By Olaitan Ibrahim
Nigerian music stars Asake and Ayra Starr were named the most streamed artistes in Nigeria for 2024 on Spotify, according to the company’s “Spotify Wrapped 2024” report.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, revealed this in a statement on Wednesday.
Okumu stated that the top ten most streamed male artistes in Nigeria for the year included Asake, Seyi Vibez, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, Bnxn, ODUMODUBLVCK, Shallipopi, Davido, and Young Jonn.
The top ten most streamed female artistes in Nigeria, according to her, were Ayra Starr, Tems, Qing Madi, Billie Eilish, SZA, Tiwa Savage, Bloody Civilian, Rihanna, Simi, and Fave.
Okumu also listed the ten most streamed tracks in Nigeria as: Dealer by Ayo Maff and Fireboy; Different Pattern by Seyi Vibez; Higher by Burna Boy; WOTO WOTO SEASONING by ODUMODUBLVCK and Black Sherif; Aquafina by Young Jonn; Stronger by Young Jonn; Egwu by Chike and Mohbad; Instagram by Muyeez and Seyi Vibez; Cast by Shallipopi and ODUMODUBLVCK; and POE by Ruger and Bnxn.
“For the fourth year running, Nigerian artistes have dominated the top ten most-streamed list, solidifying the country’s enduring love for its homegrown talent,” Okumu said.
“Asake claimed the title of the most-streamed artiste in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Gambia, and Benin.”
She noted that it wasn’t just the Gen Z audience who were captivated by these stars. Asake, alongside Burna Boy, Shallipopi, and Seyi Vibez, also resonated with listeners across a wide age range, from 13 to 55+ years, all landing on the top ten artists list for these groups.
Rising stars Ayo Maff and Muyeez made their mark on the most-streamed tracks list with Dealer and Instagram, reflecting the industry’s bright future.
“Young Jonn’s hits, Aquafina and Stronger, demonstrated his staying power, while Burna Boy’s Higher held its ground. It’s a dynamic mix of the old and new, driving the industry forward,” Okumu added.
She also praised Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, describing it as a global force to be reckoned with. “Spotify is always honoured to showcase the depth of Nigerian music and its incredible talents through ‘Wrapped’ each year,” Okumu said.
“The seamless blend of generations and genres highlights the unique power of Nigerian music to resonate both locally and globally. It’s inspiring to see how our artistes are shaping culture not only at home but also making waves internationally.”