In a remarkable affirmation of the global power of Nigerian music, Spotify has revealed that Burna Boy and Asake emerged as the most streamed artists in Nigeria for 2022. The data reflects a pivotal moment for Afrobeats and its growing influence across continents, signaling a continued surge in the popularity of homegrown talent both locally and abroad.
This annual report from Spotify offered insight into the listening habits of Nigerian users and the wider African diaspora, confirming that the nation’s cultural exports—especially music—are not only thriving at home but capturing global audiences with unprecedented success.
Burna Boy: Nigeria’s Global Giant Maintains His Throne
Burna Boy, the self-proclaimed African Giant, secured the top spot as the most streamed Nigerian artist in 2022, marking yet another year of dominance. His sixth studio album, “Love, Damini,” released in July 2022, significantly contributed to his streaming milestones. Featuring hits like “Last Last”, “For My Hand” with Ed Sheeran, and “Common Person”, the album topped charts and received international acclaim.
Burna Boy’s unique blend of Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, and global pop has made him a favorite far beyond Africa’s borders. In addition to breaking streaming records, he made history by becoming the first Nigerian solo artist to sell out Madison Square Garden in New York. His sold-out world tour, collaborations with international acts, and Grammy recognition cemented his place as one of Africa’s foremost cultural icons.
Listeners on Spotify responded in kind, streaming his music millions of times, not just in Nigeria, but in key markets like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, South Africa, and France. Burna Boy’s consistent ability to deliver resonant music while representing Nigerian identity continues to drive his growing global fan base.
Asake: Breakout Star Redefines Street-Pop in Record Time
While Burna Boy held the crown, Asake emerged as the revelation of the year, securing his position as the second most streamed artist in Nigeria. In what can only be described as a meteoric rise, Asake, who is signed to YBNL Nation, transformed from a relatively unknown artist into a national sensation and household name within a single year.
His 2022 debut album, “Mr. Money With The Vibe,” was a runaway success, setting records on several platforms. The album’s fusion of street-hop, Fuji, and Amapiano birthed a distinctive sound that resonated widely. Tracks like “Peace Be Unto You (PBUY),” “Sungba (Remix)” featuring Burna Boy, and “Joha” became viral anthems, not just in Nigeria but across several African countries.
Spotify’s data revealed that Asake’s rise wasn’t just a fluke. His energetic delivery, spiritual undertones, and fresh sound created a massive wave, and Nigerian fans kept his music on repeat throughout the year. From street parties to university campuses and radio airwaves, Asake’s songs dominated every space, proving that authentic local sound can achieve mainstream success.
Women of Nigerian Music Shine Bright in 2022
Spotify’s year-end report didn’t just highlight male dominance. It also celebrated Nigeria’s top female acts, who made significant strides in 2022. Tems, fresh off her collaborations with Drake, Wizkid, and Future, ranked as the most streamed female Nigerian artist for the year.
Her global hit, “Free Mind,” along with her feature on “Wait for U” by Future (which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100), kept her name trending. Tems’ soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and consistent delivery have made her one of the most important new voices in R&B and Afrobeats.
Close behind her on the list were Ayra Starr and Tiwa Savage, two other female powerhouses making waves in Nigeria and beyond. Ayra Starr’s hit “Rush” dominated youth-centric playlists, while Tiwa Savage remained relevant with collaborations and festival appearances worldwide.
Spotify’s data shows that Nigerian women in music are no longer just supporting acts—they are central players in the country’s cultural story, bringing new energy, perspectives, and sounds to the global stage.
Most Streamed Songs in Nigeria: 2022 Anthems Revealed
In addition to the artist rankings, Spotify’s 2022 roundup included the most streamed songs in Nigeria for the year. Topping the list was Burna Boy’s “Last Last,” a heartbreak anthem that quickly turned into a club favorite and social media sensation. With its catchy sample of Toni Braxton’s “He Wasn’t Man Enough”, the song resonated with fans across age groups and demographics.
Following closely were hits like:
-
“Bandana” – Fireboy DML & Asake
-
“PALAZZO” – DJ Spinall & Asake
-
“Buga” – Kizz Daniel & Tekno
-
“Omo Ope” – Asake & Olamide
These tracks dominated playlists, radio rotations, and TikTok videos throughout the year. The data clearly reflects the massive influence of street-pop and Amapiano-infused Afrobeats, with artists embracing local rhythms while appealing to global sensibilities.
Afrobeats Goes Global: Nigeria Leads Africa’s Streaming Surge
Spotify’s end-of-year analysis also painted a broader picture: Nigerian artists are at the forefront of Africa’s digital music revolution. Afrobeats, which started as a West African genre, has now become a global movement, and Nigeria is its epicenter.
Over the past year, Spotify saw a significant uptick in Nigerian songs being added to playlists in North America, Europe, and Asia. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Audiomack have also launched Nigerian and African genre-specific playlists, which have amplified the reach of the continent’s musicians.
Nigerian music now plays in gyms in Los Angeles, clubs in London, and festivals in Berlin—proof that the country’s cultural output has fully entered the global mainstream. As Nigerian artists continue to collaborate with international stars and perform at global festivals, streaming platforms are helping remove traditional barriers that once limited African music’s exposure.
What Spotify’s 2022 Data Means for the Future
The streaming giant’s 2022 data confirms that Nigeria is not only producing world-class musical talent but also shaping global listening habits. The success of artists like Burna Boy and Asake underscores the changing nature of the music industry, where digital platforms are breaking down geographic limitations and enabling local sounds to reach global audiences.
For emerging artists, the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify presents an opportunity to reach listeners directly. With a smartphone, internet connection, and compelling sound, new talents can find international fame without needing major label deals or expensive promotion.
Music executives, festival organizers, and global brands are paying close attention. As the spotlight on Nigerian music grows, there’s no doubt that the country’s cultural exports will continue to be a dominant force in global entertainment.
