Wizkid, one of Nigeria’s finest music exports, has done it again! He is now the first African artist to surpass 8 billion streams on Spotify. 

This achievement isn’t just about numbers—it’s a testament to the power of Afrobeat, global collaborations, and pure talent.

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Balogun, started his journey in Lagos, Nigeria. From singing in a local church choir to dropping his first hit single “Holla at Your Boy,” Wizkid has shown a knack for making music that resonates far beyond his roots. But how did a boy from Surulere become a global music icon with 8 billion streams?

Wizkid’s strategic approach to music

One of Wizkid’s greatest strengths is his ability to blend genres. Whether it’s Afrobeat, reggae, or pop, he creates songs that feel fresh yet familiar. His collaboration with Drake on One Dance was a game-changer. 

The track didn’t just dominate charts—it introduced millions to Wizkid’s sound. With over 2 billion streams, One Dance is not only his most-streamed song but also a global anthem that secured his spot in music history.

While many artists enjoy brief moments of fame, Wizkid has stayed relevant for over a decade. Albums like Made In Lagos show his growth as an artist. The deluxe version alone has close to a billion streams, proving that he knows how to keep fans coming back for more. 

With hits like Essence featuring Tems, he showed the world that Afrobeat isn’t just a genre—it’s a movement. Another reason for Wizkid’s success is his choice of collaborations. From Beyoncé to Chris Brown, and of course, Drake, he’s worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Each collaboration amplifies his reach, bringing new fans to his music.

Staying true to Afrobeat

Despite his global success, Wizkid never strays far from his Afrobeat roots. His music celebrates African culture, language, and rhythm. Songs like Ojuelegba and Joro show his deep connection to his heritage, making him a favorite not just in Nigeria but across the world.

Wizkid’s influence goes beyond music. He’s the most followed Afrobeats artist on Spotify, a platform where every follow and stream is a vote of confidence. By becoming the first African artist to hit 8 billion streams, he’s not just breaking records—he’s setting the stage for other African artists to shine.

The future of Wizkid

With Burna Boy trailing closely behind with 7.2 billion streams, the competition among Afrobeat stars is heating up. But Wizkid’s achievement proves one thing: the world is finally embracing African music. And as Afrobeat continues to grow, so will Wizkid’s legacy.

In the end, Wizkid’s 8 billion streams are more than just a number—they’re a symbol of how far African music has come. From Surulere to Spotify’s global charts, Wizkid’s journey inspires a new generation of artists to dream big and aim even higher.