A decade ago, Afrobeats was on the verge of global recognition. By 2015, the genre had grown beyond its West African roots, fueled by infectious club anthems, high-profile collaborations, and an evolving sound that blended local influences with global trends.
That year proved to be a turning point. Nigerian music saw a surge in commercial success, with artists like Olamide, Burna Boy, Davido, and Wande Coal making major moves.
Collaboration played a crucial role in the genre’s expansion. Remixes like “Woju” featuring Tiwa Savage and Davido resonated across Africa and beyond, while songs like Burna Boy’s “Soke” and Davido’s “Fans Mi” infused trap, dancehall, and pop into the sound. Burna Boy’s sophomore album, On A Spaceship, laid the groundwork for his future global impact, tackling themes of resilience and identity that remain central to his work today.
