Asake makes history with five number one projects on UK Apple music chart

The global rise of Afrobeats has taken another defining leap, and at the center of it stands Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake. The Nigerian superstar has carved his name into music history by becoming the first African artist to secure five different number one projects on the United Kingdom Apple Music chart. This remarkable achievement arrives on the back of his newly released album M$NEY, a project that has already begun to reshape conversations around global streaming dominance and the ever-expanding reach of African music.

What makes this milestone particularly striking is not just the number itself, but the consistency and speed with which Asake has reached it. In a music industry where longevity is often hard-won and chart success can be fleeting, he has managed to sustain an almost uninterrupted run at the very top. Since his breakout in 2022, he has released a steady stream of projects that have not only resonated deeply with listeners in Nigeria but have also traveled seamlessly across borders, finding massive audiences in the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond.

His journey began with Mr. Money With The Vibe, a debut album that immediately announced his arrival as a distinct and powerful voice in Afrobeats. The project introduced listeners to his unique blend of Fuji-inspired vocals, street-rooted storytelling, and the pulsating rhythms of Amapiano. It was not just a successful debut; it was a statement of intent. Songs from the album dominated playlists and social spaces, laying a solid foundation for what would quickly become an extraordinary career trajectory.

Rather than slowing down after his initial success, Asake followed up with Work of Art in 2023, a sophomore effort that proved he was no one-album wonder. The project carried a more refined sound, yet retained the raw energy that made him stand out. Tracks like “Lonely At The Top” became global anthems, capturing themes of ambition, isolation, and the pressures that come with success. The album’s performance on international charts further cemented his growing influence, particularly in the UK where Afrobeats has continued to gain mainstream acceptance.

By the time he released Lungu Boy in 2024, Asake had already established himself as one of the most exciting artists of his generation. This third album showed a willingness to push creative boundaries and embrace global collaborations. Featuring artists like Stormzy, Travis Scott, and Central Cee, the project expanded his sonic palette and positioned him firmly within the global music conversation. It also demonstrated his ability to adapt without losing his identity, a balance that many artists struggle to maintain as they scale internationally.

Earlier in 2026, he teamed up with Wizkid for the joint EP REAL VOL 1, a collaboration that brought together two of Nigeria’s most influential musical forces. The project was highly anticipated and delivered on its promise, quickly climbing to the top of the UK Apple Music chart. It was another clear indication that Asake was not just riding a wave but actively shaping it.

Now, with the release of M$NEY on May 1, 2026, he has reached a new level of achievement. The album has not only secured the number one spot in the UK but has also triggered a wave of streaming activity across multiple platforms. Within just a few days, it amassed over 100 million streams on Spotify, a figure that underscores both his popularity and the global appetite for his music. In Nigeria, the album has taken over the Apple Music Top 10, a rare feat that speaks to his dominance on the home front.

M$NEY feels like more than just another addition to his discography. It carries the aura of an artist fully aware of his position and unafraid to lean into it. The themes of wealth, success, and self-assertion run throughout the project, reflecting both his personal journey and the broader narrative of Afrobeats as a genre that has fought for global recognition. In the lead-up to the album’s release, Asake made headlines for his lavish spending, reportedly investing billions of naira in luxury cars for himself and his parents. While such gestures often spark debate, they also reinforce the larger story he is telling through his music, one of transformation, reward, and arrival.

The album also highlights his commitment to collaboration and musical exploration. Featuring artists like Tiakola, DJ Snake, and Kabza De Small, M$NEY bridges different musical worlds while maintaining a cohesive sound. The influence of South African house music, particularly the emerging three-step Afro-house style, is evident throughout the project. With longtime collaborator Magicsticks at the helm of production, the album strikes a balance between innovation and familiarity, giving listeners something fresh without alienating those who have followed his journey from the beginning.

Beyond the music itself, Asake’s success is deeply tied to his understanding of the streaming era. He has mastered the art of creating songs that resonate instantly while also having the depth to sustain repeated listens. His ability to dominate digital platforms is reflected in a series of impressive statistics. He is currently regarded as the most streamed artist in Nigeria’s history on Spotify, a testament to his widespread appeal and consistent output. On the TurnTable charts, he has maintained a position as the most streamed artist in the country every year since 2022, a level of consistency that is rare in any market.

Internationally, his presence continues to grow. His ranking on the Global Spotify Top Artists chart places him alongside some of the biggest names in music history, including icons like Michael Jackson and globally dominant groups like BTS. Achieving a peak position of number fifteen on such a competitive list is no small feat, especially for an artist whose primary sound is rooted in a genre that only recently began receiving widespread global recognition.

What sets Asake apart is not just the numbers, but the cultural impact behind them. He represents a new wave of African artists who are redefining what it means to be global. Rather than conforming to existing Western pop structures, he brings his own influences to the forefront, allowing the world to meet him on his terms. His music carries the energy of Lagos streets, the rhythm of traditional sounds, and the polish of contemporary production, creating a blend that feels both authentic and universally appealing.

The nickname “Landlord,” which he embraced during his Work of Art era, has taken on a new meaning in light of his latest achievement. Fans initially used the term playfully, referencing his apparent control over the charts, but it now feels like a fitting description of his position in the industry. With five number one projects in the UK, he has effectively established a form of ownership over a space that was once difficult for African artists to penetrate.

His live performances further reinforce this status. From sold-out shows in major cities to standout appearances like the Red Bull Symphonic concert in Brooklyn, he has proven that his appeal extends beyond streaming numbers. He is an artist who can command a stage, connect with diverse audiences, and translate digital success into real-world impact.

Asake’s rise also speaks to the broader evolution of Afrobeats. What was once considered a niche genre has grown into a global force, influencing sounds, trends, and charts around the world. Artists like him are not just beneficiaries of this growth; they are active drivers of it. Each milestone he achieves opens new doors for others, creating opportunities for the next generation of African talent to reach even greater heights.

At the same time, his journey highlights the importance of consistency and vision. In an era where viral moments can create overnight stars, maintaining relevance requires more than just a hit song. It demands a clear identity, a strong work ethic, and the ability to adapt without losing direction. Asake has demonstrated all of these qualities, building a career that feels both carefully constructed and organically evolved.

As the dust settles on this latest achievement, the question is no longer whether Asake is one of the biggest African artists in the world. That conversation has already been settled. The focus now shifts to how far he can go and what new records he might break next. With his current trajectory, it would not be surprising to see him push even further into global territories, challenging established norms and setting new benchmarks for success.

For now, though, this moment belongs to him. Five number one projects on the UK Apple Music chart is not just a personal victory; it is a milestone for African music as a whole. It reflects years of growth, collaboration, and cultural exchange, culminating in a single achievement that captures the attention of the world.

Asake is no longer just riding the wave of Afrobeats. He is helping to shape its direction, redefine its possibilities, and carry it into new territories. With M$NEY leading the charge, his reign shows no signs of slowing down, and the global music scene is all the more dynamic for it.

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