article

The 2023 Nigerian Mid-Year Charts: Heartbreaking Hit Songs & The Tale of Omah Lay's "Soso"

by Aisha Yusuf

Jul 15, 2023, 10:04:58 AM

"Soso" Reigns as the Top Song for the First Half of 2023

Omah Lay's captivating track, "Soso," has claimed the title of the top song for the first half of 2023 in Nigeria. This remarkable achievement is credited to its inclusion in Omah Lay's debut album, 'Boy Alone.' Initially dwelling in obscurity, the song entered the charts at No. 51 on the Top 100. However, it steadily ascended, capturing the hearts of listeners along the way, until it ultimately peaked at the No. 2 spot on the weekly Official Nigeria Top 100, solidifying its status as the fan favourite from the album.

Throughout music history, numerous artists have demonstrated that melancholic songs can become resounding hits, especially when infused with upbeat sounds. Tracks like Mike Posner's "I Took A Pill In Ibiza," Outkast's "Hey Ya," and even Omah Lay's own 2021 No. 1 hit "Understand" fall within this category. Such songs typically require time for the lyrical message to resonate with the audience since the catchy melodies often distract them from the underlying emotions.

This is where the allure of "Soso" truly shines. While the infectious bass-driven rhythm entices listeners, it strikes a delicate balance, never overpowering the song's emotive essence. As a result, "Soso" succeeds in being both an upbeat dance track and an emotional ballad—one that encourages simultaneous dancing and shedding of tears.

Undoubtedly, this delicate blend of groove and sentiment contributes to the song's enduring success on the charts. "Soso" remained in the Top 10 of the Top 100 charts for an impressive 21 out of its 26 weeks on the first half period of 2023. Additionally, it claimed the No. 1 spot on the Official Radio Chart and the Official Streaming Songs Chart. It is important to note that "soso" never reached No. 1 on the aggregate Official Nigeria Top 100. Furthermore, 'Boy Alone,' the album that features "Soso," has amassed a staggering 240 million on-demand streams in Nigeria since its release.

The seamless fusion of irresistible beats and heartfelt emotions is undeniably the secret behind "Soso's" dominance as the top song for the first half of 2023.

Want updates straight into your Inbox?

Enter your name and email to get the latest news from the TurnTable team, and in-depth knowledge into music and the numbers behind them.