Introduction
African music had an extraordinary year in 2025, breaking records and reaching new heights across streaming platforms worldwide. The most streamed African songs of 2025 show how African artists are building lasting legacies that resonate with millions of listeners around the world.
2025 marked a turning point for African music on digital platforms. According to Spotify’s Wrapped 2025 data, listeners grew by 23% globally, while local music consumption in Nigeria alone increased by 82% over the past year. This growth shows a broader trend where African artists are claiming their space in the global music industry with authenticity and innovation.
Burna Boy ended the year as the most-streamed African artist on Spotify globally, racking up nearly 2 billion streams. This achievement represents the biggest streaming year ever recorded by an African act on the platform. Wizkid followed closely with 1.947 billion streams, while new voices like Fido, Kunmie, Faceless, and FOLA broke through with chart-topping hits.
Top Streamed Songs That Defined 2025
1. “With You” – Davido featuring Omah Lay
The collaboration between Afrobeats artists Davido and Omah Lay became the most-streamed song in Nigeria and one of the year’s biggest African hits globally. Released as part of Davido’s fifth studio album “5ive“, the track showcases emotional vulnerability with flawless vocals and solid production.
The song gained international recognition and was nominated for Best African Music Performance at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Its success on streaming platforms was complimented by viral moments on social media.
2. “Isaka (6am)” – Ciza featuring Jazzworx & Thukuthela
South African artist Ciza’s breakthrough hit “Isaka (6am)” became the most streamed song on Spotify South Africa with over 39 million streams. The track blends Amapiano with 3-step and Afro-house influences.
The song’s success extended beyond South Africa, topping charts across multiple African countries and reaching #13 on the Global Shazam Chart. It also made waves internationally, charting in the Netherlands, UAE, UK, Canada, US, and Australia.
3. “Laho” – Shallipopi
Shallipopi’s “Laho” transformed from a Nigerian street anthem into a global sensation. The track, which tallied 62.1 million on-demand streams featured catchy lyrics and upbeat production that gained significant momentum on TikTok and other streaming platforms.
The song’s empowering message, with bars like “Minister of enjoyment/Intercontinental/Monumental/We go live forever,” struck listeners.
Much of the song is performed in Edo Language, Shallipopi’s local language, reflecting a cultural shift where artists celebrate their heritage while achieving mainstream success.
4. “Joy Is Coming” – Fido
Fido’s “Joy Is Coming” rose as one of 2025’s most uplifting anthems. The track captured an air of positivity that resonated throughout the year, tallying 87.2 million on demand streams and 1.56 billion radio airplay impressions in Nigeria. It started the year as the biggest hit in the country and maintained its momentum throughout.
5. “Arike” – Kunmie
Kunmie’s “Arike” became one of the year’s most endearing heartthrob anthems. The song spent five consecutive weeks at #1 on Nigeria’s Official Top 100 chart and tallied 63.96 million on-demand streams. Its romantic appeal and melodic production made it Nigeria’sa standout track from one of 2025’s breakout artists.
6. “Venus” – Faceless featuring Serotonin
“Venus” by Faceless and Serotonin became a cultural phenomenon, dominating TikTok with viral dances, lip-syncs, and online buzz. The track showcased why Serotonin is considered one of most exciting new artists to watch, with its infectious melody and contemporary Afrobeats production.
7. “Baby (Is it a Crime)” – Rema
Rema continued his international dominance with this melodic Afrobeats hit. “Baby (Is it a Crime)” topped several international streaming charts, further cementing Rema’s status as one of Africa’s largest musical exports. The song showcases Rema’s versatility and his ability to craft unforgettable tunes that transcend genres.
8. “Kese (Dance)” – Wizkid
Released in late November 2024, “Kese (Dance)” became Wizkid’s most successful single in Nigeria since streaming tracking began in 2020. The track’s infectious rhythm and Wizkid’s signature smooth delivery kept it in heavy rotation throughout 2025.
9. “Funds” – Davido featuring ODUMODUBLVCK & Chike
Another massive hit from Davido, “Funds” debuted at #1 on Nigeria’s official singles chart and spent three weeks at the top. The collaboration totaled 51.95 million on-demand streams and 1.089 billion in radio reach. The high-energy track demonstrated Davido’s continued dominance in the Afrobeats scene.
10. “SHAOLIN” – Seyi Vibez
Seyi Vibez’s “SHAOLIN” became one of the artist’s biggest hits of 2025 with 51.3 million streams. The song stormed the charts upon release, debuting at #1 on Nigeria’s Official Top 100 and logging two weeks at the summit. Seyi Vibez added three new #1 entries on the singles chart in 2025, more than any other artist in the country.
The Business of African Music
The streaming success of African music in 2025 translated into significant financial gains for artists. With Spotify’s streamshare system and growing international listenership, African artists saw increased royalties and opportunities for international tours.
Burna Boy’s touring strategy proved particularly effective. His recent tour promoting “I Told Them” grossed $30.5 million across 22 shows, selling over 300,000 tickets. The live performances drove listeners back to his catalog, creating a cycle that rewards artists with depth and consistency.
The future looks bright for African music with streaming platforms improving across the continent, more artists gaining international recognition, and global audiences increasingly embracing different sounds. The stage is set for even greater achievements in the years to come.
Even afrogospel music is making waves, check out The 3 afrogospel songs of 2025
Which of these songs made it to your 2025 playlist? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know which African artists you’re excited to hear from in 2026!