YouTube Music has released its list of the 10 most streamed Nigerian songs for the first half of 2026, with Burna Boy's track 'Higher' claiming the top spot. The chart, based on streaming data from January to June 2026, highlights the dominance of Afrobeats artists on the platform.
Burna Boy Leads the Pack
Burna Boy's 'Higher' amassed over 45 million streams in H1 2026, making it the most streamed Nigerian song on YouTube Music. The song, which was released in late 2025, has been a global hit, further cementing Burna Boy's status as a leading figure in Afrobeats.
Rema and Davido Follow Closely
Rema's 'Calm Down' secured the second position with 38 million streams, while Davido's 'Unavailable' came in third with 32 million streams. Both songs have enjoyed international success, with 'Calm Down' becoming a viral sensation on social media platforms.
Wizkid and Tems Make the List
Wizkid's 'Essence' featuring Tems ranked fourth with 28 million streams, and Tems' solo hit 'Free Mind' took the fifth spot with 25 million streams. The inclusion of both artists underscores the collaborative nature of the Nigerian music scene.
Other Notable Entries
The remaining top 10 includes: 6. 'Love Nwantiti' by CKay (22 million), 7. 'Soco' by Wizkid (20 million), 8. 'Ye' by Burna Boy (18 million), 9. 'Fall' by Davido (16 million), and 10. 'Dumebi' by Rema (15 million). These songs have collectively amassed over 250 million streams on YouTube Music in the first half of 2026.
Impact on the Music Industry
According to a YouTube Music spokesperson, 'The H1 2026 chart reflects the growing global appetite for Nigerian music. Afrobeats continues to break barriers and reach new audiences worldwide.' The streaming data also indicates a 30% increase in overall Nigerian music consumption on the platform compared to the same period in 2025.
Conclusion
The top 10 most streamed Nigerian songs on YouTube Music for H1 2026 showcase the genre's vibrant diversity and international appeal. With artists like Burna Boy, Rema, and Davido leading the charge, Nigerian music is poised for even greater success in the second half of the year.
