Wizkid Makes History as First African Artist to Surpass 100 Million Shazams

Afrobeats global sensation Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has achieved another historic milestone, becoming the first African artiste to surpass 100 million searches on the music recognition platform Shazam.

The accomplishment reinforces Wizkid’s enduring global influence, with hits such as Ojuelegba, Essence, and Come Closer continuing to connect with audiences worldwide.

Wizkid, a key figure in Afrobeats’ international rise, first gained global attention through his collaboration with Drake on One Dance. His acclaimed album Made in Lagos and its breakout single Essence featuring Tems further solidified his place among the world’s leading music acts.

The year 2025 has been particularly remarkable for the star. His latest album, Morayo a tribute to his late mother broke multiple streaming records, earning Global Album of the Year at the African Arts and Entertainment Awards (AAEA). The album’s lead single, Kese, set a record for the largest single-day streaming debut by an African artist.

Wizkid also received major recognition this year with NAACP Image Award and African Entertainment Awards USA wins, as well as Grammy recognition for his contribution to One Love, which won Best Reggae Album. He is currently nominated for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.

Additionally, his documentary, Wizkid: Long Live Lagos, premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, chronicling his artistic journey and cultural impact.