Wizkid’s fourth studio album, Made in Lagos, continues its awe-inspiring journey, cementing its place in music history as an emblem of African excellence.
As of January 2025, the groundbreaking album has re-entered the Billboard World Albums chart at No. 24, extending its reign to an unprecedented six consecutive years—a record no African artist has ever achieved.
Released on October 30, 2020, Made in Lagos instantly captured the hearts of fans worldwide with its seamless fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and global rhythms. The album debuted at No. 15 on the UK Albums Chart and made waves on the US Billboard 200 at No. 80, with over 10,000 album-equivalent units sold in its first week. Its deluxe edition, launched in August 2021, pushed the album’s prominence further, peaking at No. 28 on the US Billboard 200 and adding even more depth to an already stellar track list.
The album’s enduring legacy owes much to its crown jewel, “Essence,” a soulful collaboration with Tems. The hit single shattered boundaries, becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Global 200. With a remix featuring Justin Bieber, it soared to No. 9 on the Hot 100, marking a milestone as the highest-charting Afrobeats song of its time.
In 2022, Made in Lagos broke another barrier, becoming the first African album to be certified Gold in the United States by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying over 500,000 units sold. This milestone underscored the album’s universal appeal and its role in paving the way for African artists on the global stage.
Beyond accolades and chart records, Made in Lagos stands as a cultural phenomenon. Its influence has been pivotal in elevating Afrobeats to a global audience, introducing millions to the richness of Nigerian music. Wizkid’s artistry and vision have solidified his reputation as a trailblazer, not just for African music but for global pop culture.
With its timeless melodies and global resonance, Made in Lagos remains a testament to the power of African creativity, proving that music knows no borders and excellence speaks a universal language.
