This year belonged to Black artistry. From electrifying anthems to introspective ballads, Black artists across genres and continents dominated the airwaves and dance floors and gave us a lot of the best songs of 2023. The year also witnessed the rise of fresh stars like Victoria Monet and Uncle Waffles, alongside the continued reign of titans like Burna Boy and SZA.
This list celebrates the 15 best songs by Black artists that rocked 2023, each one a testament to the boundless creativity, infectious energy, and powerful voices that shape the present and future of music. Dive into these sonic gems and witness the undeniable impact of Black music, a force that transcended borders and resonated with hearts around the world.
Here are the top 15 hits by Black artists of 2023…
#15. Victoria Monet – On My Mama
This soulful R&B anthem wasn’t just a viral TikTok trend; it became a rallying cry for authenticity and self-belief. Victoria Monet’s smooth vocals and powerful lyrics resonated with fans worldwide, solidifying her place as a rising star.
#14. Uncle Waffles, Tony Duardo & Justin99, ft. Pcee, Eeque & Chley – Yahyuppiyah
This infectious Amapiano banger had dance floors all over the globe pulsating. From its driving beat to the joyful call-and-response vocals, Yahyuppiyah captured the spirit of celebration and unity that transcended borders.
#13. Doja Cat – Paint The Town Red
Doja Cat’s signature blend of sass and playful lyricism reached new heights on this genre-bending track. Paint The Town Red effortlessly fused pop, punk, and hip-hop influences, showcasing the artist’s limitless musicality and making it a global party starter.
#12. Davido ft. Musa Keys – Unavailable
Afrobeats powerhouse, Davido teamed up with South African singer and producer, Musa Keys for this irresistible dance anthem. Unavailable showcased the vibrant energy of Afrobeats while featuring catchy lyrics about self-worth and setting boundaries, making it a hit across multiple continents.
#11. Drake ft. J. Cole – First Person Shooter
Hip-hop heavyweights, Drake and J. Cole dropped this lyrical masterpiece, proving that two rap titans are better than one. First Person Shooter features introspective wordplay and intricate flows, delivering a thought-provoking commentary on fame, vulnerability, and societal pressures.
#10. Burna Boy – City Boys
Afrobeat sensation, Burna Boy continues his global dominance with this infectious anthem. City Boys celebrates the hustler spirit and the swagger of urban life, with Burna’s signature swagger and commanding vocals captivating audiences worldwide.
#9. Ice Spice ft. Nicki Minaj – Princess Diana
Queens supporting queens! This collaboration between rising star, Ice Spice and rap icon, Nicki Minaj was a cultural moment. Princess Diana oozes confident lyrics and playful energy, solidifying Ice Spice’s status as a next-generation rap force.
#8. Libianca – People
This Cameroonian singer-songwriter broke through with this poignant ballad about resilience and self-discovery. People showcases Libianca’s powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, connecting with listeners across the globe seeking solace and empowerment.
#7. Metro Boomin’ ft. The Weeknd and 21 Savage – Creepin’
Hip-hop’s hitmaker, Metro Boomin’ tapped into his dark, atmospheric signature sound for this collaboration with The Weeknd and 21 Savage. Creepin’ delivers a haunting melody, introspective lyrics, and Savage’s signature razor-sharp flow, making it a late-night favorite.
#6. Dave ft. Central Cee – Sprinter
UK grime pioneers, Dave and Central Cee joined forces for this introspective track about hustling, survival, and navigating complex social dynamics. Sprinter delivers hard-hitting verses and thought-provoking themes, solidifying their positions as leading voices in the genre.
#5. RAYE ft. 070 Shake – Escapism
This genre-bending collaboration between British artists, RAYE and 070 Shake delivers a captivating mix of soulful vocals and atmospheric production. Escapism explores themes of desire, longing, and finding solace in art, resonating with listeners seeking creative refuge.
#4. Rema ft. Selena Gomez – Calm Down (Remix)
Nigerian Afrobeat star, Rema brought his smooth melodies and infectious rhythms to the global stage with this Selena Gomez remix. Calm Down blends Rema’s distinct sound with Gomez’s pop sensibilities, creating a summery track with global appeal.
#3. Tyla – Water
South African R&B songstress, Tyla delivers a powerful and groovy song about keeping the party going. Water showcases her emotive vocals and honest songwriting, connecting with listeners on a deeply personal level while still having fun.
#2. PinkPanthress ft. Ice Spice – Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2
Bath’s PinkPantheress and Queens’ Ice Spice prove that twice the sass is twice the fun on this playful R&B track. Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2 is a sassy anthem about recognizing player tactics and setting boundaries, resonating with women worldwide.
#1. SZA – Kill Bill
R&B queen, SZA delivered a raw and powerful single that explores themes of anger, betrayal, and reclaiming control. Kill Bill showcases her signature raspy vocals and introspective lyrics, solidifying her status as a leading voice in contemporary R&B and solidifying this hit as the best song by a Black artiste in 2023.
Featured Image: @sza @davido @victoriamonet/Instagram
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