- Rolling Stone, a US magazine, curated the top 40 Afropop songs from across the continent based on consumption.
- Kenyan stars prominently featured on the list, including former Sauti Sol vocalist Bien-Aime Alusa Baraza, securing a spot for the second consecutive year.
- Additionally, Wakadinali, Sabi Wu, Octopizzo, Nviiri the Storyteller, and Bensoul also earned places on this prestigious international list.
Kenyan artists Bien, Octopizzo, and Nviiri, the storyteller, secured spots in Rolling Stone’s prestigious Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2023. The renowned American magazine centers on music, politics, and popular culture. The rankings obtain votes from musicians, critics, industry figures, editors, and writers. The magazine highlighted that this year’s rankings, the second annual list of the finest Afropop songs, focused on pieces that authentically represent African sounds and their essence.
Kenyans in Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2023
Several Kenyan musicians showcased their talent on the continent’s top artist list, including Bien, Nviiri the Storyteller, Bensoul, Octopizzo, Wakadinali, and Sabi Wu.
Sabi WU “Mi Na Wewe” Kenya’s Top 40 Afropop Songs at Number 8
Sabi Wu secured the 8th position with the track “Mi Na Wewe,”. Rolling Stone magazine praised Sabi Wu’s “Mi Na Wewe” for its brilliant use of an unexpected sample from the 2003 hit “Ninanoki” by Nameless featuring Amani, iconic figures in Kenya’s Genge genre. The track stands out among the multitude of new East African music releases this year.
Listen to the song here:
Bien’s “Ma Cherrie” among Kenyans in Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2023
This was followed by Bien-Aime Alusa Baraza at the 20th spot with his song “Ma Cherie,” featured on his latest solo album. Expressing his joy, Bien took to Instagram, celebrating the achievement by stating, “Being featured twice on @rollingstone magazine for the top Afro pop songs of 2023 is incredible. A dream come true for me and my team. This year has been filled with blessings. Merry Christmas and Happy 2024.”
The magazine highlighted Bien’s standout performance on “Ma Cherie.” His vocals effortlessly exude charm, offering a fresh take on traditional Lingala sounds within the song’s modern treatment.
Listen to the song here:
Wakadinali “Sikutambui” at number 30
Wakadinali, the popular hip-hop group with Domani Munga, Sewersydaa, and Scar, landed at number 30 with their song “Sikutambui.” The sheng rappers entered the list with their song “Sikutambui,” praised for its bold embrace of Sheng.
“The track’s punchy bass and witty lyrics quickly won over fans, making it a hit on TikTok and a local favorite in Kenya.”
Rolling Stones
Listen to the song here:
Octopizzo “Wapi Compe” among Kenyans in Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2023
Octopizzo, the rapper, took the 31st spot with his track “Wapi Compe.” Rolling Stones explained
“Octopizzo nails the balance between challenging norms in Kenyan rap and hip-hop and reflecting the temperament, desires, and realities of being Kenyan today.”
Rolling Stones
Watch the song by Octopizzo “Wapi Compe” among Kenyans in Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2023
Nviiri The Storyteller, Bien and Bensoul – “Nikilewa”
Finally, as a team, Nviiri, Bien, and Bensoul secured the 35th spot with their track “Nikilewa.” Nviiri confirmed the achievement on his Instagram, stating: “Join me in celebrating another win, top 40 best Afro-pop from 254, I almost said let’s cut off the water, but I’m sure you’re all in…”
Watch the official video here”