Ayra Starr Leads Nigerian Artists with 2024’s Biggest Global Hit

Spotify has unveiled its 2024 Global Impact List, with Nigerian star Ayra Starr leading the rankings. The Grammy nominee tops the list with 30 Nigerian songs resonating with global audiences, underscoring Afrobeats’ international dominance and the power of cultural fusion.

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Her top placement is driven by her feature on Rvssian’s hit Santa, which also appears on her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21.

The list honors 30 Nigerian songs that have made the strongest impact on global audiences this year, showcasing the country’s expanding influence on the international music scene.

It also highlights the role of cross-continental collaborations in elevating Nigerian music, featuring tracks with global icons like Usher, Coldplay, and Chris Brown alongside Nigerian stars.

This reinforces that these partnerships are not just a passing trend but a powerful strategy for Nigerian artists aiming for global recognition.

While three of these collaborations feature fellow Nigerian artists, 19 involve partnerships with artists from other countries, highlighting how cross-continental collaborations drive global recognition.

Top hits like ‘Santa’, ‘WE PRAY (TINI VERSION)’, and ‘Another Vibe’ illustrate this collaborative power.

Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, notes, “Nigerian artists are breaking boundaries and the world is listening. Nigerian music has always been rich and diverse, and at Spotify, we’re proud to amplify these talents globally.”

These songs reflect the ongoing rise of Nigerian superstars, who have propelled Afrobeats’ global popularity through chart-topping hits, standout collaborations, and electrifying performances.

NAN/Oluchi