- The audience reception to creative works can sometimes be unassuming and complex
- This also happens in the Nigerian music industry where some albums that one expects will get more recognition often don’t get that much attention
- TheRadar curated a list of Afrobeats albums that deserved more flowers for their quality and artistry
Crafting a creative work of art is one journey, while how the audience receives and perceives it is an entirely different path.
Often, some of the most extraordinary creations remain unacknowledged and overlooked, despite their brilliance.
The nuanced interplay between an artiste’s vision and the audience’s appreciation can be complex and unpredictable. It also shows that true artistry extends beyond recognition.
In Afrobeats and Nigerian music, countless albums are released yearly. While some get all the buzz and recognition, some fall under the radar.
See this piece as a justice call for Afrobeats albums that deserved more flowers than they got. It's a long list from Victony’s Stubborn to Phyno’s Full Time Job, but TheRadar curated its Top 7 below.
7 underrated Afrobeats albums
- Full-Time Job — Phyno — 2024
The album Full-Time Job by Phyno explored a blend of rap, highlife, R&B and Gospel genres. It served as a follow-up of his 2021 album Something to Live For. The album housed tracklists that reflected Nigerian music diversity. From its lyricism to production quality, the album deserved more recognition.
- Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic — Joeboy — 2021
On the Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic album, Joeboy took a ride to share the depth of his dexterity to love songs. From Count Me Out to Focus to Show Me, every track is a beautiful love story.
- High Tension — Bella Shmurda — 2020
Nigerian singer Bella Shmurda also delivered his High Tension album in 2020. The album, which had the notable track Vision 2020. It is a project that deserves more recognition for its intentionality.
- Maverick — Kizz Daniel — 2023
Anyone would probably know the hit track Cough (Odo) from Kizz Daniel’s 2023 album Maverick. However, the album didn't quite get the attention it ought to. So, it makes our list.
- Stubborn — Victony — 2024
Victony, the Outlaw Prince as he is fondly known is arguably one artiste that released the best albums in 2024. His sonic debut Stubborn solidified his unique artistry and style. Tracks like Stubborn, Risk, Everything and Tiny Apartment stand out.
- Homeless — Llona — 2024
Fast rising Afrobeats singer Llona is another artiste whose project Homeless is not appreciated enough. For an album that brings his soul bare and shares his life experiences with relatable emotions, it deserved more. Cold War and Can’t Breathe are notable masterpieces off the album.
- Signs — Runtown — 2022
Signs by Renowned singer Runtown is a hidden gem many do not realise. The fourth studio, while it ignores the dominant elements of mainstream media, shines in its themes and artistry. It deserves more attention to discover that it is a gold mine.
5 notable Afrobeats albums to expect in 2025
Meanwhile, TheRadar reported that 2024 brought forth a remarkable array of albums, creating a thrilling roller coaster ride for music enthusiasts with an ever-expanding selection to explore.
However, for 2025, the year has hinted at exciting upcoming releases from Afrobeats' biggest stars. From Burna Boy to Omah Lay and Davido, TheRadar spotlighted five notable Afrobeats music projects fans should expect in 2025.
