Imagine a world where music transcends borders, uniting cultures and sparking global conversations. That's exactly what happened when Rolling Stone, the iconic American magazine, dropped its list of the 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far. But here's where it gets controversial: Nigerian artists didn’t just make the list—they dominated it, proving Afrobeat’s undeniable impact on the global music scene. And this is the part most people miss: the rankings have ignited a fiery debate among fans, with some questioning who truly deserves the top spot.
The list, a diverse mix of genres from around the world, shines a spotlight on African talent. Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tems, Davido, and Rema all earned their place, showcasing Nigeria’s musical prowess. Wizkid and Tems’ collaboration, Essence, landed at number 22, while Burna Boy’s Last Last secured number 95. Davido’s Unavailable (featuring Musa Keys) came in at number 243, and Rema’s Woman at number 228. Tems, a standout star, appeared twice—her solo track Free Mind ranked number 232. South Africa’s Tyla also made waves with Water at number 135, proving Africa’s musical influence is unstoppable.
International heavyweights like Beyoncé (Crazy in Love at number 3), Taylor Swift (All Too Well at number 5), and Robyn (Dancing on My Own at number 6) rounded out the list, alongside legends like Frank Ocean and Kendrick Lamar. But the real drama? Fans are divided. Some argue Wizkid’s ranking solidifies his status as a global icon, while others claim Davido’s placement feels like an afterthought. One fan even quipped, “Them sneak unavailable enter the list,” sparking laughter and debate.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Rema’s rising star has fans wondering if he’s poised to join the ranks of Afrobeat’s “Big Three” (Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido). Comments like “Numbers don’t lie, biggest what?” and “Sheybi now everybody know their level” highlight the passionate discussions. Meanwhile, Daniel Regha’s critique of Wizkid’s recent release added fuel to the fire, with fans defending their favorites.
But let’s pause and ask: Is Rolling Stone’s list a fair representation of the century’s best music, or does it favor certain genres and regions? Some fans, like @jorgealavezg, dismissed it as “a joke now,” while others celebrated their favorites’ achievements. What’s undeniable is that this list has sparked a global conversation about music, culture, and artistry.
So, here’s the question for you: Who do you think deserves the top spot? And is Afrobeat’s rise on the global stage just beginning, or is it already here to stay? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this debate alive!
