Global music streaming platform, Spotify, has announced Nigerian music sensations Ayra Starr and Tems as the most streamed Nigerian artistes worldwide.
The announcement was made by Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, during an event in Lagos on Wednesday.
Okumu revealed that Ayra Starr and Tems topped the Spotify music global impact list for 2024, which highlights the top 30 Nigerian artistes who have garnered the highest global streams. “Ayra Starr’s collaboration with Rauw Alexandro on ‘Santa’ came top on the list, while her solo track ‘Comma’ secured the second spot. Tems’ ‘Love Me Jeje’ claimed third place,” Okumu stated.
Other notable entries on the list include “Another Vibe” by Luciano and Omah Lay in fourth place, and “Just Like Me” by 21 Savage, Burna Boy, and Metro Boomin in fifth. Tyla and Tems’ track “No.1” ranked sixth.
“Spotify has unveiled its global impact list in Nigeria, recognizing the top 30 tracks from Nigeria with the biggest global impact on Spotify over the first half of 2024. The list recognizes Nigerian tracks that have had the most listens from outside Nigeria in the first half of 2024 and were released between January 1 and June 30,” Okumu elaborated.
Usher and Pheelz’s “Ruin” was the seventh most streamed, followed by Reis B and Tempoe’s “Pretty Girl” in eighth. “Tshwala Bam” by TitoM, Yuppe, Burna Boy, and S.N.E clinched the ninth position, while Ayra Starr and Giveon’s “Last Heartbreak Song” rounded out the top ten.
Okumu praised the global reach of Nigerian music, particularly Afrobeats, stating, “Nigerian music, especially Afrobeats, has captivated global audiences with its infectious rhythms, compelling storytelling, and innovative sound fusions. 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.”
She highlighted the dominance of female artistes on the list, noting that Ayra Starr and Tems were leading the charge with top-ranking hits from their recent album releases. Okumu also pointed out the prevalence of international collaborations, which feature prominently in the top ten tracks, showcasing the cross-cultural appeal and growing global impact of Nigerian music.
“The list underscores the prevalence of international collaborations, with eight of the top ten tracks featuring partnerships with global superstars. These collaborations range from Pheelz with Usher to Burna Boy with 21 Savage and Metro Boomin,” she concluded.
