Wizkid and Tems Make History with Rolling Stone Ranking

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Wizkid

Afrobeats continues to break global barriers, and this time, it’s another major win for Nigeria’s music scene. Wizkid and Tems’ global hit Essence has officially been ranked among Rolling Stone’s “100 Best Songs of the 21st Century.” The chart-topping track sits proudly at No. 22 on the list, cementing its place as one of the defining sounds of this generation.

Originally released in 2020 as part of Wizkid’s Made in Lagos album, Essence became a cultural anthem that crossed borders. Its smooth blend of Afrobeats and R&B, paired with Tems’ soulful vocals and Wizkid’s calm delivery, made it a global sensation. The song later got a remix featuring Justin Bieber, further boosting its worldwide appeal.

Rolling Stone praised Essence for its irresistible vibe, calling it a “sun-drenched global breakthrough” that helped push Afrobeats deeper into mainstream music. The recognition places Wizkid and Tems in the same league as international icons like Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Rihanna, who also made the list.

Fans around the world have flooded social media with congratulations, hailing this as a proud moment for African music. The song’s success continues to highlight Afrobeats’ dominance on the global stage and its growing influence in shaping contemporary pop culture.

This milestone adds another feather to Wizkid and Tems’ caps, proving once again that Nigerian music isn’t just trending — it’s making history.

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