Nigerian Artists Make Their Mark on Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century
When Rolling Stone unveiled its list of 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far, it wasn’t just a celebration of global hits, it was a recognition of how far Nigerian music has traveled. Five Nigerian songs found their place on the prestigious list, signaling how deeply Afrobeats and its fusion sounds have seeped into the world’s musical bloodstream. Which Nigerian Songs Made the List, and Their Ranks Song Artist(s) Rank on the list Notes “Essence” — Wizkid ft. […] The post Nigerian Artists Make Their Mark on Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century appeared first on HypeTribe.
When Rolling Stone released its compilation of 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far, it celebrated more than just worldwide chart‑toppers; it highlighted the reach of Nigerian music. Five tracks from Nigeria earned spots on the esteemed list, underscoring how Afrobeats and its hybrid styles have permeated the global soundscape.
Which Nigerian Songs Made the List, and Their Ranks
| Song | Artist(s) | Rank on the list | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Essence” — Wizkid ft. Tems | Wizkid & Tems | #22 | The top‑ranked Nigerian entry, a worldwide hit that shattered Afrobeats’ boundaries. |
| “Last Last” — Burna Boy | Burna Boy | #95 | A breakup ballad that evolved into a global sing‑along, solidifying Burna Boy’s worldwide influence. |
| “Woman” — Rema | Rema | #228 | A polished fusion of Afrobeats and sultry pop that highlights Rema’s rising stardom. |
| “Free Mind” — Tems | Tems | #232 | A profoundly reflective track that demonstrates the emotional depth of Nigerian songwriting. |
| “Unavailable” — Davido ft. Musa Keys | Davido & Musa Keys | #243 | A club‑ready hit that blends Afrobeats with Amapiano, creating a worldwide groove. |
Five tracks. Five distinct vibes. Five clear portraits of the evolution of Nigerian sound, spanning from intimate reflection to exuberant celebration.
What this means for afrobeats
Growing Recognition
The presence of several Nigerian songs on a highly respected global list marks a pivotal shift. Nigerian musicians are no longer peripheral to worldwide pop culture; they occupy the spotlight. “Essence” securing the #22 spot is more than a chart achievement—it represents a cultural landmark that shaped an era.
Diversity of Styles
The variety of Nigerian tracks on the list showcases the genre’s breadth. While “Free Mind” offers a subtle, contemplative tone, “Unavailable” delivers a commanding presence. “Last Last” and “Woman” traverse distinct emotional paths, proving that Afrobeats is not a monolithic formula but a wide array of moods and concepts.
Afrobeats’ Ascendance
Rolling Stone’s selection of these tracks goes beyond popularity; it celebrates artistry. Nigerian music has evolved into a worldwide sound that offers depth, intricacy, and staying power. The global audience is not merely listening to Afrobeats—it is enshrining it.
African tracks featured on RollingStone’s compilation of The 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century so far
#22. Essence – Wizkid ft. Tems
#95. Last Last – Burna Boy
#135. Water – Tyla
#228. Woman – Rema
#232. Free Mind – Tems
#243. UNAVAILABLE – Davido ft. Musa Keys pic.twitter.com/vi9km6VjK2— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) October 8, 2025
Comparison with Nigerian Albums on Rolling Stone’s Album List
Nigerian dominance doesn’t stop at singles. In Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Albums of the 21st Century So Far, four Nigerian albums also made the cut:Album Artist Rank African Giant Burna Boy #120 Mr Money With the Vibe Asake #142 For Broken Ears Tems #222 Made in Lagos Wizkid #228
This underscores that Nigerian musicians are not merely producing singles; they are creating complete works that endure.
Broader Implications
This occasion goes beyond awards; it confirms a reality. Nigerian music has moved from emerging to established. Hits such as “Essence” and “Last Last” signal a cultural transformation where Afrobeats is not merely globalized—it is global. It reflects a cohort of artists who have transformed rhythm, resilience, and identity into worldwide masterpieces.
Further recognition, inclusion, and representation remain possible. Yet if this list demonstrates anything, it is that the 21st‑century sound carries a distinctly Nigerian pulse.
The post Nigerian Artists Make Their Mark on Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century appeared first on HypeTribe.
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