2013 in African music

2013 in African music was a year marked by significant developments in the country's music scene.

Overview

2013 in African music featured a mix of internationally successful tracks, breakout regional hits, and major developments across the continent’s music industry. The year was defined by the continued rise of Afrobeats, increased visibility for artists from West, East, Southern, and North Africa, and significant recognition at festivals and awards shows. Collaboration between African and global artists flourished, and local scenes such as Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana maintained prominence. ^[1]

Notable events and highlights

- African music festivals celebrated the continent’s diversity, with major events in South Africa, Nigeria, and Europe’s Africa Festival in Würzburg focusing on both established and emerging talents. The 25th Africa Festival in Germany paid tribute to Mali’s music culture and featured artists such as Manu Dibango, Dobet Gnahoré, Kareyce Fotso, and Manou Gallo. ^[2] - Manu Dibango, a pioneering Cameroonian saxophonist, marked his 80th birthday with special performances and tributes throughout the year, illustrating his lasting legacy. ^[2] - Collaboration between African artists and international stars continued to grow, with charting examples including “Jika” by Mi Casa (South Africa), and hit releases by Burna Boy (Nigeria), Wizkid (Nigeria), Femi Kuti (Nigeria), and Mafikizolo (South Africa). ^[3] - MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act 2013 nominees reflected the continent’s diversity, including Fuse ODG (Ghana), Mafikizolo (South Africa), P-Square (Nigeria), and Wizkid (Nigeria).

Chart performance

Top singles

Among the most prominent African singles in 2013 were:

1. “Personally” – P-Square
2. “Khona” – Mafikizolo feat. Uhuru
3. “Yawa Dey” – Burna Boy
4. “Skelewu” – Davido
5. “The Matter” – Maleek Berry feat. Wizkid
6. “Jennifer” – Gnégnéri Yaya Touré (Wizboyy)
7. “Jika” – Mi Casa
8. “Joy” – Wizkid
9. “Eminado” – Tiwa Savage feat. Don Jazzy
10. “Caro” – L.A.X & Wizkid ^[3]

South African airplay charts in 2013 were led by acts such as Mi Casa (“Jika”), Daft Punk featuring Pharrell Williams (“Get Lucky”), Mafikizolo, and Zahara (“Nelson Mandela”). ^{[4] [ circular reference ]}

Top albums

Notable African album releases of 2013 included:

• Afriyie – Kae Sun
• T.I.N.A – Fuse ODG
• Father Figure – M.anifest
• Maison Des Jeunes – Africa Express (collaborative project led by Damon Albarn)
• Kaani – Sarabi
• Ayo – Wizkid ^[5]

Industry developments

• The African music industry saw rapid digital expansion, especially in Nigeria and South Africa, with streaming and mobile downloads increasing in both markets. ^[6]
• Licensing and live touring became increasingly significant for artist revenues, with international collaborations and regional festivals supporting industry growth.

Major awards

The Nigeria Entertainment Awards and South African Music Awards recognized leading domestic artists such as Davido, Tiwa Savage, Mafikizolo, Mi Casa, and Zahara. ^{[7] [ circular reference ]}

The MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act was presented to Fuse ODG (Ghana).

Notably, the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) was established in 2014 but had not yet awarded its first winners in 2013.

See also

• 2013 in music
• List of number-one singles of 2013 (South Africa)
• 2013 Nigeria Entertainment Awards

References

1. "Making African music in 2013". The Africa Report. 27 December 2013. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
2. "25th Africa Festival (2013)". Africa Festival Würzburg. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
3. "Top 13 Hit Songs Of 2013". Pulse Nigeria. 23 March 2025. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
4. "List of number-one singles of 2013 (South Africa)" . Retrieved 19 July 2025.
5. "Okayafrica's Top 10 Releases Of 2013". Okayafrica. 11 September 2019. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
6. "IFPI Digital Music Report 2013" (PDF). 2013. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
7. "2013 Nigeria Entertainment Awards" . Retrieved 19 July 2025.