15 Afropop Songs That Made Their Way Into TV and Film

Afropop is no longer just dominating music charts — it’s also carving out a space in global television and film. From blockbuster movies to hit TV shows, African artists are bringing their infectious rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and vibrant energy to audiences worldwide. Here’s a look at 15 Afropop tracks that have been featured in screens big and small.

1. “Essence” — Wizkid feat. Tems

Featured in: And Just Like That… (2025) and Ted Lasso (2023)

Wizkid and Tems’ global smash “Essence” sets a smooth, ambient backdrop for key scenes, including parties and celebrations, highlighting its universal appeal.

2. “London Town” — Mr. Eazi

Featured in: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)

Mr. Eazi’s “London Town” plays as Dr. Robotnik emerges under London’s cobblestones, perfectly blending Afropop with cinematic energy.

3. “Game Changer” — Flavour

Featured in: Power Book II: Ghost (2024)

Flavour’s “Game Changer” adds cultural depth to a wedding scene, playing right after the traditional “Igbo Kwenu” greeting during a lavish celebration.

4. “Heartbreaker” — Blaqbonez ft. Nasty C

Featured in: All the Queen’s Men (2023)

The track turns up the energy at Club Eden, immersing viewers in the club’s electric atmosphere.

5. “I’m a Mess” — Omah Lay

Featured in: Everything Now (2023)

Omah Lay’s melancholic “I’m a Mess” perfectly underscores a poignant car ride, adding emotional depth to a character’s recovery journey.

6. “No Wahala” — 1da Banton

Featured in: Ted Lasso (2023)

Used during a Nigerian restaurant celebration, this track reinforces the show’s authentic representation of African heritage.

7. “Higher” — Tems

Featured in: All American (2023)

Tems’ “Higher” provides a sultry soundtrack for a university fashion show dance routine, blending romance and culture.

8. “Gbona” — Burna Boy

Featured in: Top Boy (2022)

Burna Boy’s “Gbona” captures freedom and reunion as a character relishes life post-prison. Its presence showcases the genre’s global cinematic impact.

9. “Shake Body” — Skales

Featured in: Sex Education (2021)

From Eric Effiong dancing in the mirror to club and family scenes, “Shake Body,” alongside tracks by Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Fela Kuti, demonstrates Afropop’s versatility in storytelling.

10. “Assurance” — Davido

Featured in: Coming 2 America (2021)

Performed during the royal wedding, Davido’s “Assurance” solidifies Afropop’s presence in Hollywood, marking a celebratory moment in the film.

11. “Daddy Yo” — Wizkid

Featured in: Pacific Rim Uprising (2018)

From Jaeger pool parties to behind-the-scenes fun, Wizkid’s “Daddy Yo” brings Afropop to sci-fi audiences.

12. “Johnny” — Yemi Alade

Featured in: Chewing Gum (2017)

Yemi Alade’s playful track “Johnny” adds humor to a scene about relationship chaos, proving Afropop’s adaptability to storytelling.

13. “Skelewu” — Davido

Featured in: Queen of Katwe (2016)

“Skelewu” provides the soundtrack to a young chess prodigy’s triumphs, blending Nigerian pop culture with Disney storytelling.

14. “Rapid Fire” — Cruel Santino, Shane Eagle, Tomi Agape & Amaarae

Featured in: Ballers (2015)

From press conferences to intimate character moments, this track, along with others by African artists, underscores Afropop’s dynamic presence in American TV.

15. “African Queen” — 2baba

Featured in: Phat Girlz (2006)

2baba’s iconic “African Queen” not only sets romantic tones in the movie but also helped introduce Afrobeats to international audiences, standing the test of time as a global classic.

Why This Matters

The inclusion of these tracks in major films and TV shows is more than just background music — it’s a cultural statement. Afropop’s infectious rhythms and storytelling have transcended borders, allowing African artists to shine on the global stage. From romantic Disney films to Netflix dramas and major Hollywood blockbusters, these songs prove that Afropop isn’t just a genre — it’s a global movement.

Charts Africa Takeaway:

The journey of Afropop into film and television highlights the genre’s universality, versatility, and undeniable impact. As international audiences continue to embrace African music, the genre’s influence on pop culture will only grow stronger.