YouTube Music recently introduced a new feature called Monthly Audience, and it’s already sparking conversation across the music industry. This feature shows the number of unique listeners each artist had within the last month — giving fans and insiders a clearer look at which artists are getting the most attention globally.
Among the top African stars listed, Nigerian hitmaker Rema is leading with an astonishing 307 million unique monthly listeners. His massive success with global tracks like Calm Down and his steady presence on international charts continue to push his music to new heights.
Here’s a full breakdown of the monthly audience numbers for selected African stars on YouTube Music:
Rema — 307 million
Chella — 109 million
CKay — 104 million
Tyla — 63.6 million
Davido — 57.8 million
Burna Boy — 30.9 million
Ayra Starr — 26.9 million
Wizkid — 16.1 million
Omah Lay — 11.5 million
Asake — 9.01 million
These numbers reflect how much listeners are tuning into each artist’s music. Rema’s position at the top isn’t just surprising — it shows how global his fanbase has become. Chella and CKay also rank high, showing they’re reaching large audiences beyond Africa.
Wizkid and Burna Boy, two of Afrobeats’ most recognized names, posted relatively lower numbers, which caught many fans off guard. However, it’s worth noting that their audience might be spread across other platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and Audiomack, which aren’t reflected in this YouTube Music metric.
Asake’s 9 million is also notable, considering his rise in the last two years. With hits that have made waves across Nigeria and parts of the diaspora, he’s proving that consistency and a strong local following can still lead to global recognition.
Why Asake Reportedly Left YBNL: What Entertainment Lawyer Oluyemisi Falaye Revealed
Asake’s rapid rise in the Nigerian music industry took many by surprise, but those who followed his journey closely know that his affiliation with Olamide’s YBNL played a major role in shaping his career. However, recent comments by entertainment lawyer Oluyemisi Falaye have stirred new discussions about the reason behind Asake’s quiet exit from the label.
According to Falaye, Asake signed his contract with YBNL without first reviewing the terms with a lawyer. She claims that the outcome of that decision didn’t favor him in the long run, which may be the reason he chose not to renew his contract when it expired.
Did Asake Make a Costly Mistake?
Signing a record deal is one of the most defining moments in any artist’s career. When Asake joined YBNL in 2022, the buzz was instant. He released multiple chart-topping hits and quickly became one of the biggest stars in Afrobeats. However, contracts in the music business are rarely simple. Artists are often excited to get their big break and may overlook legal advice in the process.
Oluyemisi Falaye’s claim shines a light on a problem many Nigerian artists have faced: signing binding agreements without proper legal review. According to her, Asake might not have received the best deal and chose to walk away when his initial term ended.
Why Artists Need Legal Representation
The music industry runs on contracts — recording, publishing, performance, endorsements, and more. Without legal help, artists risk:
Giving up ownership of their masters Settling for low royalty percentages Being tied to long-term deals with little creative freedom
For someone like Asake, whose fame exploded within a year, a contract that might have seemed acceptable at the start could quickly feel limiting once the money and opportunities start rolling in.
Olamide and YBNL’s Reputation with Artists
Olamide is highly respected for supporting up-and-coming artists. Over the years, he has helped launch the careers of stars like Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, and Asake. However, many of these artists eventually move on from the label. This pattern raises questions about how contracts are structured at YBNL.
Though Olamide is known for being generous, it’s still business. No matter how good the relationship is, contracts protect the interests of both parties. If Asake truly didn’t have a lawyer review the deal, it wouldn’t be surprising if he later felt the terms weren’t suitable anymore.
What This Means for New Artists
Asake’s experience should be a lesson to upcoming artists in Nigeria and beyond. No matter how tempting an offer looks, it’s important to understand what you’re signing. A few hours with a trusted entertainment lawyer can save years of regret.
Also, it’s a reminder that success doesn’t always mean full control. An artist can be topping charts and selling out venues while still being bound by agreements that limit their income and creative decisions.
Afrobeats has become a global phenomenon, but the Nigerian rap culture is one aspect of the genre that is frequently overlooked. Ladipoe’s remarkable line on Asake’s song Active has garnered a lot of attention lately, and rightfully so. His performance highlights the unrealised potential of combining the passionate beats and rhythms of Afrobeats with Nigerian rap.
Ladipoe’s Impact on Afrobeats
Ladipoe has been steadily rising as one of the top rappers in Nigeria. His verse on Active not only impressed listeners but also added a new flavor to Asake’s already vibrant sound. The collaboration sparked conversations about the importance of incorporating more local rap talent into Afrobeats. This type of collaboration gives artists like Ladipoe the chance to shine and demonstrates the powerful chemistry that can exist between the two genres.
Unlike traditional rap collaborations with foreign artists like Travis Scott, who also appeared on the Active remix, Ladipoe’s verse was more in tune with the local culture and sound. He brought his unique flow, wordplay, and a lyrical style that resonated with Nigerian audiences while still appealing to a global crowd. This has led to discussions about how Nigerian rap can elevate Afrobeats further.
The Unique Appeal of Nigerian Rappers
Nigerian rap brings its own flair, blending indigenous languages, street slang, and relatable storytelling. While Afrobeats is often associated with feel-good vibes and energetic dance tracks, Nigerian rap can introduce deeper narratives without losing that energy. Artists like Ladipoe, MI Abaga, and Falz have demonstrated time and again that rap doesn’t have to disrupt Afrobeats—it can complement it in ways that create richer, more dynamic tracks.
Ladipoe’s ability to drop bars that flow seamlessly over Afrobeats rhythms shows how much more room there is for collaborations like this. As more artists and producers start to recognize the potential of these partnerships, it could open up exciting new directions for the genre.
Why More Afrobeats Artists Should Embrace Nigerian Rappers
One reason Afrobeats artists should look more towards Nigerian rappers is the versatility they bring. With the global reach of Afrobeats, there’s a need to constantly innovate and keep the sound fresh. Rappers can bring that edge, offering lyrical depth, new flows, and different angles to what Afrobeats fans are used to hearing.
When Nigerian rappers are included, it gives listeners a fresh take, offering something new without straying too far from the core sound that makes Afrobeats so popular. For example, Burna Boy’s ability to blend Afro-fusion with rap elements has set him apart on the global stage. Following this lead, more Afrobeats acts could benefit from featuring homegrown rappers.
Future Collaborations: What’s Next for Nigerian Rap and Afrobeats?
The success of Ladipoe on Active should be a signal for Afrobeats stars to seek out Nigerian rap talent more often. These collaborations can introduce new audiences to Nigerian rap, while also allowing Afrobeats to evolve and remain relevant.
With rappers like Ladipoe and others proving their ability to flow effortlessly over Afrobeats beats, we might see more projects where these worlds come together. The possibilities are endless: think of what an entire project featuring top Nigerian rappers on Afrobeats production could sound like. It would be a perfect blend of lyrical excellence and infectious rhythms, appealing to fans both locally and abroad.
Afrobeats has grown into a dominant global genre, captivating audiences with its infectious rhythms, vibrant melodies, and unmistakable African essence. In 2024, the genre continues its global takeover, thanks to a series of major international collaborations that brought together Afrobeats stars and artists from around the world. These collaborations aren’t just popular—they’re shaping the future of music, blending cultures and creating chart-topping hits that resonate globally. Here are the top international Afrobeats collaborations of 2024, featuring artists from Nigeria, the U.S., the U.K., and beyond.
1. Sarz ft. Asake & Gunna – Happiness
A powerful collaboration between Nigerian super-producer Sarz, rising Afrobeats star Asake, and American rapper Gunna, Happiness stands out with its feel-good energy. The combination of Afrobeats rhythms with Gunna’s laid-back flow introduces a fresh sound, appealing to fans of both genres. This track’s message of staying positive has made it a favorite on playlists worldwide, blending Afrobeats with hip-hop’s cool vibe.
2. Asake & Travis Scott – Active
Asake has been making waves, and his collaboration with U.S. rapper Travis Scott on Active was one of the most anticipated in 2024.
Known for his energetic style, Asake brought his signature Afrobeats sound while Scott added his signature atmospheric touch. The result is a song that balances trap influences with pulsating Afrobeats beats, making it a crossover hit.
3. Wizkid ft. Brent Faiyaz – Piece of My Heart
Wizkid has a long history of collaborating with international stars, and his latest project featuring American R&B singer Brent Faiyaz has been another major success. Piece of My Heart brings together Wizkid’s signature Afrobeats style and Faiyaz’s smooth R&B vocals, creating a laid-back, soulful track that has resonated with fans worldwide.
4. Phyno ft. ArrDee – Time of My Life
Nigerian rapper Phyno and British rapper ArrDee teamed up to create Time of My Life, an infectious song that merges Phyno’s Afro-rap with ArrDee’s U.K. drill-inspired sound. This collaboration bridges the gap between two distinct rap cultures, showing how Afrobeats can adapt to and fuse with different styles.
Victony, known for his melodic Afrobeats sound, teamed up with American rapper and singer Saint Jhn. Saint Jhn, who has a unique style that blends rap, R&B, and trap, brought a darker, more atmospheric vibe to the collaboration. Victony’s soulful delivery complements Saint Jhn’s raspy voice, creating a perfect balance of Afrobeats and contemporary U.S. trap music. This track highlights how Afrobeats artists like Victony are experimenting with new sounds while maintaining the core elements of their music, such as rhythm and melody.
6.Asake and Central Cee Wave
Another major collaboration that has made waves is the one between Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Asake and British rapper Central Cee. Asake, known for his energetic and unique style, brought his distinct Afrobeats flavor, while Central Cee added his hard-hitting UK drill verses to the mix. The result is a perfect fusion of two dynamic genres: Afrobeats and drill.
Central Cee’s fast-paced flow contrasts with Asake’s laid-back, melodious vocals, yet the synergy between the two works effortlessly. This track has gained significant traction in both Nigeria and the UK, especially among fans of both genres. Asake’s ability to bring his infectious energy to a genre like drill has expanded his fan base, while Central Cee’s participation highlights the growing interest in Afrobeats among British artists.
Why These Collaborations Matter
What makes these collaborations stand out is their ability to bring together different cultures while maintaining the essence of Afrobeats. As the genre continues to gain momentum, more international artists are embracing its infectious rhythms and unique sound, leading to more cross-cultural exchanges in music. These collaborations are not only pushing Afrobeats forward but are also helping redefine the global music landscape.
Nigerian singer Asake has recently found himself in the spotlight, not for his music, but due to a controversial incident involving a fan’s iPhone 16 Pro Max. This situation unfolded after a concert in France, where a fan attempted to take a selfie with the star, only to have their phone reportedly smashed to the ground by Asake. The incident has ignited a wave of reactions across social media, with fans and critics alike weighing in.
The Incident: What Happened?
According to multiple reports, the fan, identified as Zidane Adeoti, approached Asake in a nightclub after the concert. Zidane wanted to capture a quick moment with the singer, but things didn’t go as expected. In a video that has since gone viral, Asake can be seen grabbing the fan’s iPhone before forcefully throwing it to the ground, leaving the phone damaged.
Although Asake has not yet publicly addressed the situation, the fan took to social media to express his disappointment. Despite the damage, Zidane stated that he still loves Asake, showing his dedication to the artist. The viral video sparked widespread debate, with fans divided over whether the singer’s actions were justified or out of line.
Social Media Reactions
The incident quickly became a hot topic online, leading to strong opinions on both sides. Many criticized Asake, questioning his treatment of fans. A significant number of comments reflected on the power dynamics between celebrities and their supporters, with some wondering if the outcome would have been different if the fan had been from a different demographic. A user commented,
“Would Asake have done the same if the fan were white?
It’s hard to say, but it sure raises questions about how stars treat their fans.”
Others were equally disapproving, arguing that Asake’s success should not lead him to mistreat the very people who helped elevate his career. As one commenter pointed out,
“Asake was once a fan too, trying to get pictures with celebrities. It’s sad to see him forget where he came from.”
However, not everyone was quick to blame the artist. Some speculated that the situation may have been more complicated than it appeared in the video, suggesting that there could have been underlying reasons for his reaction. Still, the majority of responses were critical, urging Asake to apologize or make amends for his behavior.
The Fan’s Response
Despite his phone being destroyed, Zidane’s reaction was surprisingly forgiving. He acknowledged that Asake may have been upset for reasons unrelated to their interaction, possibly due to issues at the nightclub. Zidane expressed that, while the incident was unfortunate, his admiration for the artist remains intact. This response has only further fueled discussion, with some applauding his grace while others questioned why he would remain supportive after such an encounter.
Celebrity and Fan Interactions: A Growing Concern
This incident sheds light on the often tricky relationships between celebrities and their fans. While fans are eager to connect with their idols, these interactions don’t always go smoothly. With the increasing demand for access and the pressure on stars to constantly engage, moments of frustration or misunderstanding can escalate.
Moreover, the way stars handle these situations can have lasting effects on their public image. Fans are essential to an artist’s success, and negative interactions can lead to widespread backlash, as seen in this case. As social media continues to amplify such events, celebrities must be mindful of how their actions are perceived, particularly when it comes to their supporters.
What’s Next for Asake?
As of now, Asake has remained silent on the issue, leaving fans to speculate on whether he will address it publicly. While some believe an apology or explanation could help diffuse the situation, others feel the damage has already been done. With his growing fame both locally and internationally, incidents like these could influence how fans and industry insiders perceive him moving forward.
In the world of entertainment, a celebrity’s relationship with their audience is vital. Moments of tension, such as this one, highlight the importance of mutual respect and appreciation between stars and their followers. Whether this will become a lasting blemish on Asake’s reputation or simply a minor hiccup remains to be seen.
Afrobeats has consistently evolved, and one of the most talked-about collaborations of 2024 is the surprise feature of Wizkid on Asake’s track “MMS” from Lungu Boy. This partnership has sent waves through the music industry, solidifying both artists’ positions as leaders in the genre.
Wizkid Instagram photo
The Story Behind the Collaboration
Asake recently revealed that the collaboration wasn’t part of his original plan. In an Instagram Live session, he explained that another artist had been in mind for the song. However, producer P. Prime played the track for Wizkid, and the Afrobeat superstar immediately wanted to be a part of it. This spontaneous decision not only added a fresh dimension to the track but also created a buzz among fans. Asake praised Wizkid’s involvement, highlighting the strong chemistry that quickly developed between them.
Why This Collaboration Stands Out
Wizkid Instagram photo
The success of “MMS” reflects the synergy between two artists with different styles yet a common understanding of Afrobeat rhythms. While Asake is known for his energetic, street-oriented sound, Wizkid brings his smooth, laid-back delivery. This combination has helped the track dominate charts, with many hailing it as one of the standout songs of 2024.
Wizkid’s involvement in Lungu Boyhas also sparked discussions about his relevance in the current music scene. While Wizkid has long been a major figure in Afrobeats, his collaboration with Asake has brought him renewed attention. This partnership serves as a reminder of Wizkid’s ability to stay at the forefront of the industry by working with rising stars like Asake.
Asake Instagram photo
How “MMS” is Shaping the Music Industry
The collaboration is not just a hit—it’s a trendsetter. By merging their strengths, Asake and Wizkid have demonstrated the power of cross-generational partnerships in music. Asake’s innovative approach to Afrobeat, combined with Wizkid’s seasoned expertise, is setting the stage for more exciting collaborations across the industry. Their success together is encouraging other artists to think outside the box and experiment with unexpected pairings.
Beyond the music itself, this collaboration highlights the importance of flexibility in creative processes. Asake’s openness to a new feature on “MMS” speaks to the fluid nature of artistic collaboration in today’s music world, where ideas and input can come from different directions, leading to something extraordinary.
The Impact on Wizkid’s Career
Wizkid Instagram photo
For Wizkid, this collaboration couldn’t have come at a better time. While he has been a consistent force in Afrobeats, the partnership with Asake has reignited interest in his work among younger audiences. His ability to remain relevant and adaptable in a fast-changing industry is further proof of his staying power as one of Nigeria’s biggest music icons. Wizkid’s feature on “MMS” aligns perfectly with his approach to evolving his sound, constantly staying connected to the latest trends and artists.
“Stubborn,” a collaboration between Victony and Asake, has generated significant buzz since its release. Produced by Blaise Beatz and KTIZO, the song is a fusion of Afrobeat and modern hip-hop elements, showcasing both artists’ distinctive styles.
Asake Instagram photo
Review
Victony and Asake’s synergy is palpable throughout “Stubborn.” The track opens with a catchy beat that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Victony’s smooth vocals and lyrical prowess are complemented by Asake’s energetic and unique delivery. The production, handled expertly by Blaise Beatz and KTIZO, features rhythmic drums and vibrant melodies, creating a soundscape that is both engaging and dance-worthy.
Lyrically, “Stubborn” explores themes of resilience and determination. Both artists reflect on their journeys and the challenges they’ve faced, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. The chorus, with its repetitive declaration of being “stubborn,” reinforces the song’s message and adds to its memorability.
Public reaction to “Stubborn” has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have praised the track for its infectious beat and relatable lyrics. On social media, many listeners have shared their appreciation for the collaboration, noting how well Victony and Asake’s styles complement each other. The song’s catchy hook has also made it a favorite for dance challenges and viral videos on platforms like TikTok.
Critics have highlighted the song’s production quality and the chemistry between the two artists. According to JustNaija, “Stubborn” is a standout track that showcases Victony’s versatility and Asake’s dynamic vocal performance Victony – Stubborn Ft Asake MP3 Download – JustNaija.
Similarly, Flexymusic commended the song for its engaging beat and compelling lyrics, calling it a “masterpiece”.
Overall, “Stubborn” is a testament to Victony and Asake’s talents and their ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience. The song’s blend of catchy melodies, strong lyrical content, and top-notch production make it a standout addition to both artists’ discographies.
Rema Asake and Firboy DML are the three big cats in Afrobeat in this new school
In recent years, Afrobeat has ascended to unprecedented heights on the global music stage, thanks to the innovative sounds and electrifying performances of Rema, Asake, and Fireboy DML. These young artists have redefined the genre, bringing African music into the international limelight. Here, we delve into their journeys, achievements, and contributions to Afrobeat, complete with links to their YouTube channels and Instagram pages.
Rema: The Leading Big Cat of Afrobeat
Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, burst onto the music scene in 2019 with his self-titled debut EP. Since then, he has consistently released chart-topping hits and earned accolades that have cemented his status as one of Afrobeat’s leading artists.
Key Achievements:
Breakout Single “Dumebi”: Rema’s breakout single “Dumebi” was a commercial success, amassing millions of streams and introducing him to a global audience.
Guinness World Record: Rema’s hit single “Calm Down” featuring Selena Gomez topped the inaugural Middle Eastern and North Africa (MENA) chart, earning him a spot in the Guinness Book of Records as the first artist to achieve this feat.
Spotify Milestone: “Calm Down” also reached one billion streams on Spotify, making Rema the first African artist-led track to join Spotify’s Billions Club Read more on punch.
Highest Paid African Artist: In 2024, Rema became the highest paid African artist after earning $3 million for his performance at the wedding of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s son.
International Performances: Rema has performed at prestigious events like the Brit Awards, further showcasing his talent on a global stage.
Rema’s unique blend of Afrobeat, trap, and pop has made him a favorite among fans worldwide, and his philanthropic efforts, such as the Rema Care Foundation, highlight his commitment to giving back to his community.
Asake: The Street Pop Big Cat
Ahmed Ololade, known professionally as Asake, has taken the Afrobeat scene by storm with his distinct sound that fuses street pop with traditional Yoruba music. His rise to fame has been marked by a series of hits that resonate deeply with fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Key Achievements:
Hit Singles: Asake’s tracks like “Mr. Money,” “Omo Ope,” and “lonely at the top” have become anthems in the Afrobeat community.
Mr money
Omo ope
Lonely at the top
Album Success: His debut album “Ololade Asake” received critical acclaim and solidified his place as a leading artist in the Afrobeat genre.
Ololade Asake
Collaborations: Asake has collaborated with top artists such as Olamide, which has helped expand his reach and influence.
Asake’s music is characterized by its energetic beats and relatable lyrics, making it a staple at parties and gatherings. His rise from the streets to stardom is an inspiring story of perseverance and talent.
Fireboy DML: The Melodic Big Cat
Adedamola Adefolahan, known as Fireboy DML, has captivated audiences with his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Since his debut, he has been a force to reckon with in the Afrobeat scene, delivering hits that have garnered international acclaim.
Key Achievements:
Debut Album “Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps”: Fireboy’s debut album was a commercial success, featuring hit singles like “Jealous” and “Vibration.”
Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps
Sophomore Album “Apollo”: His second album, “Apollo,” showcased his growth as an artist and included tracks that topped various charts.
International Recognition: Fireboy’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran on the remix of “Peru” brought him further international recognition and chart success.
Awards and Nominations: Fireboy has received numerous awards and nominations, including the Headies Award for Album of the Year.
Fireboy DML’s music is known for its emotional depth and melodic richness, making it a favorite among listeners who appreciate quality songwriting and vocal performance.
Rema, Asake, and Fireboy DML are more than just musicians; they are cultural ambassadors who are taking Afrobeat to new heights. Their achievements reflect not only their individual talents but also the vibrancy and diversity of African music. As they continue to break barriers and reach new milestones, they inspire a new generation of artists and fans alike.
By celebrating their accomplishments and sharing their music, we not only support these artists but also contribute to the global appreciation of Afrobeat. Here’s to the future of Afrobeat, powered by the incredible talents of Rema, Asake, and Fireboy DML.
