The music of this era reflected a fundamental change in the "emotional core" of Afrobeats:
Average track tempos dropped from a frantic 119 BPM in 2015 to a more rhythmic, contemplative 114 BPM by the mid-2020s. The music of this era reflected a fundamental
– Regularly updated with the latest hits and classic 2021-2022 anthems. Already a powerhouse, his 2022 track "Calm Down"
Known for his distinct "pirate" persona and melodic dancehall-inflected style, his 2022 hit "Girlfriend" dominated video mixes. Data shows a sharp rise in "whiny" or
Already a powerhouse, his 2022 track "Calm Down" became a global cultural phenomenon, eventually becoming the first track by an African artist to surpass 1 billion Spotify streams.
The breakout star of 2022, he pioneered a high-tempo fusion of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Fuji. Major hits included "Sungba" (and its Burna Boy remix), "Pazzo," and "Bandana" with Fireboy DML .
Data shows a sharp rise in "whiny" or emotionally charged vocals, which now account for a significant portion of streams as artists lean into vulnerability. Top 2022 Video Mixes & Playlists