Top 10 Best Afrobeats Albums Released In 2023

Entertainment•Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 19:47pm

In 2023, Afrobeat experienced significant milestones, reaching new heights on its journey toward global prominence. Enthusiasts of the genre were treated to a plethora of albums from influential artists and key figures instrumental in propelling Afrobeat onto the international stage. Notable releases include Davido's iconic Timeless and MoBhad's memorable Blessed. This compilation features the top 10 Afrobeats albums of 2023, showcasing the diverse talent and creativity that contributed to the genre's continued success. The year marked a pivotal moment for Afrobeat, solidifying its position as a powerful force in the global music scene. The albums mentioned not only captivated the genre's aficionados but also played a crucial role in further establishing Afrobeat as a vibrant and influential musical movement.

Top 10 Best Afrobeats Albums Released in 2023

Rave and Roses Ultra – Rema
Work of Art – Asake
Boy Alone Deluxe – Omah Lay
Timeless – Davido
I Told Them… – Burna Boy
Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come – Seyi Vibes
Emeka Must Shine – Blaq Bonez
EZIOKWU – Odumodu Blvck
Trench to Triumph – Crayon

1. Rave and Roses Ultra – Rema

Securing its position at the pinnacle of Afrobeats albums released in 2023, Rema's Rave and Roses Ultra marked a dominant presence on both international and local fronts. Unleashed on April 28, 2023, as the deluxe iteration of the earlier Rave Roses (2022), the album featured the chart-topping sensation Calm Down with Selena Gomez, an enduring presence on the Billboard Hot 100 for over a year.

Alongside this global hit, the album boasted noteworthy tracks such as Soundgasm, Charm, and Reason You. Not only did it make waves in countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, Belgium, and Canada, but it also attained Gold or higher certifications in Poland, France, and Canada. The international and local triumph of Rave and Roses Ultra solidified Rema's dominance in the music industry, earning it the coveted top spot among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023. The album's resounding success attests to Rema's impact, underscoring his ability to captivate audiences on a global scale.

2. Work of Art – Asake

Asake's 'Work of Art' stands out as one of the premier Afrobeat albums of 2023, marking his second studio release. Unveiled on June 16, 2023, under the YBNL Nation and Empire Distribution labels, the album showcased Asake's musical prowess. Prior to its launch, the singles Yoga and 2:30 served as enticing glimpses into the artistic journey ahead.

Comprising 14 tracks, the album featured a noteworthy collaboration with Olamide on Amapiano. Tracks like Lonely at the Top and the aforementioned Amapiano resonated strongly within Nigeria, dominating the airwaves. Internationally, 'Work of Art' made a notable debut on the Official Music Charts of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. Asake's ability to captivate audiences both locally and abroad with this album further solidifies his status in the Afrobeat scene. 'Work of Art' stands as a testament to Asake's artistic evolution and contributes significantly to the vibrant landscape of Afrobeat music in 2023.

3. Boy Alone Deluxe – Omah Lay

Omah Lay's Boy Alone Deluxe emerges as a standout among the premier Afrobeats albums of 2023, serving as the deluxe edition of his debut album. Released on June 15, 2023, under the KeyQaad Record label, this version includes six additional tracks, enhancing the musical journey originally presented.

Featuring hit tracks like Soso, Reason, Understand, I am Mess, and Attention, the album commanded airwaves both in Nigeria and internationally. The album's debut on the official music charts in France, Netherlands, and Switzerland underscored its global impact. Furthermore, three songs from the album received certifications in Canada, attesting to the widespread recognition of Omah Lay's musical prowess. Boy Alone Deluxe showcases Omah Lay's ability to resonate with audiences on a global scale, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the dynamic landscape of Afrobeat music.

4. Timeless – Davido

Davido, a multi-award-winning superstar, staged a remarkable return with his fourth studio album, Timeless. Released on March 31, 2023, under Davido Music Worldwide, Columbia Records, and Sony Music Entertainment, the album left an indelible mark by charting in over seven countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Featuring 17 tracks, Timeless boasted collaborations with notable artists such as Skepta, Angelique Kidjo, Asake, Focalistic, and The Cavemen. International hits like Feel, Kante, Champion Sound, and Unavailable resonated across global audiences. The album's acclaim reached new heights as it earned a nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best Global Music Album.

Undoubtedly, Timeless stands as Davido's most triumphant album, making it a pinnacle release among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023. The combination of critical acclaim, international chart success, and a Grammy nomination solidifies its status as a defining moment in Davido's illustrious career.

5. I Told Them… – Burna Boy

Burna Boy's I Told Them… emerges as a standout among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023, marking his seventh studio release. Launched on August 25, 2023, under Atlantic, Spaceship Records, and Bad Habit, the album featured an impressive lineup of guest artists, including 21 Savage, Dave, Seyi Vibez, J. Cole, GZA RZA, and Byron Messia.

Achieving chart success in over 12 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, I Told Them… solidified Burna Boy's global influence. The album's international hits like City Boys and Cheat on Me featuring Dave, along with Taliban II with Byron Messia, resonated globally. This success translated into four nominations for Burna Boy at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, further highlighting the album's critical acclaim and impact on the international music scene. I Told Them… stands as a testament to Burna Boy's artistry and cements its place among the top Afrobeats releases of 2023.

6. Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come – Seyi Vibes

Seyi Vibes' Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come takes center stage as one of the standout albums released in 2023. This street-pop singer's third studio album, unveiled on June 8, 2023, through Vibez Inc and Dvpper Music, features guest appearances from notable artists including Young Jonn, Jibrille, Russ, and Focalistic.

Making a powerful debut at number one on Nigeria's TurnTable official album chart, the album showcased Seyi Vibes' musical prowess. Hit tracks like Hat-trick, Amdallah, and Dejavu not only dominated local airwaves but also secured notable positions on charts, with Hat-trick debuting at number two on TurnTable Nigeria's official Top 100 songs chart. Vibe Till Thy Kingdom Come stands as a testament to Seyi Vibes' ability to captivate audiences, earning its place among the best albums of 2023 and contributing to the vibrant landscape of Nigerian street-pop music.

7. Emeka Must Shine – Blaq Bonez

Blaq Bonez's Emeka Must Shine stands out as his third studio album and one of the premier Afrobeats releases of 2023. Unveiled on October 27, 2023, through Chocolate City Music, the album comprised 14 tracks and boasted guest appearances from Odumodu Blvck, Young John, Ludacris, Victony, and others.

Receiving critical acclaim, Emeka Must Shine made a significant impact on streaming platforms and charts. The album's hit tracks, including Like Ice Spice, Bezoz, Nyem Ego featuring Jeriq, Dollerz featuring Odumodu Blvck, and No Sleep $$$ featuring Young John, not only dominated the airwaves but also secured prominent positions on charts in Nigeria. Blaq Bonez's adeptness in blending creativity and collaboration shines through in this album, earning it a well-deserved spot among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023.

8. EZIOKWU – Odumodu Blvck

Odumodu Blvck's EZIOKWU takes center stage as the fifth mixtape album by the Nigerian rapper. Released on October 6, 2023, by NATIVE Records and Def Jam, in collaboration with UMG through The Native Networks, the album features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Amaarae, Blaqbonez, Wale, Bloody Civilian, Fireboy DML, Reeplay, Teezee, PsychoYP, Bella Shmurda, Cruel Santino, ECko Miles, and Zlatan.

Making a powerful debut at number 1 on Nigeria's Top 50 Albums, EZIOKWU showcased its impact with 8,130 equivalent album units and 12.2 million on-demand streaming activities in the week from October 6 to October 12. The album's hit songs, including Declan Rice, DOG EAT DOG II, BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR, and more, contributed to its chart-topping success and further solidified Odumodu Blvck's presence in the rap scene. EZIOKWU stands as a testament to the rapper's artistry and holds a prominent place among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023.

9. Trench to Triumph – Crayon

Crayon's debut album, Trench to Triumph, secures the ninth spot among the top Afrobeats albums of 2023. Released on July 21, 2023, through Mavin Global Holdings and Blow Time Entertainment, the album comprises 13 tracks and features collaborations with artists like Ayra Starr, Victony, Maggixx, Oxlade, and others.

True to its acclaim, Trench to Triumph includes hit songs such as Ijo Laba Laba, Ngozi with Ayra Starr, and The One (Chop Life) with the Yaba Buluku Boyz. These tracks not only captivated audiences in Nigeria but also left an imprint on the international airwaves. Crayon's ability to blend diverse talents and create memorable tunes positions Trench to Triumph as a noteworthy addition to the vibrant landscape of Afrobeats in 2023.

10. Blessed – MoBhad

Marking Mohbad's inaugural EP following his departure from Marlian Records World, Blessed was released in June 2023 under his label, Imolenization. The eight-track, 20-minute EP featured collaborations with Nigerian artists Zlatan and Bella Shmurda, securing its place among the best Afrobeats albums of 2023.

This EP reached new heights, charting at number one on Apple Music in Nigeria, gaining additional prominence after the artist's unfortunate passing. Blessed includes hit tracks such as Ask About Me, Beast & Peace, and Feel Good, which not only dominated local airwaves but also claimed top positions on streaming platform charts. Notably, on September 18, 2023, Blessed achieved a new peak, securing the fourth position on the Nigerian Official Top 50 Albums chart. Mohbad's posthumous success with this EP serves as a testament to the enduring impact of his music in the Afrobeats scene.

In conclusion, the Afrobeats landscape of 2023 witnessed an eclectic array of musical brilliance, with each highlighted album contributing to the genre's global prominence. From Rema's chart-topping Rave and Roses Ultra to Davido's triumphant Timeless, and the diverse sounds of Seyi Vibes, Blaq Bonez, Odumodu Blvck, and others, these albums showcased the genre's versatility and international appeal. The success of these releases, evident in chart positions, critical acclaim, and Grammy nominations, attests to the thriving creativity within the Afrobeats sphere. Collectively, these albums not only defined 2023 but also underscored the genre's enduring impact on the global music stage.

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Author: Hannahclare!

I was born in Port Novo in the Republic of Benin and raised in Imeko, Ogun State, Nigeria. I love my hometown so much reason you can't go to any of my pages without seeing the trances of Imeko. I am on the mission of taking that town to the world.