Want timeless Nigerian songs that still ‘slap’ and are much played at wedding ceremonies? Here’s a list of 35 tracks.
Nigerian weddings are widely recognized for their vivid hues, exuberant festivities, and, naturally, the soul-stirring music that permeates the atmosphere. While new musicians continue to emerge with interesting beats and melodies, some classic songs never go out of style. In this piece, JanaTribe will examine the top 35 Nigerian wedding songs of all time and discuss the reasons behind their continued appeal.
Wedding playlists in Nigeria are bizarre because they feature modern hits and timeless classics. Although there is a lot of music from the past, some songs from the past are still very special to couples and their guests because of their emotional meaning and cultural significance.
The nostalgia associated with older tracks evokes memories of joy, love, and unity, making them a treasured part of the wedding experience. These classics often possess timeless melodies and relatable lyrics that resonate across generations, ensuring their continued relevance. Music can transcend time, creating an emotional connection that withstands ever-changing trends.
The top 35 old songs played at weddings
These songs stand as testaments to the enduring power of music to evoke emotions, create lasting memories, and unite generations. Whether old or new, these tracks continue to play a significant role in the celebration of love at Nigerian weddings, connecting people across time and culture through the magic of music.
Let’s delve into the top 35 all-time Nigerian wedding songs, exploring one song at a time with a glimpse into its lyrics and the enduring reasons behind its popularity.
1. Banky W – Heaven (Susu’s Song)
Lyrics you’ll love: “You wanna know if I will ever leave your side/ But I will love you till the very day I die.”
The most important thing about marriage is having someone by your side through life’s inevitable ups and downs. Perhaps no song captures ’till death do us part quite like “Heaven (Susu’s Song)” by Banky W. With his silky smooth voice and a few strums of a guitar, this sentimental song epitomizes everlasting love—in both this life and the next. If you play this during your wedding ceremony, we promise you this: there will be waterworks.
2. P-Square – No One Like You
Lyrics you’ll love: “Hello/ How you doing/ My angel, my one and only/ The only one that I am missing/ When they bring me joy and blessings/ You know, that I love you and I can’t wait to say ‘I do'”
Lyric chorus: “Cause there is no one like you; There is no one like you.”
P-Square’s “No One Like You” is a declaration of love and admiration. The simplicity of the lyrics combined with a captivating melody ensures its place among the all-time favorites at Nigerian weddings.
Even though “No One Like You” was released more than 20 years ago, it is still a must-have for weddings. The upbeat beat and romantic lyrics evoke the thrilling feeling of waking up on your wedding day and counting down the minutes until you can say “I do” to your special someone. But why keep that sensation of butterflies in your stomach to yourself? Have your DJ play “No One Like You” during your reception so your guests can share in the magic of marriage.
3. 2face – African Queen
Lyrics you’ll love: “Just like the sun, lights up the earth, you light up my life/ The only one, I’ve ever seen with a smile so bright. Out of my mind, I’m out of control; But you’re the one I know, you be the one for me.”
As far as we’re concerned, the bride is the ultimate queen of her wedding day. So, why not give her the praise she deserves with “African Queen” by Tuface?
“African Queen,” which was released in 2004 and features beautiful lyrics and engaging rhythm that praise the beauty of love, is still a staple song at Nigerian weddings. 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, wrote the song.
This lovely song, which is ideal for first dances or father-daughter dates, is all about showing love to the woman who brightens the life of her dancing partner.
4. Flavour – Ada Ada
Lyrics you’ll love: “Have you seen my beautiful baby?/ Have you seen my tomato baby ooo? iyele/ Baby softly dey cool me temper, Ada/ Baby na sugar sugar iyo oh.”
Incorporating “Ada Ada” into the wedding playlist is a great way to add a touch of fun and energy to the reception and make it an unforgettable event for all the guests.
Flavour’s “Ada Ada” is a celebration of Igbo culture and love. Regarded as a “wedding theme song” in Nigeria, the song describes the traditional wedding of an Ada, or first daughter. (Psst…if a Nigerian bride wants to dedicate a dance to her parents, this is the perfect song to do so.)
An exuberant, feel-good song that will get everyone up and dancing at any time of the night, the song’s melodic blend of highlife and current sounds has made it a wedding anthem, representing the excitement and cultural pride of the occasion.
5. Flavour – Ololufe
Lyrics you’ll love: “How can I be your Mr. Right/ Baby what I feel it’s so strong/ Ife ife ife/ You are the apple of eyes/ Ife ife ife/ I’m gonna love you till I die.”
Think of “Ololufe’ as the perfect song for an aww-inducing first dance. (We dare you to not tear up when you read the lyrics!)
Sung by Nigerian singer Flavour, this romantic ballad has a bright, upbeat beat that makes us think of falling in love with your partner. The word “ololufe” means “lover” in English, so there is no better song to symbolize the relationship you have with your new spouse.
6. Wande Coal – Ololufe
Lyrics you’ll love: “You’re my everything/ I can’t even say I’m in/ Because of the love you bring/ That’s why I will always sing/ And every time I’m weak/ And every time I sleep/ I know I’m still dreaming about you.”
Speaking of “Ololufe,” did you know that Wande Coal has a song with the same name? (And, to make this even more complicated, his iteration is also perfect for a first dance.) In this slowed-down track, Coal’s lyrics perfectly capture that all-consuming, “don’t-know-what-I’d-do-without-you” love that every couple feels on their wedding day.
7. D’banj – Fall in Love
Lyrics you’ll love: “See, I never thought that I’ll find someone like you/ That will capture my heart and there’s nothing I can do.”
D’banj’s “Fall in Love” is a lively, smile-inducing song that will add a pep to your step whether you are walking down the street or down the aisle. Plus, D’banj’s portrayal of transforming from a player into a lover boy is what romantic comedies are made of, which translates to the perfect happy ending to your special day. If there is a lull in the setlist, this song will definitely pick up the pace.
8. Timi Dakolo – Iyawo Mi
Lyrics you’ll love: “Yes I wanna build my whole world around you/ So I promise you forever and for always/ Girl you are my sunshine baby don’t you go away.”
Timi Dakolo is one of those people who can never say no to compliments. In his song “Iyawo Mi,” which means “my wife,” the Nigerian singer-songwriter waxes poetic about the special woman in his life.
A poignant choice for couples to express their commitment and love, Timi Dakolo’s soulful rendition of “Iyawo Mi” is a powerful ode to the beauty of marriage. (Not only is she his lover and best friend, but Dakolo also says she is as beautiful as “an angel in the morning.” We are blushing!)
This beat will definitely make people seem good, whether you play it before your much-awaited first look or dedicate it to your spouse at the wedding reception.
9. Adekunle Gold – Orente
Lyrics you’ll love: “If I had to choose, babe; It will always be you, babe. Shout out to my one and only/ Na you be my alobam/ Nkem you are my one in a million.”
Adekunle Gold’s “Orente” is a hit song in Nigerian weddings, beloved by both newlyweds and their guests, and it embodies the essence of real love with its emotional lyrics and Afrobeat mood.
“Orente” is a great song to sing to your lifelong companion because it is a slower-paced song that is best saved for the first dance or processional during a wedding ceremony. The word “orente” is often used to describe a woman who is lovely and faithful.
10. Kizz Daniel – Woju
Lyrics you’ll love: “Nor be you I want to buy/ But na you I want to marry. Baby, woju o; I think I’ve found the one, o; Woju o, woju o.”
“Woju,” the breakout hit song for Kiss Daniel, is a captivating romantic tune that swiftly gained popularity in the Nigerian music market. Couples often choose to dance to it on their wedding day because of its catchy beats and beautiful lyrics.
You can not go wrong with “Woju” for a lively song that will have your bridesmaids running to the dance floor after dinner. (Pro tip: Play the remix Kizz Daniel did with Davido and Tiwa Savage to really turn up the celebration. Trust us, you will get major props from your wedding party.)
11. Banky W – Made for You
Lyrics you’ll love: “Baby I was made for you/ I was made for you/ As you were made for me/ Baby can’t you see/ That I was made for/ I was made for you/ That you were made for me.”
How does it feel when you find your match? Relief? A sense of peace? Complete disbelief that someone fits your life so seamlessly? Banky W. manages to capture all of those emotions—and then some—in “Made for You.” Crank up the romance and play this slow down in between meal courses and watch all the couples around you develop some serious heart eyes.
12. Wizkid – On Top Your Matter
Lyrics you’ll love: “Love me make I love you baby oh (baby oh)/ Kiss me make I kiss you baby oh (my baby oh).”
Don’t let this pulse-pumping tempo fool you: Wizkid’s “On Top Your Matter” represents the heart of the matter. From the courting process to walking down the aisle, this tune feels like a fast-forward look at falling (and staying) in love. But, since it’s not over-the-top romantic, it’s a great beat to bust out toward the end of a wedding reception.
13. Sean Tizzle – Perfect Gentleman
Lyrics you’ll love: “Let me be your, a perfect gentleman oh/ Let me be the man to always hold you down/ Could you be the one for me.”
Not everyone has to be a “perfect gentleman” to appreciate Sean Tizzle’s hit song. Ever since its 2014 release, this energetic and inspiring song has become a staple at Nigerian weddings. It will have everyone up and dancing. (Rumor has it that Tizzle recorded this song in both Yoruba and English, so it’s perfect for any type of party!)
14. Sunny Neji – Oruka
Lyrics you’ll love: “It’s your wedding day so be happy and rejoice/ Whatever they say today you made your choice/ This is only where one and one is one/ Ololufe re together you belong.”
Sunny Neji’s “Oruka” is a celebration of love and marriage, with lyrics that beautifully capture the essence of the wedding ceremony. Its enduring appeal lies in its cultural relevance and timeless message.
If you want to tug at your family’s heartstrings, dedicate Sunny Neji’s “Oruka” to your parents and in-laws.
Though this smooth, silky tune talks about all the joy that marriage brings, it does touch upon how some parents feel as they watch their children tie the knot. As Neji croons: “Mommy don’t cry cause your baby girl has become a woman; daddy don’t cry cause your baby boy has become a man today.”
15. Tosin Martins – Olo Mi
Lyrics you’ll love: “Olo mi, oni’temi Ore mi, ololufe.”
Sung in Yoruba, “Olo Mi” by Tosin Martins has that easy, breezy quality that makes it the perfect thing to play during dinner or cocktail hour. But, as it turns out, the lyrics are downright romantic. Throughout the song, Martins repeats a few sweet phrases: “Olo mi” (my love), “ore mi” (my friend), and “ololufe” (my lover.)
16. Patoranking and Wande Coal – My Woman, My Everything
Lyrics you’ll love: “My woman oh, my everything.”
The key to a great wedding playlist is to include songs that appeal to a wide range of listeners, not just those who are deeply in love. Luckily, “My Woman, My Everything,” a song by Patoranking and Wande Coal, checks all the boxes. Its catchy beat and repeated lyrics will let guests concentrate on their amazing dance moves.
17. Davido – Assurance
Lyrics you’ll love: “I am looking for a sister, Chioma my lover; She get the dollar, she dey wear designer. Assurance, assurance/ I give my baby assurance/ I give my baby lifetime insurance.”
Davido’s “Assurance” became an instant hit in Nigeria, and its catchy lyrics and afrobeat vibes have turned it into a modern-day wedding anthem that appeals to couples looking for a song that declares their love and devotion.
Although Davido, the Afrobeats artist, composed “Assurance” to express his undying love and dedication for his long-term spouse, Chioma, we think this endearing statement will speak to all newlyweds.
Play this quiet and soothing music as a first dance or during your wedding ceremony; guests of various backgrounds will appreciate it. Even though Davido is a Nigerian-American artist, Assurance has gained popularity in many other nations.
18. Tekno – Duro
Lyrics you’ll love: “You are my remedy/ You are my melody.”
Play Tekno’s “Duro” for the ideal balance of romantic and upbeat. The song features sweet words of affirmation to the mother of his children, paired with a laid-back melody that will make you want to dance. If your wedding day includes speeches, “Duro” can be a great song to play as the microphone is passed around the room.
19. “Laye” by Kizz Daniel
Lyric: “I no fit to die for nothing, I no fit to die for nothing; I wan die for your loving.”
“Laye” by Kizz Daniel is a moving song that captures the spirit of intense love and devotion; its sincere lyrics and compelling melody make it a fitting addition to any wedding soundtrack. It is a monument to the power of love and the willingness to go to tremendous lengths for it.
20. “For Life” by Runtown
Lyric: “Every superwoman needs her superman; Your love gimme joy wey I no fit to understand.”
“For Life” by Runtown is a heartfelt proclamation of unending love. The song’s smooth fusion of R&B and afrobeat components and romantic lyrics solidify its status as a classic wedding anthem, reflecting the emotions of couples making a commitment.
21. “Obianuju” by Mighty Duncan
Lyric: “Obianuju, baby, no be wash; If them tell you say I dey with another person, baby, no be rush.”
With its soft tune and endearing lyrics, Mighty Duncan’s “Obianuju” is a charming and affectionate love ballad that elevates any wedding and fosters a dedicated and loving ambiance.
22. “Beautiful Onyinye” by P-Square ft. Rick Ross
Lyric: “Beautiful Onyinye, eeh; I’ve come to give you security; Loving, and purity.”
The song “Beautiful Onyinye,” which P-Square and Rick Ross collaborated on, is a blend of Afrobeat and cosmopolitan flavors. Its catchy beat and celebration of beauty and love have made it a wedding favorite, leaving couples and their guests with unforgettable memories.
23. “Olufunmi” by Styl-Plus
Lyric: “You are the one I think of, the one I cherish; The one that I love.”
“Olufunmi” by Styl-Plus, which became immediately popular in Nigeria in the early 2000s, is a timeless love song that is still played at weddings because of its beautiful melody and meaningful lyrics.
24. “Love Me Jeje” by Seyi Sodimu
Lyric: “Love me jeje, love me tender; Baby, love me jeje, love me forever.”
“Love Me Jeje” by Seyi Sodimu is a timeless Afrobeat love song that is a favorite among couples who want to show their love on the dance floor because of its catchy rhythm and heartfelt lyrics.
25. “Kukere” by Iyanya
Lyric: “All the guys go dey, when I see you dey dance kukere; Baby girl, you go dey, cause I see you dey dance kukere.”
Iyanya’s “Kukere,” with its infectious sounds and upbeat mood, is a go-to track for anyone wishing to add some vibrant dance steps to the celebration. It introduced a new wave of dance music to Nigerian weddings.
26. “Joromi” by Sir Victor Uwaifo
Lyric: “Joromi, Joromi; I want to love you, Joromi.”
Couples are still dancing to the sounds of Sir Victor Uwaifo’s ageless hit “Joromi,” which has become a generational classic due to its captivating rhythm and heartfelt lyrics. It is considered one of the best Nigerian wedding songs.
27. “So Mi So” by Wande Coal
Lyric: “I want you to know, say I dey feel you so; I dey feel you so.”
The beautiful melody and passionate lyrics of Wande Coal’s “So Mi So,” a modern Afrobeat hit that has quickly become a wedding favorite, give a perfect setting for couples to share special moments on the dance floor.
28. “Your Smile” by Tjan
Lyric: “Your smile is a melody, it dey play for my heart like a symphony.”
Tjan’s “Your Smile” is a soulful ballad that celebrates the radiance of love. The song’s poetic lyrics and soothing melody make it an ideal choice for couples looking for a romantic soundtrack to their special day.
29. “One Naira” by MI Abaga ft. Waje
Lyric: “Love is in the air, let’s put our problems in the air; Bills on me, baby, cheer.”
MI Abaga’s “One Naira” featuring Waje is a unique blend of rap and soulful vocals. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and collaborative brilliance have made it a standout choice for couples seeking a memorable wedding song.
30. “Omo Naija” by Dr. Sid
Lyric: “Omo Naija, we dey carry go; Nobody can stop us, we dey carry go.”
Dr. Sid’s “Omo Naija” is a celebration of Nigerian identity and pride. With its upbeat tempo and patriotic lyrics, the song adds a festive touch to weddings, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.
31. “Ojoro” by DJ Neptune ft. Flash & D’Banj
DJ Neptune’s collaboration with Flash and D’Banj in “Ojoro” is a modern afrobeat hit that has found its way into the hearts of many. The song’s upbeat rhythm and romantic lyrics make it a dance-worthy addition to any wedding playlist.
32. Chidinma – Fallen in Love
Lyric: “You suppose know say I love you; Baby, nothing I fit do without you.”
Chidinma Ekile, known professionally as Chidinma, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress.
The melancholy ballad “Fallen in Love” by Chidinma is a great choice for couples wishing to convey the depth of their adoration on their big day because it portrays the emotions of falling head over heels in love with its melodic melody and heartfelt lyrics.
33. “Johnny” by Yemi Alade
Lyric: “Johnny leave me follow Cynthia, and I don’t know what to do; And he talk say I no do him good.”
Yemi Alade’s “Johnny” is a high-energy afro-pop hit that narrates a captivating love story. The song’s catchy chorus and danceable beats have made it a favorite at weddings, prompting guests to join in on the fun.
34. “Fada Fada” by Phyno ft. Olamide
Lyric: “Baba God abeg, make you bless me today; Baba God abeg, make you bless me today.”
Phyno and Olamide’s collaboration in “Fada Fada” is a celebration of success and gratitude. The song’s blend of Igbo rap and highlife elements has made it a popular choice at weddings, where couples express gratitude for the journey that led them to their special day.
35. “Mad Over You” by Runtown
Lyric: “Girl, I wanna be your man, oh man; I’m mad over you, girl say I’m mad over you.”
Runtown’s “Mad Over You” became a smash hit at Nigerian weddings thanks to its passionate declaration of love and catchy melody. The song’s Afrobeat influence made it an instant favorite. The catchy beat and lyrics about falling in love make any celebration more intense.
Conclusion
As the beats of these timeless and contemporary tracks continue to echo through wedding halls, it becomes evident that music is a powerful force that unites generations, cultures, and hearts. Whether it’s the classic ballads of yesteryear or the chart-topping hits of today, Nigerian wedding playlists are a rich tapestry of sounds that celebrate the universal language of love.
These songs serve as a testament to the enduring nature of music, as they bridge the gap between the old and the new, connecting people through shared emotions and experiences. In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian weddings, these 35 songs stand tall as the soundtracks to countless love stories, each note resonating with the joy, unity, and cultural richness that define these celebrations.
As couples continue to embark on their journey of love, they will undoubtedly find inspiration in the melodies that have transcended time. The classics remind us of the beauty of enduring love, while the contemporary hits capture the essence of modern romance. Together, they create a harmonious blend that mirrors the diverse and dynamic nature of Nigerian weddings.
So, whether it’s the soulful tunes of 2Baba’s “African Queen” or the infectious beats of WizKid and Burna Boy’s “Ginger,” these songs will continue to weave themselves into the fabric of Nigerian wedding culture. As the dance floors come alive with the rhythm of love, these tracks will echo the sentiments of couples and their guests, turning each celebration into a symphony of joy and connection.
In the end, it’s the music that makes the memories, and these 20 all-time Nigerian wedding songs have etched their place in the hearts of those who have danced, laughed, and celebrated love under their spell. They are more than songs; they are the melodies that accompany the journey of love, creating an everlasting soundtrack for generations to come.
