The list, compiled by Spotify, highlights the top 30 Nigerian songs—or songs featuring Nigerian artists—with the highest number of streams outside Nigeria. It serves as both a celebration of Nigeria’s far-reaching musical influence and a snapshot of the evolving landscape of global music consumption.
Rema’s “Baby” Dominates Global Charts
Rema claimed the number one spot with his hit single “Baby (Is It a Crime)”, a track that skillfully samples iconic British-Nigerian soul singer Sade Adu. The song, released as part of the first-anniversary celebration of his genre-blending album HEIS, has not only topped international streaming charts but also reaffirmed Rema’s standing as a true global star.
His continued success signals more than just a fleeting moment—it underscores the potency of Nigerian creativity in shaping contemporary global pop culture.
Gospel Breakthrough: Lawrence Oyor Makes Historic Entry
Amidst a list dominated by Afrobeats, Amapiano fusions, and alté sounds, one track stood out for its genre-defying inclusion. Gospel artist Lawrence Oyor’s song “Favour” became the only gospel entry on the Global Impact List, a rare feat that showcases the universal appeal of spiritually rooted music.
Oyor’s presence is a powerful reminder that Nigerian music is not a monolith—and that global audiences are embracing more than just the mainstream.
Rising Stars on the International Radar
2025 has also proven to be a breakthrough year for a new generation of Nigerian artists. Chella and Minz, both relatively fresh on the scene, earned well-deserved spots on the list. Minz’s track “Number One”, a collaboration with Ivorian breakout star Himra, gained widespread acclaim following Himra’s standout performance at this year’s Les Flammes Award in Paris.
These rising voices demonstrate a shift in global listening habits—where audiences are increasingly drawn to fresh, innovative sounds from Africa’s most musically dynamic nation.
Female Voices Rise with Power and Precision
Nigerian women in music continued to carve out their own lanes internationally. Ayra Starr, one of the brightest stars of the Afropop renaissance, made two entries on the list with “All The Love” and “Gimme Dat.” Meanwhile, Teni made waves with her track “Money,” further asserting the presence and influence of female artists on the global scene.
Their inclusion signals not just popularity, but a growing recognition of the creative contributions of women in shaping the future of Afrobeats and beyond.
The Legends Hold Strong
Despite the buzz around newcomers, industry heavyweights are far from fading. Davido leads all artists on the list with an impressive nine entries, followed closely by Burna Boy, who secured five spots. Their continued relevance affirms their roles as foundational pillars of the Nigerian soundscape, maintaining multigenerational appeal while evolving with the times.
Spotify: A Window to the World
Commenting on the list, Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the breadth of artistry coming from Nigeria:
“This year’s Global Impact List is a testament to the vast range and international appeal of Nigerian music. We’re seeing both seasoned global talents and promising new artists making significant strides. It’s particularly exciting to observe Afrobeats not only dominating but continually evolving, capturing the attention of a global audience. Spotify is proud to be a part of this movement.”
As 2025 continues to unfold, Nigerian music shows no signs of slowing down. With artists like Rema, Ayra Starr, Davido, and a host of emerging talents at the helm, the sound of Nigeria is no longer just crossing borders—it’s shaping the global soundtrack.
Top 30 Most Exported Tracks
| Artist | Song |
|---|---|
| Rema | Baby (Is It a Crime) |
| Shallipopi | Laho |
| Davido, Omah Lay | With You (feat. Omah Lay) |
| Chella | My Darling |
| Burna Boy, Travis Scott | TaTaTa (feat. Travis Scott) |
| Frenna, Shallipopi | ZAAZAA |
| Coldplay, TWICE, Burna Boy, Elyanna, TINI, Little Simz | WE PRAY – TWICE Version |
| Burna Boy | Update |
| Burna Boy, Shallipopi | Laho II |
| Davido | Be There Still |
| Ayra Starr, Wizkid | Gimme Dat (feat. Wizkid) |
| Davido, Victoria Monét | Offa Me (feat. Victoria Monét) |
| Davido, Chris Brown | Titanium (feat. Chris Brown) |
| Rema | Bout U |
| ODUMODUBLVCK, Victony | PITY THIS BOY (with Victony) |
| Ayra Starr | All The Love |
| Lawrence Oyor | Favour |
| Black Sherif, Fireboy DML | So It Goes |
| Asake | WHY LOVE |
| Beéle, Thisizlondon | si mañana me muero |
| Adekunle Gold | Obimo |
| Davido, Tayc, Dadju | Lover Boy (feat. Tayc & Dadju) |
| Davido, Shenseea, 450 | R&B (feat. Shenseea & 450) |
| Burna Boy | Sweet Love |
| Tobias Rahim, Kabusa Oriental Choir | Regntid (feat. Kabusa Oriental Choir) |
| Teni | Money |
| Davido | 10 Kilo |
| Himra, Minz | NUMBER ONE (feat. Minz) |
| Davido, Victony, Musa Keys | Holy Water (feat. Victony & Musa Keys) |
| Davido | Anything |