Chart-Toppers and Trendsetters: Inside the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart of October 21, 2023

Afrobeats is a genre of music that originated in Africa, characterized by its fusion of various African musical styles, such as highlife, fuji, Afrobeat, and dancehall, with elements of hip hop, R&B, and pop. It has been gaining popularity worldwide, and 

this weeks Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart for October 21, 2023, paints a vivid picture of the genre's current landscape and its global impact.

The Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart is a weekly compilation that provides a systematic assessment of the most favored Afrobeats songs within the United States. This evaluation is grounded in comprehensive data, encompassing streaming figures, sales statistics, and airplay metrics.

Each week, this chart meticulously ranks the top 50 songs that have garnered the greatest resonance among listeners. It was established by Billboard, in association with Afro Nation, on 22 March 2022 as a recognition of the growing demand and appreciation for Afrobeats music in the U.S. market.


The latest edition of the chart, dated October 21, 2023, features some of the hottest and most talented Afrobeats artists from across the continent and beyond. Here are some of the highlights and trends from the chart:

Tyla's Ascent to No. 1, makes history with “Water”

South African singer-songwriter Tyla made history by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart with her song “Water.” Tyla's track "Water" is a captivating fusion of pop, R&B, Afrobeats, and amapiano, expertly produced by Sammy Soso, a Grammy-nominated producer and DJ.

It reflects the growing prominence of South African artists in the Afrobeats genre and the genre's ability to connect with diverse audiences. The track's unique blend of rhythms and catchy lyrics make it an instant hit.

Rema and Selena Gomez’s “Calm Down” drops to No. 2

After spending several weeks at No. 1, Rema and Selena Gomez’s “Calm Down” gracefully dropped to No. 2 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart. The remix features American pop star Selena Gomez, who adds her sweet vocals to the upbeat and energetic Afrobeats track.

The song was a huge success, as it crossed over to mainstream audiences and exposed Rema’s music to a wider fan base. The song also boosted Rema’s profile as one of the leading Afrobeats artists in the world, as he became the first Nigerian artist to top. The song also marked Selena Gomez’s first foray into Afrobeats music, as she expressed her admiration for Rema and his culture.

Amaarae debuts at No. 38 with “Angels in Tibet”

Amaarae is the only Ghanaian-American singer-songwriter to make her debut on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, ranking at No. 38 with her song “Angels in Tibet”. The song is the second track from her newly released album “Fountain Baby”, which was released in June 2023. The song is a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative pop, that showcases Amaarae’s unique style and voice.

Amaarae is one of the most innovative and versatile artists in the Afrobeats scene, as she experiments with different genres and influences. She has been praised by critics and fans for her creativity and originality.

Nigeria dominates the top 10

The top 10 of the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart is dominated by Nigerian artists, who occupy eight out of the 10 spots. Nigeria is widely regarded as the hub of Afrobeats music, as it has produced some of the most influential and successful artists in the genre. Some of the Nigerian artists who made it to the top 10 are:

Burna Boy: The Grammy-winning superstar has three songs in the top 10, more than any other artist on the chart. His songs are “City Boys” (No. 6), “Talibans II” feat. Byron Messia (No. 8), and “Last Last” (No. 9). Burna Boy is known for his fusion of Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, reggae, dancehall, and hip hop, as well as his social and political commentary in his lyrics.

Tems: Another Nigerian artist follows the lead with two entries among the top 10. Her song are “Me & U” (No. 3), and “Free Mind” (No. 5).

Wizkid: The Afro-pop sensation has two songs in the top 10, “Essence” Featuring Justin Bieber & Tems (No. 7). Wizkid is one of the most popular and influential Afrobeats artists in the world, as he has collaborated with international stars such as Beyoncé, and Justin Bieber. He won a Grammy for Best Music Video for his contribution to Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl.”

Ckay: Nigerian singer-songwriter Ckay, who achieved a significant milestone in chart history with his debut No. 1 hit, "Love Nwantiti (Ah Ah Ah)," maintaining its reign for a total of six non-consecutive weeks, currently maintains a strong presence on the chart, holding the 10th position with the same song.

Burna Boy's Multiple Entries

Burna Boy, a prominent figure within the genre, distinguishes himself by securing multiple placements within the top 50 songs listed on the chart. This accomplishment underscores his enduring significance and profound influence on the global music landscape.

Concluding Remarks

The Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart is a reflection of the diversity and dynamism of Afrobeats music, as it features artists from different countries, backgrounds, and styles. It is also a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of Afrobeats music in the U.S. market, as it attracts more listeners and fans. Afrobeats music is not only a genre, but also a culture and a movement, that celebrates the beauty and richness of African music and art.

If you want to keep up with the latest trends and updates on Afrobeats music, make sure to follow the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart every week. You can also stream, buy, and share your favorite Afrobeats songs and artists on various platforms.

And don’t forget to support and appreciate the amazing talent and creativity of Afrobeats artists, who are making history and breaking boundaries with their music.

Article Sources & References:

1. Rema & Selena Gomez, More Top Afrobeats’ First-Year Chart Recap – Billboard
2. Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs – Billboard