Long before today, Afrobeats has been dominating global playlists. In the 2000s, dance floors across Nigeria and beyond often enjoyed “African Queen” sung by 2Baba or 2Face, Styl-Plus’s “Olufunmi” among others.
These weren’t just songs, but cultural fuel powering radio stations, street parties, and club nights nationwide.
That era marked a golden age in the evolution of Afrobeats. Its infectious rhythms and unforgettable anthems not only defined the sound of the early 2000s but also propelled a generation of artistes into stardom, shaping a cultural moment that still resonates in today’s Afrobeats renaissance.
In this article, The New Daily Prime revisits iconic tracks that were popular in the 2000s.
“African Queen” – 2Face Idibia (2004)
Released as part of his debut solo album “Face 2 Face”, 2Face Idibia’s “African Queen” remains one of Nigeria’s most cherished love songs. This 2004 Afro-R&B ballad, with its gentle guitar rhythms and emotive lyrics, celebrated the natural beauty, elegance, and grace of the African woman.
The track’s success crossed borders, achieving widespread acclaim across the continent and featuring in the 2006 Hollywood film “Phat Girlz.”
The accompanying video, which starred his ex-wife, Annie Marcauley and Yvonne Jegede, echoed the song’s theme perfectly.
“African Queen” was not just a chart-topper, it cemented 2Face’s legacy as a trailblazer in African contemporary music.
“Fall in Love” – D’Banj (2009)
Under Mo’ Hits Records, D’Banj delivered a romantic anthem with “Fall in Love”, produced by Don Jazzy. The upbeat tune, with its irresistible melody and memorable chorus, “Don’t get it twisted, love is a beautiful thing” struck a chord with audiences nationwide.
Its popularity soared further when actress Genevieve Nnaji featured as the love interest in the video, sparking rumours of an off-screen romance.
The song ruled the airwaves and became a wedding staple, showcasing D’Banj’s smooth charisma and star power.
“Yahooze” – Olu Maintain (2007)
In 2007, Olu Maintain shook the music scene with “Yahooze”, a vibrant celebration of wealth and excess. The catchy hook, flashy lyrics, and the now-iconic “money-spraying” dance move made it a party essential.
The song mirrored a time of bold self-expression among Nigerian youth. Its global appeal even earned Olu Maintain a performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall, proof of “Yahooze”’s reach beyond Nigerian borders.
“You Bad” – Wande Coal ft. D’Banj (2009)
Wande Coal teamed up with D’Banj to release “You Bad”, a dancefloor hit bursting with rhythm and playful lyricism. Produced by Don Jazzy, the song paid tribute to female beauty and confidence, with both artists displaying irresistible chemistry.
With its seductive energy and infectious beat, “You Bad” became a fixture at clubs and house parties, highlighting the creative peak of the Mo’ Hits era.
“Gongo Aso” – 9ice (2008)
When 9ice released “Gongo Aso”, it instantly captivated the nation. Infused with Yoruba proverbs and layered with traditional sounds, the song addressed themes of success, perseverance, and cultural pride.
Even for non-Yoruba speakers, the passion in 9ice’s voice resonated deeply. The title phrase quickly became street slang for major achievements, and the track dominated award shows and celebrations nationwide.
“Ijoya” – Weird MC (2006)
Weird MC broke new ground in 2006 with “Ijoya”, a pulsating track that fused hip-hop with Afrobeat elements. Her message was clear, dance, celebrate, and express yourself.
As one of the few prominent female rappers at the time, her bold, no-nonsense delivery and vibrant stage presence helped the song become a cultural phenomenon, and a timeless dance anthem.
“Olufunmi” – Styl-Plus (2006)
Styl-Plus delivered a romantic masterpiece with “Olufunmi”, a melodic fusion of R&B and Afrobeat that became the soundtrack to countless love stories in the 2000s.
With its soulful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, the song painted a vivid picture of longing and emotional vulnerability. It wasn’t just for lovers, it became a sing-along favourite at parties and nostalgic gatherings.
“Yori Yori” – Bracket (2009)
Bracket’s “Yori Yori” emerged as a sweet love song that touched hearts across generations. Its soft rhythm and affectionate lyrics, with “Yori Yori” translating loosely to “sweetness,” captured the joy of deep emotional connection.
With its warm visuals and universal appeal, the track found its way into weddings, family events, and Valentine’s Day playlists nationwide.
“Skelewu” – Davido (2013)
Davido’s “Skelewu”, produced by Shizzi, became a viral sensation thanks to its signature dance and energetic beat. The song sparked a social media dance challenge and ruled club playlists from Lagos to London.
Shot twice by directors Moe Musa and Sesan due to fan demand, the video campaign demonstrated Davido’s growing ambition to dominate international markets.
“Dorobucci” – Mavin All Stars (2014)
Don Jazzy brought together Mavin Records’ top talents, Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Di’Ja, Dr Sid, D’Prince, and Korede Bello, for “Dorobucci”, a bubbly Afro-pop number that transcended music.
Its catchy “Doro” prefix quickly entered everyday slang, while the track itself became a nationwide obsession, further solidifying Mavin’s dominance in the post-Mo’Hits landscape.
“Personally” – P-Square (2013)
Now defunct P-Square paid tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, with “Personally”, a slick fusion of Afropop and Western pop sensibilities.
The choreography-heavy video featured several nods to MJ’s legendary moves, earning acclaim, including from Jermaine Jackson, who praised the effort in an interview. The song boosted their international standing and showcased their creative versatility.
“Killin Dem” – Burna Boy & Zlatan (2018)
“Killin Dem”, a high-energy collaboration between Burna Boy and Zlatan, became an instant street anthem. Produced by Kel P, the track blended Burna’s laid-back delivery with Zlatan’s Zanku swagger.
It played a key role in popularising the Zanku dance and served as a flagship single in Burna Boy’s “African Giant” campaign, reinforcing his street credibility.
“Aye” – Davido (2014)
Davido surprised fans with “Aye”, a stripped-back love song with a powerful message: genuine affection transcends materialism. Produced by T-Spize, the song portrayed a lovestruck farmer in its video, a dramatic shift from Davido’s usual flamboyance.
The heartfelt track won Best Pop Single at The Headies 2014 and remains one of his most meaningful releases.
“Azonto” – Wizkid (2012)
Although Azonto originated in Ghana, Wizkid helped bring it to Nigerian audiences with this electrifying track. Produced by Legendury Beatz, it fused dancehall energy with Afrobeat flavour.
Directed by Moe Musa, the video was packed with vibrant dance routines, helping to mainstream Azonto across West Africa and beyond.
“Only Me” – 2Face Idibia (2010)
“Only Me” saw 2Face in a reflective mood, questioning selfishness and exploring the theme of human interdependence. Produced by J. Sleek, the song stood out for its poignant message and philosophical depth.
It won Best R&B/Pop Album at The Headies and remains one of 2Face’s most powerful and introspective works.
“Limpopo” – Kcee (2012)
Kcee’s “Limpopo”, produced by Del B, was a vibrant, feel-good track with playful lyrics and an addictive chorus.
Its catchy rhythm made it a continental hit, earning Song of the Year at The Headies 2013 and propelling Kcee into household-name status.
“Godwin” – Korede Bello (2015)
Korede Bello’s breakout hit “Godwin”, produced by Don Jazzy, struck a perfect balance between gospel and pop. Its inspirational message, “I don get alert, Godwin!” became a cultural catchphrase and motivational mantra.
The song transcended genre boundaries, echoing through churches, clubs, and weddings alike, and solidified Korede’s position in mainstream Nigerian music.
“Kukere” – Iyanya (2011)
Produced by D’Tunes, “Kukere” was a sultry, energetic anthem that sparked the Etighi dance phenomenon. The song’s explosive success catapulted Iyanya to stardom and earned him Artist of the Year at The Headies 2013.
Its rhythmic pulse and flirtatious vibe made it a staple at parties and international Afrobeats showcases.
“Bobo” – Olamide (2015)
“Bobo”, produced by Young Jonn, was a street hit that fused witty lyricism with the viral Shakiti Bobo dance. Olamide’s clever use of slang and relatable themes ensured widespread appeal.
It dominated Nigerian airwaves for over a year and became an anthem for celebration, ambition, and self-belief.
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