Jaywon Fires Back: ‘This Year’ Has More Cultural Impact Than Billboard’s Pick

Nigerian singer Jaywon has expressed his displeasure after Billboard released its Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time.

Jaywon took to X (formerly Twitter) with a fiery response that his 2012 hit “This Year” didn’t make the cut, affirming that it deserved a spot.

He passionately argued that “This Year” remains one of Nigerian music’s most enduring tracks, widely embraced at New Year celebrations, weddings, church vigils, and more. He further claimed it has outperformed many songs on Billboard’s list in terms of viral longevity and cultural resonance, asserting, “no song on that list has more cultural impact than #ThisYear by Jaywon.”

Jaywon joins the growing list of artists expressing dissatisfaction with Billboard’s recently released Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time.

While the exact methodology behind Billboard’s ranking wasn’t disclosed, such lists typically weigh factors like streaming numbers, chart performance, historical influence, and industry recognition. Still, they often overlook songs that wield deep cultural influence over long periods, especially ones embedded into everyday traditions.

Jaywon’s response underscores how deeply artists feel when their work has become part of a collective experience, yet it is overlooked by institutional ranking. Quantitative charts and “best of” lists often miss out on songs that resonate emotionally and culturally, especially those that defy conventional metrics. His critique suggests the need for broader evaluation frameworks, ones that value emotional resonance and cultural adoption alongside charts and numbers.

Billboard’s “Top 50 Afrobeats Songs of All Time” may offer a snapshot based on certain industry standards, but Jaywon’s “This Year” challenges the assumption that data alone can not define impact. Its continued popularity at celebrations and communal events speaks volumes about how culture often operates outside of algorithms.