Afrobeat

Afrobeat is a vibrant, polyrhythmic genre that originated in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, in the 1960s and 1970s. Characterized by driving horn sections, percussive guitar riffs, and complex time signatures, Afrobeat combines traditional Yoruba music, jazz, and funk elements. The genre's hypnotic rhythms, often in 12/8 time, are punctuated by call-and-response vocal patterns, socially conscious lyrics, and catchy horn melodies. As a cultural force, Afrobeat played a significant role in promoting African identity and social justice, influencing the likes of disco and hip-hop. Its unique blend of local and global influences sets Afrobeat apart from other African genres, such as highlife and fuji, while its emphasis on collective improvisation and rhythmic experimentation distinguishes it from Western funk and soul.

Latest Afrobeat Release
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Minuit
Single - Released May 9, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Wizkid
Burna Boy
Ayra Starr
Tems
Davido
Top Playlists
The Sound of Naija Old School 48 Afrobeat artists
The Sound of Classic Afrobeat 42 Afrobeat artists
The Needle / Ghana 32 Afrobeat artists
The Needle / Uganda 31 Afrobeat artists
The Needle / Cameroon 31 Afrobeat artists
The Needle / Cameroon - Current 26 Afrobeat artists

RecentMusic users are tracking 1301 Afrobeat artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 26,509 releases .

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  1. May 9, 2025
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    Fan
    1 tracks
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    Safari
    1 tracks
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    5ive
    17 tracks
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    Linda
    1 tracks
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