There was a time when certain Nigerian songs seemed impossible to escape. They played on the radio, at parties, in taxis, on TV and from almost every phone speaker. Years later, some of those once-massive hits are no longer heard as often as they once were.
1. Sean Tizzle – “Sho Lee”
Released in 2013, “Sho Lee” quickly became one of the biggest songs of its time. Its catchy sound and memorable hook made it a favourite at parties and on radio stations, while the success helped establish Sean Tizzle as one of Nigeria’s rising stars.
2. Kcee – “Limpopo”
Kcee’s “Limpopo” was almost impossible to avoid when it became a hit. Released in 2012, the upbeat track dominated parties and radio, while its popular dance routine added to its appeal. The song went on to win Song of the Year at The Headies.
3. Korede Bello – “Godwin”
“Godwin” became one of the defining Nigerian songs of 2015. Korede Bello’s catchy record, with its gospel-inspired message, appealed to a wide audience and quickly became a regular at parties, events and on radio.
4. Harrysong – “Reggae Blues”
Harrysong brought together Olamide, Kcee, Iyanya and Orezi for “Reggae Blues,” creating one of the biggest party songs of 2015. Its infectious hook made it a regular at social gatherings and turned the song into an instant crowd favourite.
5. Tekno – “Pana”
Tekno’s “Pana” was one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2016. The romantic track showcased his smooth vocals and catchy songwriting, becoming a major radio and streaming hit and one of the most recognisable songs of his career.
6. Runtown – “Mad Over You”
When Runtown released “Mad Over You” in 2016, the song quickly spread across Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Its distinctive melody inspired several covers and remixes and made it one of the singer’s biggest records.
7. Oritse Femi – “Double Wahala”
“Double Wahala” became a major hit for Oritse Femi after its release in 2014. The street-pop record was heavily played at parties and events, while its memorable phrase became part of everyday Nigerian slang at the time.
8. Mavins – “Dorobucci”
“Dorobucci” was more than just a hit song; it became a cultural trend. Released by Mavins in 2014, the star-studded collaboration featured Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Dr SID, D’Prince, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello and Di’Ja. The “Doro” craze quickly spread across the country.
9. Ycee – “Juice”
Ycee’s “Juice,” featuring Maleek Berry, became one of the standout songs of 2017. Its smooth production and catchy chorus made it a radio favourite and helped Ycee reach an even wider audience.
10. Iyanya – “Kukere”
Before Afrobeats became a global phenomenon, Iyanya had Nigerians dancing to “Kukere.” Released in 2011, the song became a massive hit, helped largely by its famous Etighi dance. For a period, “Kukere” was everywhere and established Iyanya as one of the biggest pop stars of that era.
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