Wizkid‘s “Essence,” a track on his album “Made In Lagos,” has earned a 4X RIAA platinum plaque, cementing its place as one of the biggest Afrobeats songs to hit the international scene.
Not only did it enjoy massive popularity worldwide, but it also raked in huge sales in the US, exceeding 4 million units and earning the prestigious 4X RIAA platinum plaque. This achievement is even more impressive considering its 2020 release.
The song’s success wasn’t limited to sales. It reached a peak of No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, partly thanks to a remix featuring Justin Bieber. It even received high praise from industry giants like Kanye West, who called it the “greatest song in the history of music.”
“Essence” also played a pivotal role in launching Tems’ career into the spotlight. Following her involvement in the song, she became the first Nigerian female artist to debut on the Billboard Hot 100 and even bagged a No. 1 spot through her feature on Future’s “Wait For U.” This feat made her both the first Nigerian artist and the first Nigerian female artist to win a Grammy award.
So, “Essence” wasn’t just a hit song; it was a cultural phenomenon that propelled both Wizkid and Tems to new heights, leaving a lasting mark on the global music scene.