Nigerian singer and producer Pheelz has reached a new milestone in his career as his 2022 hit single Finesse featuring BNXN has officially been certified Gold in the United States by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The achievement marks a significant moment for Pheelz, solidifying his status as one of Afrobeats’ leading voices on the global stage. Since its release, Finesse has captivated audiences worldwide with its infectious rhythm, catchy lyrics, and smooth production.
The song’s success in the U.S. was fueled by its impressive chart performance, securing spots on the Billboard Global 200 and U.S. Afrobeats Songs charts. Its popularity skyrocketed after a snippet of the track went viral on TikTok, sparking the #FolakeChallenge and amplifying the song’s reach.
The track has since amassed over 180 million streams on Spotify alone, a testament to its enduring appeal. Pheelz also had the opportunity to perform Finesse at the 2022 BET Awards Red Carpet, further cementing his reputation as an international star.
Following Finesse, Pheelz continued his musical journey with the release of his 2023 EP Pheelz Good, which featured additional hit songs like Electricity featuring Davido and Stand By You.
The project showcased his versatility, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and pop influences while reinforcing his ability to craft songs that resonate with a global audience. His seamless transition from a producer to a full-fledged artist has been marked by an impressive streak of successful releases.
Pheelz’s journey to stardom began long before his solo breakout. Having produced chart-topping hits for Afrobeats heavyweights like Olamide, Fireboy DML, and Davido, he established himself as a force in the industry.
His evolution into a singer-songwriter has only expanded his creative reach, allowing him to further push the boundaries of the Afrobeats genre. His music consistently blends intricate production with relatable storytelling, making him one of the genre’s most consistent hitmakers.
The momentum has carried into 2024, with Pheelz releasing Pheelz Good (Triibe Tape), a follow-up to his previous EP. He also made waves internationally by collaborating with R&B icon Usher, co-writing, producing, and featuring on the song Ruin, which earned him a nomination for Best Afrobeats at the 2024 MTV VMAs.
As his career continues to soar, Pheelz remains a pivotal figure in the global expansion of Afrobeats, proving that his artistry extends far beyond the borders of Nigeria.
