Kenyan Songs Featured in Rolling Stone’s Best Afropop List 2024
In 2022, US-based Rolling Stone magazine, one of the most reputable publications in the world, spotlighted the African music scene by publishing Rolling Stone’s 40 Best Afropop Songs list. This move was part of its commitment to showcase diverse musical genres.
In all fairness, the growth of African music has been remarkable, particularly with the rise of Afrobeats and Amapiano genres.
Our previous write-up defined Afropop as a broad term for various unique, vibrant, and exciting African music genres, i.e. Afrobeats, Amapiano, R&B, Hip-hop/Rap, Gengetone, Drill, etc.
In 2024, 4 Kenyan songs were featured in Rolling Stone’s Best Afropop list, similar to 2023.
33. Nikita Kering’ – Tonight
Kenyan singer Nikita Kering’ had a relatively quiet year. In 2024, she released only three songs: “Let You Down” featuring Kemena, “Doja” featuring LMBSKN, and, of course, the one on the list, “Tonight.”
Before its release, the song generated a lot of hype, but the fan’s reception was lukewarm when it came out. Many felt the artists didn’t put in much effort.
Despite amassing over 1.4 million views, the song could have been better, considering Nikita’s vocal prowess and potential.
26. Watendawili – Cham Thum (Atoti)
The dynamic duo of Ywaja Tajiri and Israel Onyach wrapped up 2024 in style following the release of their debut album, En Route.
Their track “Cham Thum,” released in 2023, continued to gain popularity in 2024.
With the momentum they built throughout the year, Watendawili’s ceiling for growth can only rise. They are set to improve their craft, break barriers, and become a force to reckon with in the coming years.
23. Bridget Blue x Bien – I Choose You
Channeling their mellow, colorful harmonies and blending their seamless vocals, Blue and Bien made music that made us feel like 🌞 sunshine on “I Choose You.”
Producers Hendrick Sam and DJ Edu likely had Bridget Blue in mind when they created the instrumental, as she truly owned it with her vocal prowess.
Bien, who had an outstanding year, was the perfect choice for the collaboration, showing us why he is the most sought-after artist in the industry.
7. Bensoul x Bien – Extra Pressure
“Extra Pressure” placed at number 7 on the list, higher than last year’s top-ranked song, Bien’s “Ma Cherie,” which ranked at number 10. Unsurprisingly, Bien (who appears twice on the list) had a highly successful 2024.
He starred in several features on the back of his solo debut album Alusa, Why Are You Topless? and its deluxe version.
In July, Bensoul released his The Party & The After Party album, which featured “Extra Pressure.” It is worth noting that the song was to be featured on Bien’s album.
“Extra Pressure,” which has garnered over 6.9 million YouTube views, is vibrant and makes you want to hop onto the dance floor and bust a move, which is why it is the top song on the list!
As we start 2025, we believe our artists will continue to put in the shift and release music that will receive recognition beyond our borders. We look forward to seeing more Kenyan songs featured on Rolling Stone’s Afropop list for 2025.
#PlayKE 🇰🇪
Did you enjoy the news about Kenyan Songs Featured in Rolling Stone’s Best Afropop List 2024? Read more Kenyan Music News, Stories & Latest Updates on our stories page.
Stay tuned to Doba KE for more news, music, lyrics, and updates. Remember to follow us on our social media channels.
