Nigerian rapper Emeka Akumefule, better known as Blaqbonez, recently shared his list of what he considers the greatest Afrobeats songs of all time. In a candid conversation on the ‘Lagos’ podcast, Blaqbonez named 2Face Idibia’s iconic track “African Queen” as the greatest Afrobeats song of all time. He also highlighted other legendary tracks like Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba,” Burna Boy’s “Ye,” Davido’s “If,” and M.I’s “Safe,” which he feels represent the pinnacle of the genre.
While Blaqbonez’s list is undoubtedly a reflection of his personal taste, it notably excludes several global hits that have played a major role in elevating Afrobeats to international recognition. For instance, D’banj’s “Oliver Twist,” Wizkid and Tems’ “Essence,” South African singer Tyla’s “Water,” CKay’s “Love Nwantiti,” and Rema’s “Calm Down” all helped broaden the genre’s reach beyond Africa, yet these tracks didn’t make the cut on his list.
Blaqbonez, who is known for his unapologetic and bold personality, is also a key figure in the modern Afrobeats and Nigerian rap scene. His unique blend of catchy lyrics and raw energy has earned him the nickname “The Best Rapper in Africa” by many of his fans. Over the years, he has made waves with hits like “Bling” and “Sex Over Love,” which reflect his evolution as an artist. Blaqbonez’s perspective on Afrobeats speaks not just to his appreciation for its legacy, but also to his own place within the genre’s ever-growing global influence.
