by Wilfred Okiche

In selecting our top 10 songs of the past year (December 2011- November 2012), a lot of factors were put into consideration. Quality of recording, popularity, radio airplay and downloads are just some of the parameters that helped us sift through the numerous singles released in 2012.

We present the last 10 standing. In ascending order.

10) Dami duro- Davido

The first true hit single of 2012, promoted in the thick of the fuel subsidy removal crisis is also the record that made Davido a star. It’s frentic, frenzied pacing and gibberish composition became an instant smash and a firm favourite among the young, wild and free.

9) Bottom belle- Omawumi Ft. Flavour

We admit, we have seen Omawumi lace better vocals and Flavour was sadly diluted to the inane kporokoto kporokoto prattle but this remake of the popular highlife classic has it’s positives, not least of which is the chemistry that the pairing of both stars’ peculiar music styles produced. It is 2012 and they got us singing about Bottom belle; we say it’s a music miracle.

8) Gaga crazy- Chuddy K

Chuddy K’s ever present ear worm burrowed it’s way into our lives and was so infectious, we didnt opt for a cure for all that craziness.

7) No away- Becca Ft. M.I.

Ghanaian star Becca and rapper M.I. blended effortlessly in this stirring and haunting ballad. Nowhere else this year was there such a seamless collaboration between two artistes, providing proof once again that the language of music is universal.

6) Jowo- Ebisan

Ebisan’s funky, uptempo ditty may be a torch song at heart but she infuses it with plenty of hope and laughter and charm. Accompanied by a zany, colourful video that was one of the year’s standouts, this one was simply irresistible.

5) Anamachikwanu- Ill Bliss Ft. Phyno

After some time off, Dat Ibo boy, Ill Bliss rebounded with one of the most powerful Hip hop tracks this side of the Niger. The menancing beat and unflinching chorus warned pretenders off his lane. Indeed, Oga Boss is back.

4) Great nation- Timi Dakolo

Timi Dakolo’s showstopper, off the premium edition of his ‘Beautiful noise’ album only serves to reinforce what we know already. He is the best damn vocalist working in West Africa today, and he has the Idol title to prove it! Listen to ‘Great nation’today and dare to be indifferent. We dare you.

3) Kukere- Iyanya

The most important dance floor track of the year may not make much sense beyond the addictive chorus but who cares? Iyanya became a household name and the Etighi dance along with him.

2) That stupid song- Bez Ft. Praiz

This year’s nostalgic trip down memory lane boasts a theme that is purely Nigerian, but it is so good, American music station BET decided to premiere it on their popular chart show. For bringing back fond memories and taking us places we might have never gone back to unaided, we say thank you Bez, thank you Praiz, thank you Cobhams.

1) Ara- Brymo

Truth be told, Brymo’s magnum opus was released late in 2011 but the video was dropped just in time for the new year and was for some, the perfect new year gift. The song’s influence has been unstoppable, reaching deep into 2012 and the best part is, it sounds fresh at each listen.

Do you agree with the list, did we leave any song out?

Wilfred Okiche tweets from @drwill20