in

FULL LIST: Spotify’s 2023 Top Exported Artistes in Sub-Saharan Africa Revealed

Rema, Burna Boy, and Tems topped Spotify’s list of the most exported artists in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) this year.

The streaming platform released data on Wednesday indicating which SSA artists dominated charts outside of their native country in 2023.

“These musical trailblazers are taking traditional sounds and injecting them with contemporary beats, creating an irresistible fusion that’s captivating audiences worldwide,” a statement from Spotify reads in part.

“They aren’t just making waves within Africa; they’re breaking down barriers and teaming up with international superstars. It’s a cross-cultural dialogue that’s transcending borders and sparking a worldwide love affair with African music.

“Spotify Wrapped data for 2023 reveals the undeniable growing influence of African artists across the globe, with African music witnessing a 26% Year-on-Year increase in plays outside the continent.”

Rema was among the artists who ruled the rankings of the most exported artists in Sub-Saharan Africa this year. Thanks to his ‘Calm Down’ collaboration with Selena Gomez, the artist holds the first African-led single to reach a billion Spotify streams. In addition, he is the first Nigerian Afrobeats musician to make Spotify’s top 10 global chart of most-streamed artists in 2023.

Burna Boy was closely followed on the list, while Tems is the most exported female artiste in SSA, ranking third overall.

Ayra Starr, another Nigerian amazing singer, was named the most played female artiste on Spotify in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda in 2023. She was also ranked fourth on the list of the most exported artists in SSA.

In Nigeria, Ghana, and Togo, Asake is the most streamed artist. He is also among the top ten most exported artists from Southern Africa.

See the top 10 below:

  • NG Rema
  • NG Burna Boy
  • NG Tems
  • NG Ayra Starr
  • NG Wizkid
  • NG CKay
  • NG Omah Lay
  • NG Fireboy DML
  • NG Asake
  • NG Davido

Nigerian music, in addition to the artists, is ruling the charts. Nigerian songs account for nine of the top ten most exported records in Sub-Saharan Africa!

Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ and its remix with Selena Gomez are at the top, followed by Ayra Starr’s ‘Rush’ and CKay’s ‘Love Nwantiti (ah ah ah)’, which is still popular even after its 2021 release.

“It’s music that transcends differences and brings people together, moving them to dance, sing, and revel in the shared experience,” said Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s head of music for SSA.

“African music is a force of creativity that’s breaking down barriers and weaving a global tapestry of unity. These artists, with their commitment to authenticity, diversity, and social awareness, are leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.”

In November, Spotify unveiled the 2023 edition of “Wrapped”, its annual recap of listeners’ musical choices.

FULL LIST: ‘Shanty Town’ is Most-Watched Nigerian Film on Netflix Jan-June 2023

I Can’t Date A Man Who Can Cook – Hilda Baci