Nigerian global superstar Wizkid has made history yet again. He’s now believed to be the first on the list of the best-selling African artists of all time. Reports suggest he has surpassed Algerian Rai legend Cheb Khaled with over 81 million units sold.
Wizkid is also the first African artist to cross 20 billion on-demand audio streams, and remains the continent’s most awarded artist with more than 200 awards.
While exact certifications are still being verified, music lovers in Africa and around the world agree on the extent of Wizkid’s global reach. Powered by hits like ‘Essence’ and major international collaborations, Wizkid has cemented his place at the top of African music history. 
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Top 10 Best-Selling African Artists of All Time
These sales figures combine physical record sales, digital downloads, and streaming equivalents. You can find them on IFPI, Rolling Stone charts, Nielsen/MRC Data, Billboard, Daily Star, Music Business Worldwide, and many others.
Here’s a breakdown of the Top 10 Best-Selling African Artists of All Time, based on accumulated units, streaming equivalents, and global impact.
1. Wizkid (Nigeria) — Over 81 Million Units
Wizkid’s ascent from Lagos to the global stage has been boundless. The same man, who’s the first African artist to achieve 20 billion+ on-demand streams, also has multiple Grammy nominations and won the award alongside several others, with chart dominance worldwide. His catalogue features the best of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B.
2. Cheb Khaled (Algeria) — Approximately 81 Million Units
The Rai music pioneer known for timeless hits like ‘Didi‘ and ‘Aïcha‘. Khaled helped put North African music on the world map long before Afrobeats’ rise.
3. Burna Boy (Nigeria) — Approximately 55 Million Units
Grammy-winning sensation and global touring powerhouse, Damini Ogulu, is next on the list. Burna Boy’s fusion of Afro-fusion, reggae, and hip-hop has made him one of the most influential contemporary African artists.
4. Amr Diab (Egypt) — Approximately 50 Million Units
Amr Diab is arguably the most successful Middle Eastern pop star of all time. He is called “The Father of Mediterranean Music,” and he has decades of hits and a loyal global fanbase.
5. Tamer Hosny (Egypt) — Over 40 Million Units
Tamer is a singer, actor, and songwriter whose romantic ballads and pop hits have dominated the North Africa and the Arab world for years.
6. Sherine (Egypt) — Over 40 Million Units
One of Egypt’s most beloved vocalists, Sherine is known for her powerful voice and emotive performances.
7. P-Square (Nigeria) — Approximately 40 Million Units
This twin duo defined Nigerian pop/R&B in the 2000s and early 2010s. They influenced a generation of Afro-pop artists.
8. Rema (Nigeria) — Approximately 30 Million Units
International breakthrough artist with hits like ‘Calm Down,’ Rema is a defining Afrobeats global smash with massive streaming power.
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9. CKay (Nigeria) — Approximately 25 Million Units
Ckay achieved viral global success with ‘Love Nwantiti.’ That single is one of the most-streamed African songs ever.
10. Tems (Nigeria) — Between 20-25 Million Units
Grammy-winning vocalist and collaborator on global hits like Essence, Tems is among the most influential African voices in modern music.
In Closing
While the dominance of Nigerian artists on this list highlights the explosive global expansion of Afrobeats, the inclusion of legendary figures like Cheb Khaled and Amr Diab offers a glimpse into Africa’s deep musical legacy, spanning decades and diverse genres.
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