Top 10 Most Streamed Female Nigerian Albums on Spotify
Afrobeats is no longer just a genre; it’s a global movement, and Nigerian women are leading the charge. With the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify, artists such as Ayra Starr, Tems, Qing Madi, Fave, and Tiwa Savage are rewriting the narrative of African music, topping charts and setting records.
On May 18, 2025, a viral post by txt_mag on X revealed the top 10 most-streamed Nigerian female albums on Spotify, highlighting just how far these powerhouse artists have come. Leading the list is Ayra Starr’s The Year I Turned 21, which recently surpassed 1 billion streams—a historic milestone that cements her status as a global Afrobeats icon.
In this in-depth feature, we explore each album on the list, spotlight the artists behind them, and examine the cultural and stylistic shifts they represent. From genre-defining sounds to trendsetting fashion, this is more than a ranking—it’s a celebration of how female Nigerian artists are shaping the future of global music.
Afrobeats on the World Stage: A Sound That Knows No Borders
Born in West Africa and refined in Lagos, Afrobeats has exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. According to Spotify’s 2023 stats, the genre experienced a jaw-dropping 500% surge in streams between 2017 and 2023, with over 15 billion global streams.
What started as a local sound has gone international, thanks to the creativity and consistency of artists like Ruger, Bloody Civilian, Sarz, and Shallipopi—but it’s the women who are now taking center stage.
The txt_mag post, shared on X, spotlights these trailblazing women who aren’t just dominating streams but also redefining what it means to be a global superstar.
The Top 10 Most Streamed Female Nigerian Albums on Spotify
Let’s break down the list and highlight what makes each album special:
- Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21 (1B streams)
A record-breaking project, this 2024 release is packed with hits like “Commas” and “Rhythm & Blues.” Ayra’s genre-blending sound and viral visuals have pushed her into the international limelight, with even Rihanna taking notice. - Ayra Starr – 19 & Dangerous (Deluxe) (661M streams)
This reissue added viral gems like “Rush,” which earned Ayra global chart placements and a Grammy nomination. It’s a defining moment in her career—and in Afrobeats history. - Tems – For Broken Ears (631M streams)
The EP that launched Tems into the spotlight. Songs like “Damages” and “Free Mind” introduced her alternative style and unmistakable voice to a global audience. - Tems – Born in the Wild (500M streams)
Her 2024 full-length album showcases her evolution with emotional lyrics and genre-crossing tracks like “Love Me JeJe,” gaining praise from critics and fans alike. - Ayra Starr – 19 & Dangerous (157M streams)
The original version still resonates with fans. “Bloody Samaritan” became a youth anthem, showing Ayra’s flair for mixing Afropop with lyrical confidence. - Tems – If Orange Was a Place (331M streams)
A bold and experimental EP from 2021, featuring “Crazy Tings,” this project cemented Tems’ place as a genre-pushing innovator. - Fave – Riddim 5 (106M streams)
A viral hit on TikTok and beyond, “Baby Riddim” helped introduce Fave’s smooth style to the world. The EP’s catchy melodies made her an instant favorite. - Qing Madi – Qing Madi (Deluxe) (106M streams)
With soulful vocals and relatable lyrics, Qing Madi’s deluxe album deepened her connection with fans. “See Finish” was the breakout that started it all. - Tiwa Savage – Celia (96M streams)
The queen herself, Tiwa Savage, proves her lasting power with hits like “Koroba” and “Temptation” featuring Sam Smith, blending Afrobeat and pop seamlessly. - Qing Madi – Qing Madi (92M streams)
The debut that introduced Qing Madi’s signature sound—mixing R&B, Afrobeats, and honest songwriting.
Meet the Icons: Ayra Starr, Tems, Fave, Qing Madi, and Tiwa Savage
Ayra Starr is redefining Afrobeats for Gen Z. Since her debut, she’s become not only a chart-topper but also a style icon. From her fashion-forward music videos to her historic Spotify numbers, she represents a new wave of young Nigerian talent making waves globally.
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Tems, with her soul-infused approach to Afrobeats, brings depth and authenticity. Her collaborations with artists like Wizkid (on “Essence”) and her Grammy win have elevated her to legendary status.
Fave, Qing Madi, and Tiwa Savage each bring something different to the table—from emotional ballads to bold anthems, they represent the range and richness of Nigeria’s female voices.
Style Meets Sound: The Fashion of Afrobeats
Music and fashion go hand in hand in the Afrobeats world. The txt_mag post featured images of a fashion-forward Nigerian artist rocking vibrant looks, highlighting how style is a key part of the genre’s global appeal.
Artists often collaborate with top stylists like Swazzi and Tee Dosunmu, curating bold visuals that reflect both cultural pride and personal identity. Ayra Starr, in particular, has been a standout, with her edgy, expressive wardrobe gaining international attention in music videos and on red carpets.
Beyond the Music: The Cultural Impact of Nigeria’s Female Artists
This list isn’t just about streams, it’s about legacy. Women like Ayra Starr and Tems are breaking barriers, shifting cultural norms, and opening doors for the next generation of African artists.
Their music explores love, resilience, and empowerment, and the world is listening.
Spotify’s initiatives, like Afrobeats: Journey of a Billion Streams, reinforce the platform’s commitment to showcasing African talent and growing the global presence of Afrobeats music.
The Future Is Female, and It’s Afrobeats
The rise of these 10 albums signals a cultural shift. As Afrobeats continues to dominate global playlists, female Nigerian artists are taking their rightful place at the forefront. With powerful storytelling, innovative visuals, and massive streaming numbers, they’re shaping what the future of music and African representation looks like.