Which Afrobeats album has done it for you when it comes to having a good intro song?
There’s something about a great album intro—it grabs you, sets the tone, and lets you know exactly what kind of ride you’re in for. In Afrobeats, where rhythm and storytelling collide, an intro is the moment an artist pulls you into their world, whether with an urgent declaration, a reflective monologue, or a sonic explosion that demands your attention.
For some artists, the intro is a bold mission statement, a chest-thumping declaration of dominance. For others, it’s a quiet moment of vulnerability, the kind of track that feels like a diary entry whispered into a microphone. And then there are those intros that feel like a handshake—welcoming you into a body of work with the warmth of familiar sounds and the nostalgia of home. No matter the approach, one thing is clear: Afrobeats intros are never just filler. They are the heartbeat of an album, the first stroke of a masterpiece.
In this list, we’re diving into 10 of the best Afrobeats album intros—tracks that don’t just start an album but define it.
1. Fireboy DML – Need You (Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps)
Fireboy DML opens Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps with Need You, and it’s pure longing wrapped in silk. Pheelz laces it with this lush, R&B-ish glow—think late-night drives and a heart too full to stay quiet. It’s the kind of intro that makes you feel every word, setting up a body of work that’s all about the highs and lows of love.
2. Asake – Dull (Mr Money With The Vibe)
Asake doesn’t walk into Mr Money With The Vibe—he crashes through the door with Dull. Those Fuji chants hit like a call from the ancestors, raw and proud, weaving a thread of Nigerian grit into every note. It’s less about flash and more about roots, a middle finger to anyone doubting his lane. This is Asake saying he’s here, unapologetic, ready to own it.
3. The Cavemen – Teach Me How To Love (Love and Highlife)
The Cavemen roll up with Teach Me How To Love, and man, it’s like stepping into a sepia-toned highlife joint from the ‘70s. Love and Highlife starts here, all warm and woozy, a plea wrapped in nostalgia that’s got romance dripping from every chord. It’s the kind of opener that makes you want to slow dance with someone—or at least the memory of them.
4. Davido – Over Dem (Timeless)
Davido’s Over Dem is a chest-thumping war cry kicking off Timeless. This ain’t subtle—it’s the sound of a king flexing, letting you know he’s still the guy who runs the game. Big, brash, and dripping with that OBO energy, it’s a promise that this LP’s about to take no prisoners.
5. Omah Lay – Recognize (Boy Alone)
Omah Lay’s Recognize creeps in quietly, but cuts deep. Boy Alone starts with this stripped-down confessional—dark, heavy, like he’s spilling his guts in a late-night voicemail. It’s the sound of a guy wrestling his demons, and it hooks you into an album that’s all raw, messy truth.
6. Burna Boy – Pree Me (Redemption)
Burna Boy’s Pree Me is the spark that lights Redemption—a middle finger to the haters delivered with a snarl. It’s rough, rebellious, and full of that Afrofusion fire he’d later turn into a global blaze. This intro has an edge, daring you to keep up with a dude who’s already three steps ahead.
7. BNXN – Bad Since ‘97 (Bad Since ‘97)
BNXN struts out the gate with Bad Since ‘97, and it’s all swagger, no apologies. This is him planting his flag, telling you he’s been that guy since day one. The vibe is slick and confident, a perfect kickoff to a project that’s about owning your shine in a crowded scene.
8. Wizkid – Reckless (Made in Lagos, 2020)
Wizkid’s Reckless glides into Made in Lagos like a cool Atlantic breeze—smooth, reflective, and undeniably Lagos at its core. It’s a love letter to home and a testament to his journey, setting the tone for a body of work that feels less like a playlist and more like the perfect soundtrack to life.
9. Burna Boy – African Giant (African Giant)
Burna Boy storms in with African Giant, and it’s a coronation from the jump. This is pride in full stereo—big, bold, and screaming African excellence. It’s the sound of a man claiming his throne, setting African Giant up as a love song to the continent.
10. Davido – Intro (A Good Time)
Davido opens A Good Time with Intro, setting the tone for a project built on celebration and success. He’s in his element here—flashing wealth, confidence, and a carefree attitude. Kiddominant’s beat is smooth and inviting, creating a lively start to the project. While it’s not lyrically deep, it doesn’t have to be. This track is about enjoying the moment, and it does that effortlessly.
11. Burna Boy – Level Up (Twice As Tall)
Level Up introduces Twice As Tall with weight and purpose. Featuring Youssou N’Dour, the song reflects on Burna Boy’s journey—his struggles, his victories, and his relentless drive. The beat is steady, building anticipation, while the lyrics speak to perseverance.
12. Rema – Divine (Rave & Roses)
Rema takes a personal approach with Divine, the first track on Rave & Roses. The title itself holds meaning, as it’s his real name—a nod to his roots. The production is light and ethereal, allowing his voice to shine with raw sincerity. It’s not just about music; it’s about his story. It’s clear the song resonates, setting the tone for an album that blends personal reflections with Rema’s signature sound.
13. Fireboy DML – Champion (Apollo)
Fireboy DML opens Apollo with confidence in Champion. The track carries an air of victory, with D Smoke’s guest verse reinforcing the theme. Pheelz crafts a bold, uplifting beat that amplifies Fireboy’s message of success and determination.
14. Oxlade – O2 (Oxygene EP)
Oxlade takes a different route with O2, the opening track on his Oxygene EP. Instead of a hard-hitting intro, he delivers a smooth, heartfelt love song. The production is gentle, allowing his voice to glide effortlessly over the beat. O2 stands out as a quiet yet impactful opener, offering something refreshing. It may not be the typical album introduction, but it establishes the EP’s emotional depth right away.
15. Runtown – Signs (Signs)
This is one of the most introspective tracks on this list. Opening his Signs LP, Runtown reflects on money, faith, and life’s unpredictability. The production is understated, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. It’s one of the newer songs here, but it carries a depth that makes it stand out. After time away from the industry, this track feels like a measured return—thoughtful and steady.
