Wizkid’s ‘‘Essence’’ Becomes First African Song To Be Certified Platinum, Hits Ninth On Billboard Hot 100

USA’s summer jam for 2021 -Essence- has received a Recording Industry Association of America, RIAA, gold certification as the hit song attained over 400,000 in sales in the US, Essence is now certified platinum.

Wizkid Made in Lagos Album cover

Upon receiving the plaque in Los Angeles, a thrilled Wizkid expressed his sincere gratitude to his fans. “This is wow to me! It feels like a dream. Thank you guys so much for supporting us. Thank you so much to the team for believing in the dream from early.”

Big Wiz also gave Tems a major shout-out “I love you baby girl you are special and you are a superstar. This is your time and moment and the world needs to hear this because it is special to me.”

In 2020, Wizkid became the first African artiste to be certified gold in the United States, after 500,000 units of ‘Come Closer’ were sold. ‘Come Closer’ has also been certified platinum and gold in the UK and Australia respectively in April.

Wizkid

The hit song “Essence” has also  moved up to number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.It made Wizkid the first African artist ever to have a song in the Top 10  Billboard charts.

Ademola Adejuwon

Written by BoomRadioNG