This Valentine’s season, heartbreak is the soundtrack of love in Kenya. According to Spotify Africa, heartbreak songs have taken over the airwaves, marking a sharp shift from previous years when love ballads dominated the playlists. With a 189% increase in heartbreak track streams over the past three years, it seems Kenyans are finding solace in sad melodies rather than sweet serenades.
Topping the heartbreak charts is Tate McRae’s “You Broke Me First”, which became Kenya’s ultimate heartbreak anthem in 2024. The song, originally released in 2020, continues to strike a chord with listeners.
Additionally, male artists are also leading the wave of heartbreak comfort, with hits like “Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi and “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur among the top streamed tracks in Kenya.
Spotify’s data highlights a notable shift in Valentine’s Day trends.
“In 2024, Qing Madi’s “American Love” was Kenya’s top Valentine’s song, celebrating love and connection. Just a year later, heartbreak anthems are dominating,” the report says.
This year, Billie Eilish is holding it down with three entries in the top 10: “Lovely”, “What Was I Made For?”, and “When the Party is Over”.
Newly released data also shows that 11 AM is the peak streaming hour. Given the data, Spotify has created a playlist dubbed “End In Tears” to soothe wounded hearts.
“Whether it’s the weight of unsent “good morning babe” texts, the sudden realisation that love isn’t what it used to be, or just the morning blues hitting extra hard, one thing is clear: 11 AM is heartbreak o’clock in Kenya,” Spotify’s report continues.
Regardless, the streaming service has also curated a love playlist called “100 Best African Love Songs” to celebrate Valentine’s.
