LAGOS — Nigerian street-pop sensation Zinoleesky has etched his name in history with his debut album Gen Z, which amassed a staggering 2,458,077 streams on Spotify Nigeria on its release day, April 25, 2025—the highest ever for a debut album on the platform. The 16-track project, released via Marlian Music, also racked up over 500,000 streams on Boomplay within 48 hours, solidifying Zinoleesky’s place as a leader in Afropop’s new wave.
Led by the chart-topping single “Most Wanted,” Gen Z blends Afrobeats, street-pop, and global influences, featuring heavyweights like Naira Marley, Toosii, and Ms Banks. Following hits like “Ma Pariwo” and “Kilofeshe,” and EPs such as Grit & Lust, the album marks a career-defining moment for the Marlian signee, though some debate its overall cohesion. Regardless, its streaming dominance is undeniable.
The same day, Afrobeats continued its global takeover. Ayra Starr and Wizkid dropped their fiery single “Gimme Dat,” while Wizkid, Rema, Tems, and Asake secured nominations for Favorite Afrobeats Artist at the 51st American Music Awards, set for May 26 in Las Vegas. Megan Thee Stallion also ignited the scene with “Whenever,” her first 2025 release, sampling Ms. Cherry’s “It’s Whatever” and fresh off a Coachella set with Queen Latifah and Ciara. In Hollywood, Migos’ Quavo pushed his acting career with High Rollers alongside John Travolta, aiming to outshine hip-hop legends like 2Pac and Will Smith.
Adding a soulful twist, Los Angeles–based artist Monsieur Belange released “Jack in the Box” on April 25 via DistroKid. Inspired by a 2022 moment at a California Jack in the Box, the ’90s-infused hip-hop track, available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, captures the immigrant hustle with raw storytelling.
Stream Gen Z and “Whenever” now, follow @zinoleesky, @ayrastarr, @wizkidayo, @theestallion, and @quavohuncho on Instagram, or visit Monbelange.com for Belange’s journey. Tune in to the AMAs on CBS and Paramount+ to witness Afrobeats’ global reign.
🚨 Zinoleesky's "Gen Z" records 2,458,077 opening day streams on NG Spotify 🔥👏🏽
— It becomes the biggest opening day streams for a debut album in NG Spotify history 📈 pic.twitter.com/G7Lv4KwuLW
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) April 26, 2025
Source: African Publicity