👑 The Kings & Queens of Afrobeat: Noneillah’s Ultimate Ranking

 👑 The Kings & Queens of Afrobeat: Noneillah’s Ultimate Ranking

Afrobeats has transformed from a regional sound in West Africa into a global cultural movement. Today, it’s not only shaping the sound of the streets in Lagos but also dominating playlists in New York, London, and beyond.

Leading this wave are three kings — Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido — and three queens — Tems, Ayra Starr, and Tyla. Each artist has carved their own lane, bringing unique flavors of rhythm, lyrics, and vibes to the culture.

Here’s how Noneillah ranks the reigning rulers of Afrobeat.

👑 The Kings of Afrobeat

Burna Boy – The African Giant

“I dey my feelings, I don’t pray make a man stress me.” – Burna Boy, “Last Last”

Burna Boy stands at the top. His blend of Afro-fusion, reggae, and hip hop makes his catalog one of the most versatile in African music. From politically charged anthems to heartbreak bangers, Burna delivers depth and vibes in equal measure.

• Catalog Highlights: African Giant, Twice As Tall (Grammy winner), Last Last

• Why #1? Burna’s consistency, poetic lyricism, and international recognition make him the undisputed king.

Wizkid – The Starboy

Wizkid’s music is smooth, melodic, and addictive. He is a master of creating timeless vibes. His smash “Essence” with Tems became the first African song to reach the Billboard Hot 100 top 10, cementing him as a global force.

• Catalog Highlights: Ojuelegba, Made in Lagos, Essence

• Why #2? Wizkid’s strength is in his melodies and hooks. He may not be as lyrically sharp as Burna, but his music has unmatched staying power.

Davido – The Hitmaker

Davido’s energy is electric, and for years he owned the Afrobeat lane. Hits like “If” and “Fall” put him on the world stage. While Burna and Wizkid now lead the charge, Davido remains a heavyweight in the culture.

• Catalog Highlights: Fall, If, A Good Time

• Why #3? Davido is a certified hitmaker, but his dominance peaked a few years ago, placing him just behind Burna and Wizkid today.

👑 The Queens of Afrobeat

Tems – The Global Voice

“I need to free my mind now, this is the peace that I cannot find.” – Tems, “Free Mind”

Tems has become the soulful queen of Afrobeat. Her smoky voice and introspective lyrics give her music weight and depth. She has crossed into R&B and pop, collaborating with Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, while still staying rooted in Afrobeat.

• Catalog Highlights: Essence (with Wizkid), Free Mind, Wait for U (with Future & Drake)

• Why #1? Tems’ lyricism and emotional depth make her the most impactful Afrobeat queen today.

Ayra Starr – The Celestial Breakthrough

Young, fearless, and vibrant — Ayra Starr is the new generation’s Afrobeat star. Her confident delivery and bold lyrics resonate with youth culture worldwide.

• Catalog Highlights: Rush, Away, 19 & Dangerous

• Why #2? Ayra’s catalog is still growing, but her sharp wordplay and energy mark her as the next global Afrobeat queen.

Tyla – The Amapiano Princess

South African-born Tyla brings a fresh sound by fusing Amapiano with Afrobeat. Her breakout hit “Water” earned her a Grammy and global recognition, but she’s still in the early stages of her career.

• Catalog Highlights: Water, On and On, Tyla (debut album)

• Why #3? Tyla is a superstar in the making, but her catalog is still small compared to Tems and Ayra.

🌍 Final Rankings

Kings of Afrobeat

1. Burna Boy – The African Giant

2. Wizkid – The Starboy

3. Davido – The Hitmaker

Queens of Afrobeat

1. Tems – The Global Voice

2. Ayra Starr – The Celestial Breakthrough

3. Tyla – The Amapiano Princess

 Noneillah’s Take

Afrobeats is thriving because of its balance of kings and queens. Burna Boy and Tems lead their lanes with substance and artistry. Wizkid and Ayra Starr bring vibes and youthful freshness. Davido and Tyla provide the global hits that keep the sound climbing the charts.

Together, these six artists represent the heart and soul of Afrobeat’s global rise. They are not just stars — they are cultural ambassadors, proving that African music isn’t just influencing the world… it’s leading it.