A new top 20 chart, dedicated to Afrobeats music has launched in the UK.
The Official UK Afrobeats Chart is a Top 20 rundown of the biggest songs in afropop music, based on streaming data and sales. While defining what constitutes ‘Afrobeats’ is a topic of debate; the launch of the list is a testament to the influence of contemporary music of African origin in the country; and includes artists from various sub-genres that have seen unique success in the UK.
A list of the top artists over the last 12 months was released on Tuesday; and the chart will officially launch with a special event on BBC Radio 1Xtra this Sunday; July 26 with a range of hosts and special guests.
Afrobeats Acts On The Charts
Popular Nigerian acts Wizkid, Rema, Tekno, Naira Marley and more also appear in the male-dominated top 20 list. The French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura is one of the only women to appear on the list.
“For too long, Afrobeats artists have had to work tirelessly to get their voices heard and now; African music/Afrobeats is finally being seen as a leading sound that global superstars turn to on a regular basis,” Kofi ‘Funkz’ Kyei of MOVES Recordings; who was part of the team who created the list told NME.
“The Official UK Afrobeats Chart will help open up the culture to new audiences; giving emerging artists the opportunity to be heard whilst celebrating the sound of a continent that has gone global. Its importance can’t be measured and I look forward to celebrating the biggest and best tracks each and every week!”
BIG news: This week we're launching the first ever Official UK Afrobeats Chart in collaboration with @AfroNation! Full story ⬇️ #AfrobeatsChart https://t.co/WcKUWsKyns
— Official Charts (@officialcharts) July 21, 2020
The rise of the genre has also become apparent through sold out arena shows, recent sound clashes; growing stan culture and much more, but perhaps the official list will makes this success more quantifiable. You can check out the full top 20 list ahead of the official launch via Officialcharts.com.