As 2024 begins to wind down, we’ve now fully entered into a time of reflection on the year that we’ve had. Whether we spent it sipping vodka under chandeliers or sipping garri under fans (no thanks to T-Pain), the end of the year is now in our backyard.
We asked seven Nigerians what Afrobeats song best describes their 2024, and they told us this.
Idris
For me, it’s “Trenches” by Baloranking. The story of the music is the story of my life in 2024. Simply put, do not let your background put you down; just keep grinding, and one day it will happen for you. This was my mood this year.
Another special thing about this song is that Baloranking does not glorify Yahoo boys in it, which is a much-needed breath of fresh air in Afrobeats. It is just a song that anyone with a humble upbringing can relate to. Also, I really love the beat and delivery of the song.
Michael
Mine is “Tony Montana” by Skepta and Portable. It reminds me to keep grinding no matter the hurdles. I also use it to workout. It’s an all-around chill song for me.
I’ve had a unique year. This year, I worked on my own terms and delivered on my own schedule. It was the year I earned more than I’ve ever done. It was also the first year I started becoming unapologetic about myself and who I am. “Tony Montana” in the Scarface movie represents a force that doesn’t care what others think about him and places great emphasis on his self-worth.
Chidinma
“Different Pattern” by Seyi Vibez because my year has been operating on a different pattern FR 😭.
2024 was my “Different Pattern” year. Just like the song by Seyi Vibez, it felt like every step came with its own rhythm—unpredictable, challenging, yet undeniably shaping. It was a year filled with uncertainties that pushed me beyond my comfort zone.
I stretched in ways I didn’t think possible, and somewhere along the line, I stopped making plans and learned to move with the flow. This year taught me to embrace the chaos, trusting that even in the disorder, there’s a melody playing just for me.
Ebere
Mine is “Holiday” by Rema. It just motivates me and keeps me determined, sort of 😂😂😂. Who doesn’t want every day to be a holiday? Yes, that was not the case for me this year, and the song really made me dream. I wanted more holidays and more time to rest. This was even beyond work or boyfriend. I basically needed a break from Nigeria.
Keletoosabi
Fireboy’s “Wait and See” for me. You need to understand that I was in Nigerian Law School this year.
This song was basically me talking to myself, reminding myself that at the end of the day, I was going to pull this whole Law School thing through, and then it would be fine. I needed that. I needed a constant reminder, and I could not look for reminders in people because everybody was going through their own stuff.
Wunmi
The Nigerian song that best describes my year is “Sunshine” by Asake. This year has been a rollercoaster, but through it all, I’ve found moments of light and clarity that kept me going.
The lyrics remind me to trust in the process, stay hopeful, and let my inner sunshine brighten even on the darkest days. It’s been my reminder that no matter how tough life gets, the light always finds a way through.
Lekan
Anendlessocean’s ”Gratitude.” It summarises my career exploits so far this year.
This year, I’ve grown as a digital marketer. I’ve been exposed to world-class knowledge, mentorship, and a network. In all, I’ve really grown as a marketer. I’m grateful for this exposure, skills, promotions, and career growth because what I have experienced is way beyond my career target for the year.
