Nigerian singer Iledare Oluwajuwonlo, popularly known as Jaywon, has joined the growing list of artists expressing dissatisfaction with Billboard’s recently released Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time.
The singer voiced his frustration on X (formerly Twitter) after his 2012 classic This Year was omitted from the compilation. Jaywon argued that the record remains one of the most influential anthems in Nigerian music, with a cultural relevance that has endured for over a decade.
According to him, This Year transcends entertainment and has become a staple soundtrack for New Year crossovers, weddings, church vigils, and other celebrations across the country.
He wrote: “‘This Year’ by Jaywon had more viral moments and cultural impact than some of the tracks Billboard ranked. It has been trending since 2012 and is still relevant today. Who else has achieved that? Hate is inevitable. Year after year, both gospel and Afrobeats singers copy the same vibe, but we remain unshaken. I’ll say it again no song on that list has more cultural impact than #ThisYear by Jaywon.”
The remarks of Jaywon on Billboard’s Songs come days after fellow Nigerian singer Terry G also criticized the list for overlooking his contributions to Afrobeats.
Billboard’s ranking placed 2Baba’s timeless love ballad African Queen at number one, followed by Wizkid’s Ojuelegba, Flavour’s Nwa Baby, Rema’s Calm Down, and CKay’s Love Nwantiti.
Trending since 2012 and still going strong. Tell me, who else has pulled that off? 🤷🏾♂️ Hate is inevitable. Year after year, both gospel and Afrobeats acts copy the same vibe, yet we remain unshaken. Cry harder, I said it before, and I’ll say it again…. No song on that list has…
— Jaywon (@JAYWONJUWONLO) August 21, 2025
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