Music News | 8 September 2025 12:34 CET

‎"This Recognition Is Not Just About Me, But The Journey Of Afrobeats" - 2Baba Grateful Over Billboard's Recognition Of 'African Queen' In Afrobeats Top 50 Songs Of All Time

By Oluwarantimi Oludase

Legendary Nigerian singer, Innocent Idibia, has penned an appreciation message following the recognition of his 2004 hit song 'African Queen as the top song in Billboard's Afrobeats songs of all time.

Recall that Billboard released its first-ever ranking, "The 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs of All Time," on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, with artistes like Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid and others securing a spot on the globally recognized list.

Interestingly, 2Baba's 2004 love hit song 'African Queen' was picked as the number one song on the list, wading off competition from other songs.

Expressing his gratitude for the global recognition, 2Baba, via his Instagram page, thanked Billboard for honouring his song as the number 1 song on the list.

He emphasized that this recognition is beyond him, but about the journey of Afrobeats, those who paved the way, and the fans who have kept the genre alive.

He further appreciated everyone for the love and support shown towards him.

He wrote:
"Thank you, @billboard, for honouring “African Queen” as the No. 1 song on the 50 Greatest Afrobeats Songs of All Time list. ▲✨

This recognition is not just about me, it’s about the journey of Afrobeats, the pioneers who paved the way, and the fans who keep the music alive.

Forever grateful for the love and support. This one is for all my fans worldwide.

One love."
Billboard named 2Baba's "African Queen" the #1 Afrobeats song of all time, with other top songs including Wizkid's "Ojuelegba" at #2, Flavour's "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)" at #3, Rema's "Calm Down" at #4, and Wizkid ft. Tems's "Essence" at #5. The list considers cultural impact, commercial success, and regional popularity.

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