Wizkid’s “Essence” Breaks YouTube Record 4 Years After Its Release: The Afrobeat Anthem That Took the World by Storm
Wizkid’s “Essence” Breaks YouTube Record 4 Years After Its Release: The Afrobeat Anthem That Took the World by Storm
In 2020, a song from Nigeria soared beyond cultural and geographical borders to become a global phenomenon. Wizkid’s “Essence” featuring Tems, initially a standout track on his “Made in Lagos” album, did more than just dominate music charts—it became a soundtrack for a movement, bridging the gap between Afrobeat and mainstream global music. Fast forward four years after its release, “Essence” has now reached another remarkable milestone: breaking a YouTube record, cementing its place as a timeless cultural masterpiece.
What is it about “Essence” that makes it so magnetic? How did it manage to break boundaries and records? In this article, we explore the rise of this global anthem, the impact it had on Afrobeat, and how it continues to make history years after its release.
In the crowded Nigerian music scene, collaborations are common, but rarely do they hit like “Essence.” Wizkid, an Afrobeat heavyweight, and Tems, a rising star with a distinctive voice, combined their unique sounds to create something magical. Released as part of Wizkid’s critically acclaimed Made in Lagos album, “Essence” was originally not intended to be the centerpiece of the project.
However, from its release, it was clear this song was something special. The synergy between Wizkid’s silky smooth delivery and Tems’ soulful and rich vocals was undeniable. The song’s mellow Afrobeat rhythms blended with elements of R&B, creating a cross-genre appeal that attracted listeners from all corners of the globe. It was the kind of track that resonated with both Nigerian fans and international audiences.
But it wasn’t just the chemistry between the two artists that made the track a success—it was also the messaging. “Essence” speaks of desire, love, and emotional connection in a way that feels both universal and deeply personal. Whether you’re in Lagos or Los Angeles, the song touches a chord with its relatable themes of romance and intimacy.
“Essence” might have started as a hidden gem on Made in Lagos, but it didn’t stay hidden for long. Within months of its release, the track began to take on a life of its own, thanks in large part to social media. TikTok and Instagram saw a flood of users making videos set to the track, and it quickly became a viral sensation.
Streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music also played a crucial role. As the song gained popularity, playlists dedicated to Afrobeat and global music started featuring “Essence” prominently, and more listeners were exposed to the track. By the summer of 2021, it was virtually impossible to escape the reach of the song. Whether you were at a beach party, scrolling through social media, or relaxing at home, “Essence” seemed to be everywhere.
This viral momentum was further propelled by endorsements from celebrities and influential figures. The likes of Kylie Jenner, Kevin Hart, and even former US President Barack Obama were seen vibing to the track, turning it into an anthem for A-listers and regular listeners alike.
Just when it seemed like “Essence” had reached its peak, Wizkid delivered another game-changer—a remix featuring none other than global pop sensation Justin Bieber. Released in August 2021, the remix propelled the song even further into the global spotlight.
Justin Bieber’s inclusion wasn’t just a marketing move; his vocals added a new dimension to the song, giving it an even broader appeal in Western markets. Bieber himself called the track “the song of the summer,” and his massive fan base flocked to listen to the Afrobeat anthem.
The remix saw “Essence” reach new heights on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at an impressive No. 9. It was a milestone not just for Wizkid, but for Afrobeat as a whole. For the first time, an Afrobeat song had become a certified global hit, further solidifying the genre’s place on the international stage.
The success of “Essence” wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about breaking down barriers. For years, Afrobeat had been building momentum, with artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Tiwa Savage pushing the genre forward. But “Essence” took Afrobeat where it had never been before—right into the heart of global popular culture.
The song’s success marked a turning point, not just for Wizkid, but for the entire Afrobeat movement. It demonstrated that African artists could not only participate in the global music industry, but they could also dominate it. “Essence” was more than just a hit song; it was a statement. It showed that the world was ready to embrace African music in all its glory.
Wizkid’s success with “Essence” paved the way for future Afrobeat stars, and today, the genre is one of the fastest-growing in the world. Artists like Tems, Rema, and Ayra Starr are continuing the legacy, pushing Afrobeat further into mainstream consciousness.
Now, four years after its release, “Essence” has reached another major milestone by breaking a YouTube record. The music video, which features beautiful visuals of Lagos and showcases the effortless chemistry between Wizkid and Tems, has surpassed an impressive 200 million views.
This achievement speaks volumes about the longevity of the track. In an industry where songs often come and go in the blink of an eye, “Essence” has stood the test of time. Its continued popularity on platforms like YouTube is a testament to its universal appeal and cultural significance.
The fact that the song is still breaking records years after its release shows just how powerful it is. “Essence” isn’t just a momentary hit—it’s a lasting anthem that will be remembered for years to come.
As “Essence” continues to make waves, it’s clear that the song has transcended the label of “hit” and moved into the realm of “classic.” Wizkid has not only solidified his place as one of the greatest Afrobeat artists of all time, but he has also played a key role in taking the genre to new heights on the global stage.
What’s next for Wizkid? As one of the leading voices in the Afrobeat movement, his influence shows no signs of waning. With every new project, he continues to push boundaries and expand the reach of African music.
“Essence” may have broken a YouTube record four years after its release, but its real legacy is much larger than a streaming milestone. It’s a song that brought the world together, a track that symbolizes the rise of Afrobeat, and a cultural milestone that will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
In the end, “Essence” is not just Wizkid’s success—it’s a triumph for African music as a whole. And its story is far from over.
