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Nigerian music sensations Ayra Starr and Tems have been named the most streamed Nigerian artists globally, according to Spotify, the leading music streaming platform. This announcement was made by Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, during an event in Lagos this week.
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Spotify’s Global Impact List for 2024 revealed the top 30 Nigerian artists with the biggest global streaming numbers. At the top of the list were Rauw Alexandro and Ayra Starr’s “Santa,” followed by Ayra Starr’s “Comma” in second place, and Tems’ “Love Me Jeje” in third.
Luciano and Omah Lay’s “Another Vibe” secured the fourth position, while Savage and Burna Boy’s “Metro Boomin Just Like Me” was fifth. Tyla and Tems’ “No.1” rounded out the top six.
“Nigerian music, especially Afrobeats, has captivated global audiences with its infectious rhythms, compelling storytelling, and innovative sound fusions,” said Okumu. “Its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries is truly remarkable. At Spotify, we are thrilled to witness and support the continued evolution of this vibrant scene.”
The global impact list highlights the top 30 tracks from Nigeria with the most global streams in the first half of 2024, covering songs released between January 1 and June 30. Usher and Pheelz’s “Ruin” ranked seventh, Reis B and Tempoe’s “Pretty Girl” was eighth, and TitoM, Yuppe, Burna Boy, and S.N.E’s “Tshwala Bam” took the ninth spot. Ayra Starr and Giveon’s “Last Heartbreak Song” came in tenth, followed by Victony’s “Everything” in eleventh and Aya Nakamura and Ayra Starr’s “Hype” in twelfth. Tems and J. Cole’s “Free Fall” was the thirteenth most streamed track.
Okumu noted that female artists, particularly Ayra Starr and Tems, are leading the charge with their recent album releases. The list also highlights the prevalence of international collaborations, with eight of the top ten tracks featuring partnerships with global superstars, demonstrating the cross-cultural appeal and growing global impact of Nigerian music.
