TL;DR:Wizkid and Tems’ chart-topping single “Essence” has reached 3× Platinum certification in New Zealand, indicating sales exceeding 90,000 units. First released in 2020 on the album “Made in Lagos,” the track has received global recognition, cementing its position as a milestone in Afrobeats music and elevating the artists’ international profiles.
The Rise of “Essence”
“Essence,” the partnership between Nigerian musicians Wizkid and Tems, continues to resonate internationally. As of July 17, 2025, the single has been awarded an impressive 3× Platinum certification in New Zealand, highlighting its vast popularity and commercial triumph. This accomplishment denotes more than 90,000 units sold, marking a noteworthy point in the song’s evolution since its launch in 2020.
The single featured in Wizkid’s highly praised album, “Made in Lagos,” which has been crucial in demonstrating the versatility and richness of Afrobeats. “Essence” distinguishes itself not just for its infectious melody but also for its profound emotional depth and expert production, blending Afrobeats and R&B elements that resonate with a wide range of listeners.
A Song of the Summer
In 2021, “Essence” was honored as the “song of the summer,” a designation that reflects its lively vibe and broad appeal. The song has been praised for its rich production and engaging vocals, which together forge an experience that transcends geographic limits. Critics and audiences have celebrated the track for its genuine nature and cultural importance, making it a fixture in playlists globally.
The song’s popularity soared with the launch of a remix featuring international icon Justin Bieber. This collaboration not only expanded its audience but also showcased the rising impact of Afrobeats in the worldwide music arena, introducing the genre to listeners who may have been previously unaware of it.
Cultural Impact and Global Reach
The 3× Platinum certification of “Essence” in New Zealand reinforces the song’s enduring influence and cultural relevance, especially in burgeoning markets. As Afrobeats continues to gain momentum internationally, this achievement signifies a crucial juncture in the acknowledgment of African music on a global scale. Wizkid and Tems have emerged as icons, representing a new generation of artists breaking barriers and redefining the music scene.
The triumph of “Essence” has not only enhanced Wizkid’s and Tems’ standings as prominent musical ambassadors from Africa but has also propelled the Afrobeats genre to new heights of recognition. Their collaborative synergy is a key driver of this transformation, exemplifying the strength of cross-cultural collaboration in contemporary music.
Afrobeats Goes East: The Genre’s Growing Appeal Across APAC and Beyond
Afrobeats is no longer confined to the dance floors of Lagos, London, or New York—its rhythm is now pulsing through the streets of Auckland, Tokyo, Jakarta, and Seoul. The 3× Platinum certification of Wizkid and Tems’ “Essence” in New Zealand (over 90,000 units sold) is a powerful indicator of Afrobeats’ expanding footprint in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and other non-Western international markets.
In South Korea, Afrobeats-inspired TikTok trends and DJ sets in Seoul’s vibrant Itaewon nightlife scene have gained traction, especially among Gen Z listeners. Japan has seen growing inclusion of Afrobeats on curated playlists from Spotify Japan and Apple Music Japan, where artists like Rema and Omah Lay are gaining steady traction. Rema’s “Calm Down” remix featuring Selena Gomez has made notable inroads, with strong YouTube viewership and Shazam activity from Southeast Asia. Similarly, Omah Lay’s soulful track “Understand” has been quietly building a fanbase across Indonesian and Malaysian streaming circles, appearing on regional viral charts.
In India, Burna Boy’s tracks have featured prominently on Apple Music India’s Top International Songs chart, signaling growing cross-cultural curiosity and a taste for Afrobeats’ percussive grooves. This uptake is further reinforced by streaming data: in 2022, Spotify reported a +550% increase in Afrobeats streams in the Philippines alone, highlighting surging regional interest. From viral dance challenges to international festival bookings, the genre’s infectious rhythms and crossover collaborations are proving that Afrobeats is not just global—it’s borderless.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As “Essence” continues to accumulate accolades and recognition, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of music. The song’s capacity to resonate with audiences from various cultures reflects the universality of its message and sound. With every achievement, Wizkid and Tems fortify their legacies as significant artists who have made vital contributions to the global music narrative.
Looking forward, prospects are bright for both artists. With the Afrobeats genre growing and evolving, endless opportunities for creativity and collaboration await. The sustained success of “Essence” paves the way for more innovative projects from Wizkid and Tems, as they continue to inspire a new generation of musicians and enthusiasts.
In summary, Wizkid and Tems’ “Essence” transcends being merely a song; it represents a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the spirit of modern music. Its recent 3× Platinum certification in New Zealand is not just a personal milestone for the artists but also a momentous occasion for the Afrobeats genre, demonstrating that exceptional music knows no boundaries.
