What makes a song timeless?
When 2Face Idibia, popularly called 2Baba, released ‘African Queen’ in 2004 under Kennis Music, no one could have imagined it would still be making history two decades later.
In August 2025, Billboard recognized the track “African Queen” the No. 1 Afrobeat song of all time. This recognition shows the legacy of the artist 2Baba and also highlights how far Afrobeat has traveled.
The Rise of “African Queen” By 2Baba in Afrobeats History
Produced by OJB Jezreel, “African Queen” stood out at a time when most Nigerian hits were heavily party-driven.
The song delivered something different:
- Soft, soulful rhythm.
- Lyrics that celebrated African beauty with pride.
- A universality that made listeners around the world feel connected
By 2006, the track had crossed into Hollywood when it was featured in the movie “Phat Girlz,” introducing Afrobeat to a global audience. That early crossover moment paved the way for today’s Billboard-topping stars.
How Fans Reacted to African Queen’s Billboard Afrobeat Recognition
When Billboard crowned 2Baba’s “African Queen” the No.1 Afrobeat song of all time, fans across social media expressed their opinion
@_THE_CRAFT3R_Old but Gold That song has been used in so many movies Baba is a Legend
@LuxzyAtBelton Is it Afrobeats? It was the first African music video to debut on MTV by the way
@AjMachalaa “If you listen to Ojuelegba you’ll know that lyrically Wizkid is a legend. There are few artist I call legends Wizkid is one of them. “Legend” should not be used for artist that have got just one hit record in their entire career.”
“African Queen” Led to 2Baba’s First Marriage
The story of “African Queen” cannot be told without mentioning Annie Macaulay, the actress who featured in its iconic music video.
What started as an appearance soon blossomed into real love. By 2012, 2Face proposed, and in 2013, the couple tied the knot in Dubai. However, like many love stories in the public eye, theirs came with challenges. In 2025, after more than a decade together, 2Face announced their separation.
Not long after, 2Face found love again. In July 2025, he married Natasha Osawaru, a respected lawmaker in the Edo State House of Assembly.
Why “African Queen” Billboard’s Recognition Matter
Billboard’s decision to rank “African Queen” as the No. 1 Afrobeats song of all time is a reminder of what the track represents:
A timeless celebration of African beauty and culture that transcends generations and a testament to the global rise and acceptance of Afrobeat as a major musical genre.
This recognition honors the song’s emotional resonance, cultural significance, and its power to connect people worldwide. As “African Queen” continues to inspire new artists and listeners, its legacy solidifies Afrobeats’ place on the music stage globally.
Other Afrobeat Recognition By Billboard Following “African Queen”
“Ojuelegba” by Wizkid, holds the No. 2 spot. This track was a breakthrough for Wizkid and helped amplify his global music career, leading to collaborations with international artists like Drake and Skepta.
“Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)” by Flavour, ranked at No. 3. This song, which samples classic highlife sounds, has been widely celebrated and remains a significant track in Afrobeats history.
Following this, the list includes:
4. Love Nwantiti – CKay
5. Oliver Twist – D’banj
6. Fall – Davido
7. Ye – Burna Boy
8. Chop My Money – P-Square
9. Fever – Wizkid
10. Skelewu – Davido
Davido and Wizkid were each ranked twice.
