Five albums from 2024 we loved

Which matches your vibe?

Music has a way of defining our moments, and 2024 has been a phenomenal year for fans of Afrobeats and Nigerian music, delivering unforgettable albums that reflect joy, resilience, and cultural pride. From Ayra Starr’s youthful reflections to Wizkid’s soulful tribute to his late mother, this year has been packed with unforgettable albums that perfectly capture joy, introspection, and pure vibes. Whether you’re looking for songs to dance to, lyrics that resonate with your soul, or beats that transport you to another world, there’s an album here for every mood. Which matches your vibe?

1. Heis by Rema

On Heis, Rema seamlessly blends classic Afrobeats with Amapiano. The intro track March Am sets a party-ready tone with kinetic synths and addictive hooks, while Azaman delivers the perfect soundtrack for a carefree weekend. HeHeHe serves Rema’s playful lyricism, and Yayo exudes confidence, stirring images of late-night dancefloors. Another standout is Benin Boys, a nod to his roots, followed by Ozeba’s irresistible catchy flow. Blistering from start to finish, Heis—released in July 2024—cements Rema’s status as a forward-thinking hitmaker unafraid to infuse cultural references into modern pop beats.

2. The Year I Turned 21 by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr’s journey from breakout star to seasoned artiste takes a leap forward in The Year I Turned 21. The project reflects her coming-of-age story through inventive production, heartfelt lyricism, and a rich emotional palette. Highlight tracks include Commas, the standout Rhythm & Blue, and Goodbye (Warm Up)—a lively collaboration with Asake. Released in May 2024, the album immerses listeners in personal tales of self-discovery, friendships, and resilience. Overall, it’s a breezy, reflective album brimming with uplifting energy that shows Ayra Starr’s rapid artistic growth.

READ ALSO: Nigerian songs that shaped 2024 …and set the tone for 2025

3. Adedamola by Fireboy DML

With Adedamola, Fireboy DML takes us on a journey through time, channelling nostalgia and optimism in equal measure, crafting a project that beckons listeners to both reflect and dance. From its opening hit track Iseoluwa, which sets a contemplative tone, to Back n Forth featuring legendary Lagbaja, the album melds Fireboy’s signature sultry melodies with Afro-pop beats. Released in August 2024, Adedamola showcases Fireboy’s ability to blend soulful lyricism with energetic instrumentals, making it a project that resonates on both emotional and physical levels.

4. Lungu Boy by Asake

by Asake

Asake pushes boundaries once again with Lungu Boy, a genre-defying album released in August 2024 that blends Fuji-techno, neo-fuji, and Afropiano. The opening track Mr Money Sound (MMS) stirs nostalgia with its spiritual undercurrent before transitioning into spirited anthems like Active, featuring American rapper Travis Scott. Each composition combines heavy basslines, percussion-driven hooks, and Asake’s arresting voice, culminating in an energetic swirl of movement and melody. Fuji Vibe pays homage to Yoruba musical greats like Pasuma Wonder, reinforcing Asake’s knack for bridging the past and future.

5. Morayo by Wizkid

Wizkid delivers an emotional masterstroke with Morayo, dedicated to the memory of his late mother. Released in November 2024, the album spans a sonic spectrum, weaving together old-school Wizkid influences—reminiscent of his early Superstar era—with contemporary Afrobeats stylings. From the celebratory groove of Kese (Dance) to the introspective undertones of Troubled Mind, Morayo proves Wizkid’s versatility. Standout track Pray feels like a natural extension of his early hits, while the opening sequence features a solemn Fuji sample recorded at his mother’s burial.