The year 2021 witnessed Afrobeat artists solidifying their presence on the global stage with groundbreaking releases, powerful collaborations, and genre-defining hits. AscentTunes’ top songs of the year—Fireboy DML & Ed Sheeran’s “Peru (Remix),” BNXN’s “Feeling,” Gyakie’s “Forever,” Wally Seek’s “Natural Love,” and Seyi Vibez’s “Catalyst”—highlighted the diversity and creativity of Afrobeat’s leading voices. Let’s explore these tracks, their unique qualities, and their impact on music and culture in 2021.
1. Fireboy DML & Ed Sheeran – Peru (Remix)
The remix of “Peru” by Fireboy DML, featuring British pop superstar Ed Sheeran, was a monumental collaboration that brought Afrobeat to a wider global audience. This track elevated Fireboy’s career while underscoring the genre’s increasing international appeal.
Musical Composition
“Peru (Remix)” retains the original’s catchy Afrobeat rhythm, with its lush guitar melodies and vibrant percussion. Ed Sheeran’s verse introduces a Western pop flair, blending seamlessly with Fireboy’s smooth delivery. The synergy between their voices adds depth to the song, making it a hit across diverse audiences.
Cultural Impact
The track’s success highlighted the global appeal of Afrobeat, as Ed Sheeran’s involvement attracted new listeners to the genre. It became a cultural phenomenon, sparking social media challenges and dance trends worldwide.
Global Reception
“Peru (Remix)” dominated charts globally, including Billboard and UK Official Charts, while amassing millions of streams. It cemented Fireboy’s reputation as an international star and showcased the limitless potential of Afrobeat collaborations.
2. BNXN – Feeling (featuring Ladipoe)
“Feeling” by BNXN (formerly known as Buju) and rapper Ladipoe was an anthem of positivity and resilience, resonating with audiences navigating the challenges of 2021. The song’s uplifting vibe and catchy hook made it an instant classic.
Musical Composition
“Feeling” blends Ladipoe’s introspective rap verses with BNXN’s soulful vocals. The production features a laid-back beat with soft piano melodies and a groovy bassline, creating a mellow yet engaging listening experience. The song’s relatable lyrics further enhance its appeal.
Cultural Impact
This track became an anthem of self-expression and triumph over adversity. Its relatable themes of mental health and perseverance resonated with fans across all age groups, earning it widespread acclaim.
Global Reception
“Feeling” topped charts in Nigeria and gained significant traction on streaming platforms worldwide. It solidified BNXN’s position as one of Afrobeat’s brightest stars and demonstrated the genre’s capacity for storytelling and emotional depth.
3. Gyakie – Forever
Gyakie’s “Forever” captured hearts with its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics, establishing the Ghanaian artist as a leading voice in Afrobeat. The track’s romantic themes and relatable narrative struck a chord with listeners globally.
Musical Composition
“Forever” features a minimalist production style, with soft guitar strings and gentle percussion that allow Gyakie’s emotive vocals to shine. The song’s warm and intimate vibe makes it a standout track for romantic moments.
Cultural Impact
The track became a favorite for lovers and romantics, with its lyrics celebrating devotion and love. It sparked covers and renditions on social media, further cementing its cultural significance.
Global Reception
“Forever” gained widespread recognition across Africa and beyond, topping charts and earning Gyakie international acclaim. The song’s universal appeal showcased the potential for African artists to dominate global music scenes.
4. Wally Seek – Natural Love
“Natural Love” by emerging artist Wally Seek brought a fresh perspective to Afrobeat with its unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. The track’s themes of authentic love and self-discovery resonated deeply with fans.
Musical Composition
The song’s production combines traditional African instruments with modern Afrobeat rhythms, creating a rich and textured soundscape. Wally Seek’s expressive vocals and poetic lyrics add depth and authenticity to the track.
Cultural Impact
“Natural Love” became a favorite among Afrobeat enthusiasts, standing out for its originality and heartfelt message. Its celebration of self-love and genuine connections struck a chord with listeners seeking authenticity in music.
Global Reception
While “Natural Love” didn’t dominate mainstream charts, it gained a dedicated following and highlighted the rising talent of Wally Seek. The track’s success emphasized the evolving landscape of Afrobeat, where fresh voices are making significant waves.
5. Seyi Vibez – Catalyst
“Catalyst” by Seyi Vibez showcased the artist’s unique ability to blend street-inspired Afrobeat with soulful storytelling. The track’s themes of ambition and resilience made it an anthem for dreamers and hustlers.
Musical Composition
“Catalyst” features a dynamic beat with a blend of Afrobeat and fuji elements. Seyi Vibez’s emotive delivery and heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of striving for greatness against all odds. The song’s catchy hook ensures its replay value.
Cultural Impact
The track resonated with fans navigating personal and professional challenges, offering motivation and hope. Its raw and honest storytelling connected deeply with listeners from diverse backgrounds.
Global Reception
“Catalyst” gained traction on streaming platforms and in local communities, solidifying Seyi Vibez’s reputation as a rising star in Afrobeat. Its success underscored the power of authentic narratives in music.
The AscentTunes 2021 top songs represent the richness and diversity of Afrobeat. From Fireboy DML & Ed Sheeran’s global hit “Peru (Remix)” to Seyi Vibez’s heartfelt “Catalyst,” these tracks highlight the genre’s evolution and its ability to connect with audiences worldwide. BNXN’s “Feeling” inspired resilience, Gyakie’s “Forever” celebrated love, and Wally Seek’s “Natural Love” offered a fresh perspective on Afrobeat’s storytelling potential.
As Afrobeat continues to thrive, these songs will remain timeless classics, celebrating the creativity, passion, and unity that define the genre. The future of Afrobeat is undoubtedly bright, and 2021 will be remembered as a year that propelled it to even greater heights.
