When fans attend a Wizkid concert, they don’t just go for the music, they go for the energy, the vibes, and the unforgettable moments. One of those moments, which has become a near-trademark for the Nigerian superstar, is his now-famous water-splashing ritual. Whether it’s a festival stage in Europe or an intimate Lagos crowd, Wizkid often grabs a bottle of water, showers the audience, and sends the crowd into a frenzy.
But why has this small act become such a big deal? Let’s dive in.
A Festival Highlight Turned Signature Move
The “water moment” gained major attention during Oya Festival 2023 in Oslo, Norway. In the middle of his set, performing hits like Fever, Samba, and Joro, Wizkid grabbed a water bottle and playfully sprayed the crowd. Fans screamed, phones flew in the air, and suddenly what seemed like a random act became one of the festival’s most replayed highlights online.
Clips of Wizkid splashing water circulated across Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, with fans hailing it as peak “Big Wiz energy.”
For many fans, it’s not just water; it’s connection. In a concert world often dominated by pyrotechnics, giant screens, and choreographed dancers, Wizkid’s spontaneous gesture feels raw and personal.
Symbol of freedom: Splashing water can be said to capture the carefree, party spirit that Afrobeats represents.
A badge of experience: For fans, being in the splash zone is proof of “I was really there kinda feeling”
Online virality: Short clips of the splash moments trend easily, adding to Wizkid’s festival legacy.
And maybe, just maybe, the water is more than a playful sprinkle—it’s a baptism into the energy of Afrobeats.
Billboard has officially released its list of the 50 greatest Afrobeats songs of all time, highlighting some of the most iconic and groundbreaking tracks that have shaped the genre. Afrobeats, which has its roots in Nigeria and Ghana, has now become a global sound influencing artists worldwide. The list features a mix of legendary classics and recent international smashes that propelled the genre beyond Africa.
Spotlight on the Top 10 Afrobeats Songs of All Time
1. African Queen – 2Face Idibia (2004) This timeless love ballad remains one of the most iconic songs in African music. 2Face’s “African Queen” put Nigerian music on the global map and is celebrated as a masterpiece that helped pave the way for Afrobeats’ worldwide success.
2. Ojuelegba – Wizkid (2014) Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba” tells the story of struggle and triumph, capturing the spirit of Lagos. The remix featuring Drake and Skepta further expanded its global reach, solidifying Wizkid as one of the biggest Afrobeats stars.
3. Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix) – Flavour (2005) Flavour’s highlife-infused anthem became a cultural staple, known for its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics. It cemented Flavour’s place as a household name in African music.
4. Calm Down – Rema (2022) Rema’s “Calm Down” took the world by storm, especially with the Selena Gomez remix. It became one of the most streamed Afrobeats songs globally, highlighting the new wave of Nigerian artists pushing Afrobeats into the mainstream.
5. Essence – Wizkid ft. Tems (2021) Dubbed the “song of the summer,” “Essence” is the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Tems’ soulful delivery and Wizkid’s smooth style created a masterpiece that captured hearts worldwide.
6. Love Nwantiti – CKay (2019)Initially a slow-burn hit, “Love Nwantiti” exploded through TikTok, becoming one of the most remixed and viral Afrobeats songs of all time. It solidified CKay’s place in the global music scene.
7. Oliver Twist – D’banj (2012) A song that marked Afrobeats’ breakthrough into the UK charts, D’banj’s “Oliver Twist” was a game-changer. It proved Afrobeats could thrive on the international stage.
8. Fall – Davido (2017) “Fall” became one of the longest-charting Nigerian pop songs on Billboard. Its fusion of Afrobeats and international pop influences helped Davido gain worldwide recognition.
9. Ye – Burna Boy (2018) “Ye” is widely regarded as Burna Boy’s breakthrough international hit. With its catchy hook and relatable themes, it became an anthem that transcended borders and genres.
10. Chop My Money (Remix) – P-Square ft. Akon (2012) This collaboration between Nigerian duo P-Square and Akon showcased Afrobeats’ crossover appeal. The track gained massive popularity and became a fan favorite across Africa and beyond.
Full Ranking: Positions 11–50 (with Release Dates)
11
Olufunmi
Styl-Plus
2003
12
Gongo Aso
9ice
2008
13
Do Me
P-Square
2007
14
Dami Duro
Davido
2011
15
Johnny
Yemi Alade
2013
16
Fall in Love
D’banj
2008
17
Bumper to Bumper
Wande Coal
2008
18
Adonai
Sarkodie ft. Castro
2014
19
Azonto
Fuse ODG ft. Itz Tiffany
2012
20
Fada Fada
Phyno ft. Olamide
2016
21
Eminado
Tiwa Savage & Don Jazzy
2013
22
Last Last
Burna Boy
2022
23
Bobo
Olamide
2015
24
Drogba (Joanna)
Afro B
2018
25
Pakurumo
Wizkid
2011
26
Skin Tight
Mr Eazi ft. Efya
2015
27
Iskaba
Wande Coal & DJ Tunez
2016
28
Peru
Fireboy DML
2021
29
Sad Girlz Luv Money
Amaarae & Moliy
2020
30
Killin Dem
Burna Boy & Zlatan
2018
31
Rush
Ayra Starr
2022
32
Dorobucci
Mavins
2014
33
Mad Over You
Runtown
2016
34
Personally
P-Square
2013
35
Pana
Tekno
2016
36
Kontrol
Maleek Berry
2016
37
Ku Lo Sa
Oxlade
2022
38
Monalisa
Lojay & Sarz
2021
39
Shake Body
Skales
2014
40
UNAVAILABLE
Davido ft. Musa Keys
2023
41
Peace Be Unto You
Asake
2022
42
People
Libianca
2022
43
Buga
Kizz Daniel & Tekno
2022
44
Oleku
Ice Prince ft. Brymo
2010
45
Yahooze
Olu Maintain
2007
46
Soweto
Victony & Tempoe
2022
47
Raise Da Roof
Jazzman Olofin & Adewale Ayuba
2004
48
Dem Mama
Timaya
2005
49
Tonight
Nonso Amadi
2016
50
Ijoya
Weird MC
Billboard’s list of the 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time is more than a ranking—it’s a history of Afrobeats itself. From 2Face Idibia’s classic African Queen to Rema’s global smash Calm Down, it captures how a genre rooted in African rhythms has become a universal language.
The diversity of the list, spanning pioneers like Weird MC and contemporary stars like Ayra Starr and Asake, proves that Afrobeats is not only here to stay but also destined to keep evolving as one of the world’s dominant genres.
Personally I will make some few changes to this List. Will you? Drop a comment
South African star Tyla is clearly not here for one-dimensional artistry. Just a year after her self-titled debut album and a whirlwind global breakout with “Water,” she’s switching gears again and this time with a tight, bold, and experimental EP titled We Wanna Party, released under FAX and Epic Records.
The 4-track project is short, but far from small. It’s playful, confident, and rhythm-heavy — giving us a version of Tyla that isn’t trying to prove anything, just enjoying her growth in real time. If Tyla the album was her formal debut, We Wanna Party is her pulling up to the function in silk and sunglasses, telling us she’s not only ready to party — she’s hosting it.
The EP in Four Tracks
1. Dynamite ft. Wizkid
This is the moment. “Dynamite” is smooth, slow, and sexy — the kind of track you want to put on repeat during a humid evening. Tyla and Wizkid deliver chemistry without doing too much. The beat doesn’t rush, the lyrics don’t beg, and the vibe is locked in. For fans of laid-back Afropop and effortless energy, this is gold.
2. Mr. Media
This track is Tyla at her cheekiest. She calls out gossip culture, online noise, and the obsession with image — all while sounding unbothered and fabulous. “Mr. Media” is fun and shady in the best way, with production that snaps and bounces like a digital catwalk. It’s a clapback, a wink, and a flex — all wrapped in one.
3. Is It
A more emotional, slowed-down moment. “Is It” has that late-night feel where the party fades and questions start rising. Tyla’s delivery is soft and vulnerable here, and the production gives space for that honesty. She doesn’t just sing — she questions, she hesitates, she wonders out loud. And we feel it.
4. Bliss
Ending the EP on a floaty, reflective note, “Bliss” lives up to its name. It’s dreamy and mellow, like the last scene in a coming-of-age movie. Tyla lets her vocals glide over airy production, giving us a gentle close that lingers after the beat fades. Not flashy — just beautifully calm.
The Sound & Mood
We Wanna Party isn’t trying to follow the same path as her debut album. Where Tyla was sleek and full of world-building, this Mixtape is more vibe-first, more experimental, and definitely less polished.
Why It Works
Tyla has always known how to balance softness with strength, and We Wanna Party proves it again. She’s giving attitude without arrogance. She’s calling out the media, teasing desire, showing some emotional depth — all within four tracks. It’s cohesive without being predictable.
And that Wizkid collab; Honestly, overdue because we all know Tyla is a big fan of Wizkid and has been looking forward to working with him. “Dynamite” feels like a natural meeting of two calm-but-commanding stars. No overproduction, no gimmicks — just quality.
My Rating 8.5/10
It’s short, stylish, and quietly bold — exactly what an artist in her position should be dropping right now. She’s not doing too much, but she’s doing just enough to remind us: the party’s not stopping anytime soon.
Wizkid turns a year older today, and while social media is flooded with tributes and throwbacks, we’re taking a different route. It’s time to rank every Wizkid album;the highs, the lows, and the game-changing moments that have defined his journey from Ojuelegba to the O2.
This isn’t just fan love. It’s a critical deep dive, praising what deserves praise, and calling out what could’ve been better. Because even legends have missteps, and that’s okay.
Note before you Proceed!
This list is based on: – Artistic quality – Cohesion and originality – Cultural impact – Replay value – Growth and boldness
6. Sounds from the Other Side (2017)
Highlight Tracks: “Come Closer” ft. Drake, “Daddy Yo,” “African Bad Gyal”
Wizkid’s “Sounds from the Other Side” was his first major leap into the international market. It had ambition, dancehall, Caribbean-infused pop, and big-name collabs like Drake, Major Lazer, Chris Brown. But the album lacked soul. Yes, it gave him global visibility. But it felt like Wizkid trying to fit into Western radio instead of bending them to his rhythm.
My thought: A strategic move but not a masterpiece. The most forgettable album in his discography.
The follow-up to Made in Lagos was always going to be tough. But “More Love, Less Ego” felt like a beautiful shell with no core. The production was elite, clean, vibe-heavy. But the writing lacked what Wizkid was more about compared to other Albums released by the music Icon. It’s Wizkid at his smoothest, but also his most emotionally distant. The album didn’t push boundaries, nor did it feel like he had much to say. In many ways, it was a continuation of Made in Lagos, just less hungry.
My thought: Sonically pleasing, but too safe. For an artist of his calibre, we wanted more.
4. Ayo (2014)
Highlight Tracks: “Ojuelegba,” “Show You the Money,” “Jaiye Jaiye,” “In My Bed”
Ayo was a comeback and a stamp. Coming after Superstar, this project showed a Wizkid with more control, more polish, and bigger ambition. It had the hits, the hooks, the spiritual storytelling of “Ojuelegba.”
But it was also a bloated album, with too many tracks (19) and some clear fillers. A lot of it felt like a compilation of singles, not a cohesive project.
My thought: Imperfect but pivotal. An album that balanced fame and faith.
3. Superstar (2011)
Highlight Tracks: “Holla at Your Boy,” “Tease Me,” “Don’t Dull,” “Love My Baby”
This is where it all began — Wizkid’s breakout. He was young, hungry, cocky, and vibrating with potential. Superstar wasn’t just an album, it was an era that even the superstar we have today will never forget.
It changed Nigerian pop forever. The swagger. The slang. The sound. From “Pakurumo” to “Oluwa Lo Ni,” this was the soundtrack of a generation.
But let’s be honest; even as good as the album it isn’t his best project. The album hasn’t aged perfectly. Some tracks feel dated, and there’s a juvenile tone that’s natural for a debut.
My thought: A cultural classic. Not his best technically, but you can’t overstate its importance.
This is the album that redefined Wizkid for the world. Made in Lagos was sleek, patient, grown. It wasn’t chasing the charts — it was building a mood. And it worked. Globally. Essence became the first truly global Afrobeats love song, and the album showed a matured artist comfortable in his skin. Still, the album gets criticism for being too chill, not enough tempo variation, little experimentation. But that’s the point. Made in Lagos wasn’t made for the club. It was made for late nights and great moments.
My thought: A timeless piece of mood music. The moment the world took Afrobeats seriously and Wizkid led the charge.
After years of smooth, laid-back vibes, Wizkid finally returns with clarity, heart, and hunger on Morayo; a title that feels personal, almost spiritual.
The project is named after Wizkid’s late mother, Jane Morayo Balogun, who passed away in 2023. Her death left an open wound in the heart of an artist who, until then, had rarely spoken so openly about grief, loss or legacy in his music.
This album is Wizkid at his most honest and intentional since Ojuelegba first release. “Morayo” (the title track) is a reflective, emotionally stirring opener that sets the tone. He’s not just singing; he’s telling stories. About love, Lagos, loss, legacy. There’s an intimacy to the lyrics we haven’t heard from him in years. Sonically, Morayo balances mellow Afrobeats with bolder experiments — it’s smoother than Superstar, deeper than More Love, Less Ego, and less commercially calculated than Sounds from the Other Side.
My thought: Morayo is Wizkid’s most complete and cohesive album. It merges growth with grit, melody with message. After all these years, he still finds new ways to surprise us.
Final Thoughts:
Wizkid has evolved in real-time, from a young Nigerian singer to a global legend. His discography shows the growth, the experiments, the setbacks, and the wins. Whether you miss the energy of Don’t Dull or prefer the silkiness of Essence, one thing is clear: Wizkid is not done yet.
Happy Birthday to the Biggest Bird!
What do you think about this list? Drop your rankings in the comments if you think otherwise.
In 2025, Wizkid: Long Live Lagos made its grand debut at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, marking a special moment in both African music and global storytelling. More than just a documentary, the film is a celebration of Lagos culture, the rise of Afrobeats, and the life of one of Nigeria’s most iconic artists, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid.
A Cinematic Tribute to Wizkid
Directed by Karam Gill and produced alongside Daniel Malikyar, Long Live Lagos is a full-length documentary that takes fans on an emotional and cinematic journey through Wizkid’s life. From his early days in Surulere, Lagos, to the bright lights of international stardom, the film unpacks not only his success but also the spiritual and cultural roots that shaped him. It isn’t just about music; it’s about legacy, identity, and the city that birthed a global movement.
Inside the Film: What to Expect
The documentary offers never-before-seen footage of Wizkid’s life — intimate family moments, studio sessions, and electrifying performances. It’s an unfiltered look at the man behind the music, revealing his vulnerabilities, growth, and deep connection to Lagos.
Featuring appearances and commentary from influential voices such as:
Femi Kuti – Afrobeat legend and cultural icon
Jada Pollock – Wizkid’s longtime manager and partner
Sunday Are – Veteran manager and music executive
Julie Adenuga – British-Nigerian media personality and radio host
These voices help narrate Wizkid’s evolution and the role he’s played in reshaping how African talent and Afrobeat as a whole is seen around the world.
A Landmark Premiere at Tribeca
Long Live Lagos was part of Tribeca Film Festival’s Spotlight+ category — a prestigious slot that included films on Billy Joel and Miley Cyrus. The premiere was powerful, personal, and unforgettable. Wizkid attended with his young daughter, providing an emotional glimpse into his life as a father and artist. During the post-screening Q&A, he admitted the decision to let cameras into his private life was tough. “It wasn’t easy,” he said, “but I want my fans to see the real me.”
The Broader Message: Lagos as a Creative Force
Beyond Wizkid’s personal story, Long Live Lagos is a love letter to the city that raised him. It captures the essence of Lagos. Its hustle, creativity, rhythm and positions it has as a central player in the global entertainment scene. The documentary doesn’t just follow a superstar’s rise; it also talks about how a city gave birth to a sound that changed the world.
Previous Documentaries vs. Long Live Lagos
While Wizkid has appeared in other documentaries before, like Lagos to London (2018), A Day in the Live of Wizkid (2020), and A Superstar Made in Lagos (2021), this is his most complete and personal documentary to date.
Where & When to Watch
Currently, Long Live Lagos is available only through screenings at Tribeca Film Festival (June 4–15, 2025). However, because of its ties to HBO Documentary Films, it is expected to be released on HBO Max or similar streaming platforms soon. Follow Streamdorm on all major social media to get updates on possible HBO announcements, or festival updates for global release dates.
Are you a true Wizkid fan?
For fans, this film is more than a biography. It’s a mirror into Wizkid’s soul, his journey, and the impact he has had on a generation. It’s also a powerful reminder of how far Afrobeats has come and how Lagos remains its beating heart. Wizkid: Long Live Lagos is not just a music documentary, it’s a cultural moment. It blends emotion, history, and the magic of Lagos to tell a story that fans across the world will connect with. Whether you’ve followed him since Superstar or you’re just discovering his music, this film is a must-watch celebration of one of Africa’s big three.
