Billboard Ranks 2Baba’s “African Queen” #1 on 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs of All Time

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Billboard has unveiled its list of the 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs of All Time, and at the very top stands a Nigerian classic that needs no introduction: 2Baba’s “African Queen.”. The iconic love song, released in 2004, has defined a generation and continues to resonate globally as one of Africa’s most recognisable musical exports.

The ranking celebrates the songs that have shaped Afrobeats from its traditional highlife and Afrobeat origins to the modern-day chart-topping sounds of Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema. But it is 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, who clinched the number-one spot, underscoring his role as one of the most influential pioneers of the genre.

 

2Baba: The Man Behind the Anthem

Upon the release of “African Queen” on 2Baba’s debut solo album, Face 2 Face, it immediately resonated with fans throughout Africa and beyond. The song’s soulful lyrics, gentle acoustic guitar, and universal theme of love made it an anthem for weddings, romance, and cultural pride. It also broke barriers for Nigerian music, featuring in the Hollywood film Phat Girlz (2006) and introducing Afrobeats to Western audiences long before the genre became mainstream.

Billboard’s recognition of “African Queen” as the #1 Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time is not just about nostalgia; it is an acknowledgement of how the track paved the way for today’s global Afrobeats dominance.

 

Other Legends in the Top 10

The rest of the Top 10 reflects the rich diversity of Afrobeats, spotlighting both trailblazers and modern stars:

1. 2Baba – “African Queen” (2004)
2. Wizkid – “Ojuelegba” (2014)

A career-defining hit from Wizkid’s Ayo album. It introduced Afrobeats to global audiences, with a Drake & Skepta remix boosting its reach.

3. Flavour – “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)” (2011)

A modern reimagining of his 2005 track, blending highlife roots with dancehall vibes. A timeless wedding and party anthem.

4. Rema – “Calm Down” (2022)

A global smash, especially after Selena Gomez joined the remix. First African-led track to hit 1B Spotify streams and winner of MTV’s Afrobeats award.

5. Wizkid ft. Tems – “Essence” (2020)

A soulful, tender masterpiece from Made in Lagos. The Justin Bieber remix elevated it further, earning Grammy and major award nods.

6. CKay – “Love Nwantiti” (2019)

Viral sensation that sparked a global TikTok trend and multiple remixes. Certified multi-platinum across the world.

7. D’banj – “Oliver Twist” (2011)

Playful, witty, and genre-bending. Cracked the UK Top 10 and helped announce Afrobeats on the global stage.

8. Davido – “Fall” (2017)

One of Davido’s biggest hits blends mid-tempo grooves with heartfelt lyrics. First Afrobeats song certified Gold in the U.S.

9. Burna Boy – “Ye” (2018)

An anthem of resilience and audacity. Platinum-certified globally, it became Burna Boy’s breakthrough to superstardom.

10. P-Square – “Chop My Money (Remix)” ft. Akon (2012)

A massive cross-border collaboration that showcased Afrobeats’ global ambition. Cemented P-Square’s legendary status.

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A Blend of Old and New

What stands out in Billboard’s ranking is the balance between pioneers and new-school artists. While 2Baba, Oliver De Coque, and Fela Kuti represent the roots and foundation of African music, contemporary stars like Rema, Asake, and CKay represent the new wave pushing Afrobeats into global playlists and collaborations.

This deliberate mix underscores the fact that Afrobeats is not just a trend but a cultural movement that has been decades in the making. The foundations laid by legends created a path for the Davidos and Burna Boys of today to dominate international charts.

 

Why “African Queen” Still Matters

Two decades later, “African Queen” remains more than a song; it is a symbol of African beauty, pride, and storytelling through music. Unlike many contemporary hits driven by streaming algorithms and viral moments, the song endures because of its simplicity and emotional depth.

By crowning 2Baba’s masterpiece, Billboard is recognising that Afrobeats’ global success is not built solely on today’s superstars but also on timeless songs that gave the genre its identity.

 

The Full List Beyond the Top 10

The Billboard list also includes tracks from Tiwa Savage (All Over), Olamide (First of All), Yemi Alade (Johnny), Fireboy DML (Jealous), P-Square (Do Me), Mr Eazi (Leg Over), and others who have contributed to Afrobeats’ rise. Each entry reflects the genre’s fusion of culture, rhythm, and modern influences that have made it a global force.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why was 2Baba’s “African Queen” chosen as number one?

A: Billboard highlighted the song’s foundational role in introducing Afrobeats to the world, its enduring popularity, and its influence on shaping the genre globally.

Q2: How were the songs selected?

A: Billboard’s editors and writers considered influence, popularity, streaming impact, cultural relevance, and overall contribution to the genre.

Q3: Is Afrobeats the same as Afrobeat?

A: No. Afrobeat is the original genre pioneered by Fela Kuti in the 1970s, characterised by jazz, funk, and political themes. Afrobeats (with an “s”) refers to the contemporary fusion of African rhythms with pop, hip-hop, and R&B influences.

Q4: Which artists dominated the list?

A: Nigerian artists such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Tiwa Savage, and CKay had multiple entries, reflecting Nigeria’s central role in Afrobeats’ global rise.

Q5: What does this mean for the future of Afrobeats?

A: The recognition shows that Afrobeats is no longer just Africa’s sound; it is a global genre poised to shape the future of mainstream music.