The song Let Me Be by Rwandan artist Elvin Cena has made history by reaching number one on the Billboard chart of the 50 most-played Afrobeat songs in the United States.
At just 21 years old, Elvin Cena becomes one of the few young African artists to achieve such global recognition. Although he has been making music since 2020, he struggled for years to break into the industry. However, this breakthrough track has now pushed him into the international spotlight.
AI-Powered Song Gains Global Attention
Currently based in France for his studies, Elvin Cena saw his song go viral, especially on YouTube. Interestingly, Let Me Be was produced using artificial intelligence (AI), making it even more unique in today’s music landscape.
At first, he released the song under the name “The Second Voice” because he did not want to be immediately associated with AI-generated music. Later, he revealed his identity and added his real name to the track.
First AI Song to Reach Number One
This achievement marks the first time an AI-assisted song has reached the top of the Billboard Afrobeat chart. As a result, Elvin Cena is not only making waves as an artist but also as part of a new wave of musicians exploring technology in music production.
Moreover, the success of Let Me Be shows how AI is beginning to influence the global music industry, opening doors for new creative possibilities.
Top Afrobeat Songs This Week
The rise of Let Me Be pushed Chanel by Tyla to second place, followed by her hit Water in third.
Meanwhile, Shake It To The Max (Fly) by Moliy, Skillibeng, Shenseea, and Slient Addy ranks fourth. Worship by Asake closes the top five.
Other songs in the top ten include I Am by Omah Lay, Jogodo by Wizkid and Asake, Big Bum Bum, Big Daddy by Tems, and Fine Ting.
These rankings reflect the most-played Afrobeat songs for the week ending May 9, 2026, with Billboard expected to release updated charts in the coming week.
