BPM by genre
Afrobeats
105
BPM typical
Range: 100–118 BPM
Afrobeats (the modern West African pop sound, not Fela's 'Afrobeat') usually runs 100–118 BPM, with the mid-100s as the pocket. The groove is built on a log-drum-adjacent percussion bounce and a relaxed, syncopated feel.
Subgenres
| Subgenre | Typical | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Afrobeats (mainstream) | 107 | 100–115 |
| Afro-fusion / Afropop | 108 | 102–118 |
| Altu00e9 | 102 | 95–110 |
Production notes
Layer live-feel percussion (shakers, congas, rim clicks) over a simple kick pattern with a laid-back swing. Bass is melodic and bouncy. Keep arrangements airy with call-and-response vocals. The groove should feel relaxed, never rushed — pocket over power. Around 105–110 BPM is the safe zone.
Typical structure
Intro → pre-chorus → chorus (catchy, repetitive) → verse → chorus → bridge → chorus. Hook-forward and vibe-driven.
FAQ
How many BPM is Afrobeats?
Afrobeats typically runs 100u2013118 BPM, with the mid-100s (around 105u2013110) being most common.
Is Afrobeats the same as Amapiano?
No. Amapiano is a distinct South African style, usually slower at 108u2013115 BPM with log-drum basslines.
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