Nigerian music stars Wizkid and Tems have earned global recognition as their 2020 hit song Essence was ranked No. 22 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far.
The American entertainment magazine released the list on Tuesday, celebrating songs that have defined music and culture since the year 2000. Essence, featured on Wizkid’s acclaimed album Made in Lagos, was praised for its soulful blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and global appeal that helped introduce Nigerian music to new audiences worldwide.
Rolling Stone described Essence as “a shimmering masterpiece that bridged continents and redefined pop’s global sound,” noting that the collaboration between Wizkid and Tems “captured a moment when African music truly went mainstream.”
The publication highlighted the song’s impact on international charts, its remix with Canadian pop star Justin Bieber, and its role in solidifying Afrobeats as a dominant force in global music.
“Essence was not just a hit — it was a movement,” Rolling Stone wrote. “The chemistry between Wizkid and Tems radiated beyond genres, creating a sound that felt both intimate and universal.”
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Released in October 2020, Essence became the first Nigerian song in history to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and later peaked at No. 9 after the Bieber-assisted remix. The song also received nominations at the Grammy Awards and BET Awards, cementing its place in global pop culture.
Fans and industry colleagues have since flooded social media with congratulatory messages for Wizkid and Tems, celebrating what many call “a win for Afrobeats and African music.”
Music analysts say the recognition underscores the genre’s growing influence and the role of Nigerian artists in shaping global music trends.
“This is more than just an award; it’s a statement about how far Nigerian music has come,” said Lagos-based music critic Segun Alabi. “Wizkid and Tems showed the world that African creativity can set global standards.”
Other notable songs on the Rolling Stone list include hits by Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Adele, and Rihanna. Essence stood out as one of the few African songs to make the top 30, reflecting its broad international acclaim.
Tems, who co-wrote and performed on the track, has since gone on to collaborate with global stars such as Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, further establishing herself as one of Africa’s most influential voices.
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Balogun, remains one of Africa’s biggest exports, with multiple awards, sold-out international tours, and millions of global fans.
With this latest recognition, Essence continues to reaffirm its legacy as one of the defining songs of the 21st century a track that not only elevated Nigerian music but also redefined the global soundscape.