The year 2020 was a landmark for Afrobeat, as the genre continued to expand its global reach. With artists delivering compelling stories, unforgettable melodies, and groundbreaking collaborations, Afrobeat solidified its place in global pop culture. The top songs of 2020—Wizkid’s “No Stress,” Burna Boy’s “Wonderful,” Reekado Banks’ “Rora,” Master KG’s “Jerusalema,” and Mr. Eazi’s “Nobody”—represent the vibrancy and diversity of the genre. Here is a closer look at these tracks and their impact.
1. Wizkid – No Stress
“No Stress,” a standout track from Wizkid’s acclaimed album Made in Lagos, exudes the effortless cool and sophistication that define Wizkid’s sound. The song is a laid-back ode to love, intimacy, and living stress-free.
Musical Composition
“No Stress” combines mellow Afrobeat rhythms with a subtle fusion of R&B. The song’s minimalist production features soothing guitar riffs and soft percussion, creating a relaxing ambiance. Wizkid’s smooth vocals and playful lyrics deliver an easygoing yet memorable listening experience.
Cultural Impact
This track resonated deeply with fans navigating the challenges of 2020, offering a moment of calm amid global upheaval. Its themes of self-care and enjoyment made it a favorite for relaxation and introspection.
Global Reception
“No Stress” received widespread acclaim for its maturity and refined sound, further cementing Wizkid’s status as an international Afrobeat icon. The song became a streaming favorite and contributed to the success of Made in Lagos, which garnered global recognition.
2. Burna Boy – Wonderful
“Wonderful” captures Burna Boy’s unique ability to blend Afrobeat with rich cultural storytelling. As the lead single from his Grammy-winning album Twice as Tall, the song is a celebration of African resilience and creativity.
Musical Composition
The track’s production combines traditional African drums with modern Afrobeat elements, creating a vibrant and celebratory sound. Burna Boy’s powerful vocals and energetic delivery bring the song’s message to life, while its catchy chorus ensures widespread appeal.
Cultural Impact
“Wonderful” is a testament to African pride and the continent’s global influence. The song’s themes of unity and celebration resonated with listeners worldwide, especially during a year marked by adversity.
Global Reception
The song was praised for its uplifting message and innovative production. It played a key role in Burna Boy’s continued rise as one of Afrobeat’s leading voices, earning significant airplay and streaming numbers.
3. Reekado Banks – Rora
“Rora” is an irresistible Afrobeat love song that showcases Reekado Banks’s knack for creating sensual and melodic tracks. The song’s fusion of Afrobeat and highlife elements sets it apart as a timeless tune.
Musical Composition
The song features lush instrumentation, including soft guitar melodies and gentle percussion. Reekado Banks’s velvety voice and heartfelt delivery make “Rora” a captivating listen, while the song’s romantic lyrics strike a chord with fans.
Cultural Impact
“Rora” became a favorite for weddings, romantic playlists, and intimate moments. Its universal theme of love and its elegant production made it a standout track in 2020.
Global Reception
The song’s charm transcended borders, earning praise from fans and critics alike. It reinforced Reekado Banks’s reputation as a skilled vocalist and songwriter, solidifying his place in the Afrobeat scene.
4. Master KG – Jerusalema (featuring Nomcebo Zikode)
“Jerusalema” is more than a song; it’s a global phenomenon. South African producer Master KG’s collaboration with vocalist Nomcebo Zikode became a beacon of hope and joy in 2020, uniting people across the world through music and dance.
Musical Composition
The song’s production combines uplifting Afro-house beats with gospel-inspired melodies. Nomcebo’s soulful vocals and the song’s spiritual message create a powerful and emotional experience, while its danceable rhythm makes it universally appealing.
Cultural Impact
“Jerusalema” inspired a viral dance challenge that brought people together during a year of isolation. From healthcare workers to celebrities, millions participated in the challenge, spreading joy and positivity.
Global Reception
The song topped charts in multiple countries and amassed billions of views and streams. It earned numerous accolades and solidified Master KG’s status as a global star, making “Jerusalema” one of the most significant songs of the year.
5. Mr. Eazi – Nobody (featuring DJ Neptune and Joeboy)
“Nobody” is a vibrant and infectious track that highlights the synergy between Mr. Eazi, DJ Neptune, and Joeboy. The song’s playful energy and catchy hook made it an instant favorite.
Musical Composition
The production features bouncy Afrobeat rhythms and a groovy bassline. Mr. Eazi’s laid-back delivery, Joeboy’s smooth vocals, and DJ Neptune’s expert production create a perfect blend of sounds that keep listeners hooked.
Cultural Impact
“Nobody” became a go-to party anthem, providing an escape and a sense of normalcy for fans during a challenging year. Its relatable lyrics and upbeat vibe resonated widely, making it a staple on playlists.
Global Reception
The song’s success extended beyond Africa, earning airplay on international platforms and charting in various countries. It further showcased the collaborative strength of Afrobeat artists and producers
AscentTunes’ top songs of 2020 reflect the resilience, creativity, and global appeal of Afrobeat. Wizkid’s “No Stress” and Burna Boy’s “Wonderful” celebrated the richness of African culture, while Reekado Banks’ “Rora” captured the essence of love. Master KG’s “Jerusalema” united the world with its uplifting message, and Mr. Eazi’s “Nobody” brought joy to countless listeners.
These songs are a testament to the power of music to inspire, connect, and uplift. As Afrobeat continues to evolve, these tracks will remain timeless reminders of its transformative impact in 2020 and beyond.
