Afrobeat, a genre that blends traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife, has transcended its Nigerian roots to become a global phenomenon. In recent years, the genre has seen an explosive rise in popularity, not just in Africa, but across the globe, influencing mainstream music and shaping cultural conversations in ways no one could have predicted. From Grammy wins to chart-topping hits, Afrobeat artists are leading a cultural revolution that is transforming the landscape of popular music worldwide.
What Is Afrobeat?
Afrobeat is a genre of music that originated in Nigeria in the late 1960s and early 1970s, pioneered by Nigerian musician Fela Kuti. It fuses traditional African music with jazz, funk, and highlife, creating a sound that is rich in percussion, horn sections, and complex rhythms. Fela Kuti’s political activism and ability to use music as a form of social commentary also played a significant role in shaping the genre’s identity.
However, Afrobeat as it is known today—often referred to as “Afrobeat” (a slightly different variant) or “Afropop”—has evolved significantly. While still holding onto its African roots, modern Afrobeat incorporates influences from hip-hop, dancehall, and pop, making it more accessible to a global audience.
Global Success: The Breakthrough of Nigerian Artists
The rise of Afrobeat in the global mainstream is largely due to the efforts of several high-profile Nigerian artists who have brought the genre into international limelight. These artists have created a new wave of music that resonates with diverse audiences while maintaining the genre’s African identity.
Wizkid, often referred to as the “King of Afrobeat,” played a pivotal role in popularizing the genre outside of Africa. His 2016 hit “Ojuelegba” and the subsequent album Sounds from the Other Side introduced Afrobeat to a wider international audience. However, it was his collaboration with Canadian artist Drake on the track “One Dance” that skyrocketed Afrobeat into the global mainstream, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2016.
Similarly, Burnaboy, another leading Nigerian artist, has brought Afrobeat to the forefront of global music culture. Burnaboy’s African Giant (2019) album earned him a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album, and in 2021, his album Twice as Tall won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album. Burna Boy’s success exemplifies how Afrobeat’s influence is no longer limited to niche audiences but is now a driving force in the global music industry.
Afrobeat’s Global Influence in 2025
In 2025, Afrobeat’s influence continues to spread across continents, with artists from various regions incorporating Afrobeat-inspired elements into their music. A prime example is Tems, a Nigerian singer who gained international recognition after contributing vocals to Future’s “Wait for U” and Drake’s “Fountains.” Her smooth vocal delivery combined with Afrobeat’s rhythm has earned her a devoted following worldwide, and she’s now a frequent collaborator with global artists, signaling the genre’s full integration into the pop mainstream.
Afrobeat’s influence also extends into the world of music festivals. The genre has taken center stage at major music festivals such as Coachella, Glastonbury, and Lollapalooza, where both established Afrobeat stars and rising talent perform to large international audiences. At Coachella 2022, Burna Boy made history as the first African artist to headline the festival, marking a significant milestone for Afrobeat on the global stage.
The Cultural Significance of Afrobeat
Afrobeat is more than just a musical genre; it is a cultural movement that reflects the diversity, history, and resilience of African people. Artists who embrace Afrobeat often use their platform to address social and political issues affecting African communities, much like Fela Kuti did in the 1970s. Today’s artists continue to use their music as a tool for empowerment, activism, and social change.
Afrobeat’s influence on global culture has also contributed to the broader conversation about the recognition of African culture in the arts. With the success of Afrobeat artists, African fashion, dance, and art are also gaining increased visibility in international pop culture. The use of African-inspired designs in global fashion shows, the viral popularity of dance moves like the “Zanku” and “Shaku Shaku,” and the growing trend of Afrobeats-influenced music videos are all testaments to Afrobeat’s cultural impact.
Furthermore, Afrobeat has become a symbol of pride for Africans around the world, celebrating the richness and diversity of African cultures while bringing attention to issues such as poverty, corruption, and human rights abuses. The genre has become a voice for the voiceless, amplifying the stories and struggles of people across the African continent.
The Role of Social Media and Streaming Platforms
The digital age has played a crucial role in Afrobeat’s rise to global prominence. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have allowed Afrobeat artists to reach fans across the world without the need for traditional media channels. TikTok, in particular, has become a hub for viral Afrobeat dance challenges, which have helped fuel the genre’s international appeal.
Streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music have also played an essential role in Afrobeat’s global growth. In 2021, Spotify launched its first-ever African music hub, and Afrobeat playlists now feature prominently on the platform, highlighting the genre’s wide appeal. The accessibility of music streaming has allowed listeners from all over the world to discover Afrobeat, helping it transcend geographic boundaries and cultural divides.
For example, Davido, another major Nigerian artist, has amassed millions of streams on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. His collaboration with American artists such as Chris Brown and Lil Baby has further solidified Afrobeat’s status as a global genre.
Challenges and the Road Ahead for Afrobeat
Despite its global success, Afrobeat still faces challenges, particularly in the Western music industry. One of the most significant barriers for Afrobeat artists is the lack of mainstream radio play and coverage in Western media outlets. While streaming platforms provide ample exposure, the traditional music industry’s hesitancy to fully embrace Afrobeat continues to hinder the genre’s potential for broader recognition.
Additionally, the commercialization of Afrobeat has raised concerns among some purists, who fear that the genre’s authenticity and cultural significance could be diluted as it becomes more mainstream. There is a fine line between celebrating African culture and commodifying it for profit, and it remains to be seen how Afrobeat will navigate this challenge as its popularity continues to grow.
Nonetheless, the genre’s global momentum shows no signs of slowing down. As Afrobeat artists continue to collaborate with global stars and push the boundaries of their music, the genre is set to become an even more integral part of the global music ecosystem in the years to come.
By: Simone Brooks