Tems and Wizkid: The Collab That Changed Everything
In the history of Afrobeats, there are certain moments that stand out — tracks so powerful they shake up the industry and elevate everyone involved. One of the biggest? "Essence" by Wizkid featuring Tems.
Released in 2020, this one song didn't just top charts — it launched Tems into global stardom, became a pop culture staple, and marked a new era for Nigerian music. So what made Wizkid and Tems’ collaboration so iconic? Why is Essence called "the song of the summer" by fans around the world?
Let’s break it down and explore how this powerful musical partnership changed everything.
🔥 The Birth of a Global Smash: “Essence”
“Essence” was released as part of Wizkid’s critically acclaimed album Made in Lagos in October 2020. At first, it was just another track among a star-studded lineup. But fans and critics quickly noticed something different about this one — it had soul.
The moment Tems’ voice hit that opening verse, the vibe shifted. Her rich, smoky vocals paired with Wizkid’s smooth delivery created an intoxicating blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul that felt like magic.
In an era dominated by hype music and dance tracks, “Essence” slowed things down, invited listeners to feel, and made space for vulnerability and desire in a fresh, authentic way.
🌍 Going Global: A Nigerian Song Heard Around the World
What started as a Nigerian hit soon spread like wildfire. By mid-2021, “Essence” became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, a historic milestone. And the impact didn’t stop there:
- Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 (after Justin Bieber joined the remix)
- Certified Platinum in the U.S.
- Named one of Barack Obama’s favorite songs of the year
- Received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Performance
- Played across radio stations, beach parties, fashion runways, and TikTok trends
“Essence” became the unofficial anthem of the summer—and Tems became a household name almost overnight.
👑 Tems: The Breakout Star of the Decade
Before “Essence,” Tems had a growing underground following in Nigeria thanks to tracks like “Try Me” and her debut EP For Broken Ears. But “Essence” was the spark that ignited her global career.
Fans were instantly captivated by her voice—deep, emotional, and different. She wasn’t just a feature; she was the soul of the song.
After the track’s success, Tems went on to:
- Feature on Drake’s album (Certified Lover Boy)
- Collaborate with Future and win a Grammy
- Co-write Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
- Appear on major magazine covers and global red carpets
- Launch her solo international tours
The Wizkid x Tems collab didn’t just boost a song—it launched a superstar.
🤝 Why the Wizkid x Tems Chemistry Worked So Well
There’s a reason this pairing worked so perfectly: chemistry.
Wizkid, with his soft-spoken yet charismatic style, brought the warmth and subtle energy. Tems delivered the raw emotion and vocal depth. Together, they created a sonic experience that felt both intimate and universal.
Unlike many features where artists seem forced together for marketing, this one felt organic, effortless, and authentic. It wasn’t just about star power — it was about two artists being in sync creatively.
🎶 The Justin Bieber Remix: Taking “Essence” Even Further
In August 2021, a surprise dropped: Justin Bieber joined the “Essence” remix, adding a fresh verse and introducing the track to an even wider pop audience.
This strategic move gave the song a second life, helping it break into Top 10 on the Billboard charts and boosting its performance on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
More importantly, it showed the world that Afrobeats was no longer niche—it was mainstream.
🌟 Cultural Impact: A Defining Moment for Afrobeats
Wizkid and Tems didn’t just make a hit. They made history.
“Essence” became:
- The first Nigerian song to crack Top 10 in the U.S.
- A turning point that brought Afrobeats to the forefront of global pop culture
- A case study in how collaborations can elevate entire genres
It also opened doors for other African artists. After its success, international labels began signing and promoting more African acts, including CKay, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Rema.
Tems and Wizkid made it clear: Africa wasn’t following the global music trend—it was leading it.
🧠 The Business Genius Behind the Collab
Wizkid has always had an eye for talent. By featuring Tems—then a rising indie artist—he did what many established stars avoid: He lifted a newcomer and let her shine.
It was a strategic move that paid off for both of them:
- Tems got global exposure
- Wizkid got a fresh sound and worldwide recognition
- The song gained critical acclaim and commercial success
It’s a textbook example of how collaboration and authenticity are stronger than ego in today’s music industry.
📈 What’s Next for Tems and Wizkid?
Both artists are thriving independently, but fans are eagerly waiting for another collab.
Tems is gearing up to release her debut studio album, and Wizkid continues to tour and evolve his sound. Rumors suggest they may reunite for a track or joint performance—and if it happens, it’ll definitely be a moment to remember.
Whether or not they collaborate again, one thing is certain:
Their chemistry changed the game once—and it could do it again.
💬 Final Thoughts: A Song That Made History
“Essence” wasn’t just a song. It was a cultural reset.
It brought Nigerian music to the center of global attention and reminded us all that collaboration, when done right, can be revolutionary.
Tems and Wizkid proved that African music doesn't need validation—it only needs a platform. And with “Essence,” they created one that will echo for years to come.
🔔 Stay Tuned for More Afrobeats Stories
Love this post? Don’t miss these:
💬 Top 10 Afrobeats Collabs of the Decade
💬 How Wizkid Conquered the Global Stage
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