Year in Review: The popular songs that got Nigerians partying throughout 2023

It's time to take a look back at the well-known Nigerian songs that have dominated the radio and won the hearts of music fans both domestically and abroad as 2023 draws to a close.

From afrobeats to hip-hop, Nigerian musicians have produced hit after hit securing their place among the world's most influential performers.

1. Essence - Wizkid ft Tems

The Wizkid and Tems song "Essence" is one of the best of 2023. This addictive tune and soft vocals made this afrobeat anthem a regular on radio and streaming platforms, garnering it great acclaim.

A viral dance challenge also contributed to the song's success, solidifying its standing as a cultural phenomenon.

2. GoodSin (Olivetheboy)

Olivetheboy's "GoodSin" captured listeners' attention with its tasteful fusion of modern R&B and afrobeat.

With the help of the song's reflective lyrics and easygoing groove, Olivetheboy has become a rising star in 2023 and in the years to come.

Olivetheboy had the opportunity to lso perform at the live eviction episode of the well-known reality show Big Brother Naija All Stars as a result of the song's great popularity.

3. Who’s Your Guy Remix – (Spyro ft Tiwa Savage)

The remix of "Who's Your Guy" by Spyro featuring Afrobeats diva Tiwa Savage went viral and gave the original song a brand-new, dynamic feel.

Tiwa Savage's enticing vocals were expertly combined with Spyro's unique flair in this collaboration, creating a reworked rendition that received considerable praise. The song was given new life by the remix, which captivated listeners with its enticing blend of afrobeats and afropop components.

4.City Boys (Burna Boy)

With the release of the very addictive album City Boys, Nigerian afrobeat singer Burna Boy elevated his fan base. Soon after its release, the song received a tonne of views on the internet.

The song, according to Burna Boy, is the tenth soundtrack cut from his most recent album, I Told Them, which included fifteen thrilling tracks.

The song honours the hard work and prosperity of city dwellers.

5. Shaparlly (Young Jonn)

Young Jonn, popularly known as "The Wicked Producer," proved his abilities once more with the release of "Sharpally." This upbeat song is a mainstay on dance floors and playlists alike because it has an addictive rhythm that is hard to ignore.

With its throbbing beats and memorable hooks, "Sharpally" shot to fame demonstrating Young Jonn's talent for writing songs that electrify listeners of afrobeat and other genres.

6. Ojapiano Kcee

Kingsley Chinweike Okonkwo better known as Kcee made a remarkable comeback with his single titled "Ojapiano."

While he may be remembered for his hit song "Limpopo," "Ojapiano" blends the unique spiritual flute called "Oja" with the Amapiano genre.

The song highlights the perception of the Igbo people as wealthy and business-minded. Kcee's catchy hooks made the track more memorable and enjoyable.

7. Unavailable

Davido's "Unavailable" stands out as one of the most viral songs of 2023, marking a major comeback for the superstar who went on a hiatus for months following the tragic demise of his son Ifeanyi in 2022.

Collaborating with South African artiste Musa Keys, Davido delivers a groovy tune that amplifies the Amapiano genre.

The song not only became an anthem but also inspired a viral dance challenge embraced by platforms like TikTok and also had celebrities hopping on it.

With an impressive 36 million streams on Spotify and 29 million views on YouTube, "Unavailable" solidifies Davido's continued presence in the music scene.

8. Lonely At The Top (Asake)

Asake's "Lonely at the Top" has emerged as a standout track, garnering widespread acclaim for its introspective lyrics and hypnotic melody.

The song delves into the complexities of success and the isolation that can accompany it, striking a chord with listeners who relate to its poignant message.

With its soulful vocals and evocative production, "Lonely at the Top" solidified Asake's position as a rising star in the Nigerian music scene.

9. Annabella (Khaid)

Khaid's "Annabella" made waves in 2023 with its infectious melody and captivating vocals.

The song effortlessly blends elements of Afropop and R&B, creating a sonic experience that is both vibrant and soulful. "Annabella" has resonated with audiences, earning Khaid recognition as a promising talent in the Nigerian music scene.

10. Calm down remix (Rema ft Selena Gomez)

Talented Nigerian artiste and Mavin Records signee, Divine Ikubor better known as Rema returned to the music scene with a remix of his top selling single “Calm Down.”

Furthermore, Selena Gomez, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, was featured in this fantastic remix version.

Rema created a sound that is similar to a breath of fresh air by fusing the rapid tempo and aggression of musical with the percussion and electronic vibes of Electronic Dance Entertainment.

Calm Down reached number one on both the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs and the Billboard Global Excl. US charts, and peaked at number three on the Global 200 chart. It also peaked at number eight on the US Billboard Hot 100, marking Rema's first top-ten hit.

These songs only scratch the surface of the colorful tapestry of Nigerian music, highlighting the inventiveness, originality, and skill that continue to shape the nation's music scene.

These songs among others demonstrate the continued impact of Nigerian music on a worldwide level as they echo through the airwaves and digital platforms.

With their catchy rhythms and captivating stories, these songs have definitely made a lasting impression on 2023's music scene.

GA