According to music analytics platform @Chartdata, every song on Afrobeats superstar Wizkid’s Made in Lagos album, including collaborations with Jamaica’s Damian Marley and Projexx, has sold at over 100,000 units each in the United States, cementing its place as one of the greatest African albums of all time. The feat underscores the global reach of Wizkid’s music and the enduring appeal of Afrobeats across international audiences. From the infectious rhythms to its star-studded features, Made in Lagos has proven itself as a generational work that resonates far beyond the African continent.
At the heart of the album’s phenomenal success is the track “Essence” featuring Tems, which has become a cultural phenomenon. The song has earned 5× Platinum certification in the U.S., making it the highest-selling track on the album. “Essence” not only dominated streaming platforms but also made history as the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Global 200, peaking at number nine on the Hot 100. Its remix featuring Justin Bieber further amplified its global impact, introducing the song to new audiences around the world.
Made in Lagos boasts a lineup of collaborations that span the globe, blending Afrobeats with elements of reggae, R&B, and soul. The album features contributions from Burna Boy, Skepta, H.E.R., Ella Mai, Tay Iwar, Projexx, Damian Marley, Terri, Buju, and Justin Bieber, highlighting Wizkid’s ability to bridge genres and cultures. Tracks like “True Love” with Tay Iwar and Projexx, and “Blessed” featuring Damian Marley, exemplify the album’s fusion of Afrobeat and reggae, giving it a distinct, cross-cultural sound.
The album’s critical acclaim and commercial performance have been recognised internationally. Released on 30 October 2020, with a deluxe edition following on 27 August 2021, Made in Lagos received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. Singles like “Smile” with H.E.R. and “No Stress” further strengthened the album’s appeal, with “Smile” being featured on Barack Obama’s 2020 summer playlist—a testament to its wide-reaching influence.
Globally, Made in Lagos has achieved numerous certifications, including Gold in the U.S., UK, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, Netherlands, and New Zealand, alongside 5× Platinum in Nigeria. These milestones reflect not only commercial success but also the cultural significance of Wizkid’s work, solidifying his position as a leading ambassador of African music on the world stage. As every song continues to thrive internationally, Made in Lagos stands as a blueprint for Afrobeats’ ascent into mainstream global music, proving that Wizkid is truly a global icon.
