, Wizkid and Tems stand out as the only African artists included, showcasing the impact of their music on a global scale.
Wizkid, one of Nigeria’s most internationally recognized musicians, made an impressive appearance in the top 10 with his 2016 hit “One Dance,” which he co-created with Canadian rapper Drake and British singer Kyla. The song not only topped charts across multiple countries but also became a defining track of the Afrobeats era, blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary pop and hip-hop influences.
Tems, on the other hand, secured the 42nd position on the list with her collaboration with Drake titled “Wait for U.” The track received widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and melodic structure, further solidifying Tems’ reputation as one of the most talented voices in modern African music.
At the top of the list is British singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran, whose hit “Shape of You” remains one of the most-streamed songs in history. Following closely behind is The Weeknd with his chart-topping single “Blinding Lights.” The rest of the top 10 includes a mix of global superstars such as Drake, Post Malone, Travis Scott, Chris Brown, Billie Eilish, Swae Lee, and 21 Savage.
This recognition by Apple Music highlights the increasing global demand for African music and the role of artists like Wizkid and Tems in shaping the future of the industry. Their inclusion on such a prestigious list not only celebrates their individual achievements but also reflects the broader cultural shift towards embracing diverse musical expressions from different parts of the world.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the success of Nigerian artists on international platforms serves as a powerful testament to the creativity, talent, and resilience of African musicians. With more opportunities emerging for African artists to reach global audiences, the future looks promising for the continued growth and recognition of African music on the world stage.
