Global streaming platform Spotify has unveiled its latest rankings of the Top 5 Female Afrobeats Artists of the Last 12 Months, naming Nigerian sensation Ayra Starr as the leading act on the list. Dubbed “the pop star of Afrobeats” by Spotify, Ayra Starr continues her meteoric rise in the global music scene, securing the top position thanks to her consistent streaming numbers, chart-topping hits, and growing international presence. Tems, another Nigerian powerhouse and Grammy Award winner, claimed the second spot, while American-Cameroonian singer Libianca came in third. Malian-French artist Aya Nakamura ranked fourth, and British-Nigerian rapper Darkoo rounded out the top five. Notably absent from the list is South African breakout star Tyla, despite her impressive run over the past year, which included multiple major Afrobeats awards. In addition to the female artist rankings, Spotify also released its list of the Top 5 Afrobeats Artists in Latin America—and Nigerian stars dominated once again. Rema topped the list, followed by Ayra Starr in second place and CKay in third. Heavyweights Burna Boy and Wizkid secured the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. The rankings highlight the continued global influence of Nigerian artists in shaping the sound and reach of Afrobeats across continents.
