Introduction
2024 was a monumental year for African music, with artists across the continent delivering groundbreaking projects and unforgettable moments. From Wizkid’s highly-anticipated album to Tyla’s historic Grammy win, the African music scene continued to shine on the global stage. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), Sub-Saharan Africa recorded the fastest revenue growth globally, surpassing 20% growth—a testament to the region’s thriving music industry.
While mainstream artists dominated headlines, many under-the-radar gems emerged, showcasing the diversity and innovation of West African music. Here’s a look at some of the best songs from 2024 that you might have missed, each redefining what African music can be.
Himra – “BANGER” (Côte d’Ivoire)
Côte d’Ivoire’s music scene has long been dominated by coupé décalé, but 2024 saw the rise of Ivorian drill, led by fast-rising artist Himra. His 25-track album, JEUNE & RICHE, was a standout project, and “BANGER” became an anthem for self-belief and resilience. With sharp lyrics and a hard-hitting beat, Himra solidified his place as the king of Ivorian drill.
Yinka Bernie & Mick Jenkins – “Streets” (Nigeria)
Yinka Bernie, known for his production work on hits like Amaarae’s “Sad Girlz Luv Money,” proved he’s also a force as an artist. His 2024 EP, What Happens After, featured the standout track “Streets,” a collaboration with American rapper Mick Jenkins. With its laid-back vibe and smooth production, the song pays homage to the early days of contemporary Nigerian music while pushing boundaries.
Sonia Sousa – “Dam” (Cape Verde)
Cape Verdean singer Sonia Sousa made waves with her debut project, featuring the soulful single “Dam.” The track is a heartfelt exploration of love, longing, and heartbreak, showcasing Sousa’s raw vocal talent and emotional depth.
Rigo Kamp – “Morning Sun” (Nigeria)
Rigo Kamp burst onto the scene with his debut project, Summer/Morning Sun, blending 80s funk with modern soul. The Odunsi (The Engine)-produced “Morning Sun” is a standout track, earning Kamp a spot as one of Apple Music’s Up Next artists and marking him as one to watch in 2025.
Baaba J & Seyyoh – “Runaway” (Ghana)
Dubbed the “Ghanaian Tracy Chapman,” Baaba J teamed up with Seyyoh for the introspective track “Runaway.” Featured on her EP, In Pursuit of Happiness, the song explores themes of freedom and self-discovery, drawing comparisons to Chapman’s iconic “Fast Car.”
Tay Iwar & Le Mav – “Rock Steady” (Nigeria)
Tay Iwar and Le Mav continued their streak of timeless collaborations with Gold II, a project blending amapiano, Afrobeats, and R&B. “Rock Steady” is a standout track, offering a captivating fusion of danceable rhythms and soulful melodies.
anaiis & Grupo Cosmo – “Honeydew” (Senegal/France)
French-Senegalese singer anaiis joined forces with Brazilian trio Grupo Cosmo for a soulful exploration of motherhood and self-reflection. “Honeydew,” described as the heart of their joint project, is a tender and breezy track that highlights anaiis’s soft vocal delivery.
Psycho YP & Azanti – “Naija Funk” (Nigeria)
Psycho YP and Azanti pushed boundaries with “Naija Funk,” a track that blends Brazilian baile funk with Afropop. Featured on their joint project, YP & Azanti, Vol. 2, the song is a dynamic and unexpected fusion of genres, showcasing their innovative approach to music.
Pa Salieu & Disclosure – “King Steps” (Gambia/UK)
British-Gambian rapper Pa Salieu teamed up with electronic duo Disclosure for the heavy-hitting single “King Steps.” The track, which closes out his album Afrikan Alien, puts a fresh spin on UK garage music, proving Salieu’s versatility as an artist.
SGaWD – “Dump All Your Worries on the Dance Floor” (Nigeria)
Nigerian rap sensation SGaWD brought the heat with “Dump All Your Worries on the Dance Floor,” a pulsating deep house track from her EP, The Gawd EP. With confident lyrics and infectious production, the song is a bold declaration of self-assurance and creativity.
Conclusion
2024 was a year of innovation and growth for West African music, with artists pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. These tracks, though underrated, represent the richness and diversity of the region’s music scene. As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that West African artists will continue to redefine the global soundscape.
