2Baba Leads Billboard’s All-Time Afrobeats Chart with “African Queen

Billboard Crowns “African Queen” by 2Baba as the Greatest Afrobeats Hit Ever.

In a groundbreaking new ranking, Billboard has declared iconic “African Queen” (2004) by 2Baba as the #1 Afrobeats song of all time. The legendary love ballad has not only cemented its place in music history but also continues to influence the genre’s global trajectory.

Among the elite songs in the Top 10 Afrobeats songs ever, Wizkid emerges as the only artist with two entries: “Ojuelegba” at #2, and “Essence” (featuring Tems) at #5. Completing the Top 5 are:

• Flavour – “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)” at #3
• Rema – “Calm Down” at #4

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The rest of the Top 10 includes heavyweights like CKay (“Love Nwantiti”), D’banj (“Oliver Twist”), Davido (“Fall”), Burna Boy (“Ye”), and P-Square’s “Chop My Money (Remix)” featuring Akon.

Nigerian Dominance & Ghanaian Highlights

The list overwhelmingly highlights Nigerian Afrobeats dominance. Yet, Ghana isn’t left out—Fuse ODG’s “Azonto” (feat. Itz Tiffany) lands at #18, while Sarkodie’s “Adonai” (feat. Castro) sits at #19, showing the genre’s pan‑West African roots.

Leading the way for female artists is Yemi Alade, with her global hit “Johnny” ranked at #15. Other iconic Nigerian tracks featured in the Top 20 include Styl‑Plus’s “Olufunmi” (#11), 9ice’s “Gongo Aso” (#12), P‑Square’s “Do Me” (#13), as well as memorable songs from Wande Coal, Phyno, and Davido—underscoring the genre’s rich breadth and evolution.