Nigerian music sensation Wizkid has achieved a historic milestone as the first African artist to surpass an astounding 8 billion streams on Spotify.
This incredible achievement solidifies his position as a global icon and a trailblazer for African music on the world stage. These streams represent a combination of both his solo works and collaborations, showcasing the immense appeal of his artistry across diverse audiences and genres. Wizkid’s ability to captivate listeners worldwide with his unique Afrobeat sound has played a significant role in popularizing the genre internationally.
One of the most notable contributors to Wizkid’s streaming success is his 2016 collaboration with Canadian superstar Drake on the global hit “One Dance.” The song, which features Wizkid’s distinctive Afrobeat influence, remains his most streamed track on the platform, with over 2 billion streams.
“One Dance” not only brought Afrobeat to mainstream global audiences but also made history as the first single to hit 1 billion streams on Spotify, earning it a Guinness World Record. This monumental track continues to be celebrated as a game-changer in music, cementing Wizkid’s legacy as a pioneer in crossing cultural and musical boundaries.
Wizkid’s fourth studio album, Made in Lagos (Deluxe Edition), stands out as his most streamed album on Spotify, amassing nearly 1 billion streams. Released in 2021, the album features hits like “Essence” featuring Tems, which further propelled Afrobeat into the global spotlight.
Made in Lagos has been hailed as a masterpiece, blending Afrobeat with elements of R&B and soul to create a rich, immersive listening experience. Its success underscores Wizkid’s ability to craft music that resonates deeply with both his core fans and new listeners worldwide.
Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian artist Burna Boy has also made remarkable strides on Spotify, amassing an impressive 7.2 billion streams. This achievement places him as the second most-streamed African artist on the platform, further highlighting the growing influence of African music on the global stage.
Known for his fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, and pop, Burna Boy continues to build a legacy of his own, with hits like “Last Last” and critically acclaimed albums like Love, Damini contributing significantly to his streaming success.
Notably, Burna Boy holds the title of the most-followed Afrobeats artist on Spotify, reflecting his strong fanbase and global reach. Together, Wizkid and Burna Boy exemplify the immense potential and impact of African artists in the global music industry.
Their achievements not only elevate Afrobeat but also inspire a new generation of musicians to dream big and embrace the power of their cultural roots. These milestones mark a transformative era for African music, celebrating its boundless creativity and influence on the world stage.
