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Tag: Wizkid

  • Long Live Lagos: A celebration of African music heritage

    Wizkid’s documentary Wizkid: Long Live Lagos recently premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, offering a celebration of his extraordinary journey from the neighbourhoods of Lagos to becoming a global icon.

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    This isn’t just another music documentary—it’s a cultural milestone, spotlighting not just the artist but the challenges and creativity of Nigerian youth. Directed by Karam Gill, the film promises to be an intimate, powerful look into both Wizkid’s personal evolution and his larger impact on how Africa is heard and seen worldwide.

    Born Ayodeji Balogun in the Surulere neighborhood of Lagos, Wizkid’s early life was humble and rooted in the city’s hustle. His breakout came after he was signed by Banky W to Empire Mates Entertainment. He dropped hits like “Holla at Your Boy” and “Azonto”—the latter not only soared on charts but also introduced Ghana’s Azonto dance to a new wave of fans.

    Wizkid helped shift Afrobeats from a local phenomenon to a global juggernaut. His 2011 album Superstar wove together R&B, dancehall, and Afro-fusion, while subsequent releases like Made in Lagos propelled the genre into international playlists. Critics and fans alike credit him as one of the trailblazers who changed the world’s perception of African music, and with a trophy cabinet that speaks volumes: Grammys, AMAs, VMAs, BETs, Billboard awards… he’s pulled them all in. His feature on Drake’s “One Dance” shattered Spotify’s billion-stream mark. He became the first African artist to secure a million X/Twitter followers, multi-million-dollar endorsement deals, and the first-ever headlining performances in venues once closed to African artists.

    Collaborations with global superstars like Chris Brown, Major Lazer, Justin Bieber, and Beyoncé elevated Wizkid’s reach—and by extension, Afrobeats—to unmatched levels. These cross-cultural tracks flipped listener expectations, showing that African grooves could find harmony in the charts of New York, London, Tokyo, and beyond.
    His music isn’t just sold—it’s felt, everywhere.

     

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    The Tribeca documentary “Long Live Lagos” is a dual celebration: of Wizkid’s life and of a generation shaped by Lagos’s energy.

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    Tribeca’s selection of “Long Live Lagos” in their prestigious lineup sends a message: African stories are global stories. The live Q&A with Karam Gill and Wizkid reinforces that this is more than a music tale—it’s a cultural turning point. Having his film featured at Tribeca sends a clear message: African stories are important, and people around the world are paying attention.

    Wizkid isn’t slowing down. Whether it’s new music, tours, or more storytelling, he’s still in the game. And the world is watching. Wizkid made it from Lagos to the world, and he brought Afrobeats with him. His story is one of hard work, smart moves, and always putting his city first.

  • Watch Wizkid celebrate beauty, heritage and cultural pride in self-directed music video ‘Kese (Dance)’

    Wizkid, one of the world’s highly-revered African icons, has unveiled the music video for his latest single, ‘Kese (Dance)’, offering his loyal fans a visual feast that complements the track’s infectious rhythm. This self-directed video, released on March 5, 2025, showcases Wizkid’s multifaceted artistry, blending dynamic dance sequences with rich cultural symbolism.

    The video unfolds across three distinct settings, each highlighting a unique aspect of the song’s vibrant energy. It opens in a dimly lit theatre, where a troupe of dancers rehearses intricate choreography under Wizkid’s attentive gaze, reflecting his commitment to artistic excellence. The scene then transitions to an intimate house party, capturing the communal joy and spontaneity that are hallmarks of Afrobeats culture. Here, Wizkid mingles effortlessly with attendees, embodying the music’s unifying and uplifting spirit. The final segment presents a striking tableau in an art gallery, where Wizkid stands alongside elegantly dressed Black models before a grand painting, celebrating beauty, heritage, and cultural pride.

    ‘Kese (Dance)’ is a standout track from Wizkid’s sixth studio album, ‘Morayo’, released in November 2024. The album serves as a heartfelt tribute to his late mother and features collaborations with his fellow artists such as Asake, Anaïs Cardot, Brent Faiyaz, Jazmine Sullivan, and Tiakola. The song melds Wizkid’s early sound with the refined style of ‘Made in Lagos’, creating a track for dominating dance floors worldwide.

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    The video has garnered widespread acclaim for its aesthetic brilliance and cultural depth. Wizkid’s fan club and music fans alike have lauded the seamless integration of choreographed dance routines, Wizkid’s sartorial elegance, and the celebration of Black womanhood. The visual narrative underscores the song’s themes of joy and unity, resonating deeply with audiences.

    Upon its release, the ‘Kese (Dance)’ video quickly became a trending topic on social media platforms, amassing over 500,000 views within hours. This overwhelming response underscores Wizkid’s enduring influence in the global music scene and his ability to connect with fans through innovative artistry.

    In conjunction with the video’s release, Wizkid announced his upcoming ‘Morayo’ tour, set to commence in May 2025. The tour will feature performances at major European venues, including Berlin’s Velodrome Arena, Rotterdam’s Ahoy RTM Stage, and Paris’ Accor Arena, promising fans an immersive live experience that encapsulates the essence of his latest work.

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    With the ‘Kese (Dance)’ video, Wizkid not only reinforces his status as a leading figure in Afrobeats (or Afropop space) but also as a visionary artist who continues to push creative boundaries. The video’s rich imagery and cultural celebration offer a profound visual companion to a track that has already captivated audiences worldwide.

    For those eager to experience the vibrant visuals of ‘Kese (Dance)’, the official music video is available below for your enjoyment.

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  • Wizkid releases sixth studio album ‘Morayo’, dedicated to his late mother

    Today, Wizkid released his eagerly-anticipated sixth studio album ‘Morayo’. On the sixteen-track album, the Nigerian superstar doesn’t change course in his sound much and brings new faces to the fold (French rapper Tiakola and French and Gabonese singer-songwriter Anaïs Cardot). Regarding the project, the cut with Brent Faiyaz has to be my favourite track because it exists in its universe. Therefore, I wouldn’t mind hearing a joint EP with the two artists in this lifetime.

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    For context (for anyone unfamiliar), Wizkid’s beloved mother passed away in 2023. According to the description on Apple Music, this album is a tribute to the woman who gave birth to one of the world’s exceptional African entertainers.

  • Wizkid: A Strong Contender for the 67th GRAMMY Awards Nominations

    As the 67th GRAMMY Awards draw closer, there’s increasing speculation that his latest single, ‘Piece of My Heart,’ featuring American artist Brent Faiyaz from his upcoming MORAYO album, could secure a prestigious nomination. Known for his GRAMMY-nominated work and an impressive discography that has shaped the global music landscape, Wizkid’s potential nod at the 67th GRAMMYs would not only affirm his artistry but also further cement Afrobeats’ place on the world stage.

    Wizkid’s GRAMMY Legacy and Past Success

    Wizkid is no stranger to GRAMMY recognition. He earned his first GRAMMY nomination in 2020 for ‘Brown Skin Girl,’  a collaboration with Beyoncé, which won Best Music Video. His acclaimed ‘Made in Lagos’ album also made waves worldwide, generating critical and popular acclaim that significantly boosted Afrobeats on a global scale. For Wizkid, the GRAMMYs have become a significant marker of his career milestones and an international affirmation of his contributions to music. His history with the Recording Academy suggests that ‘Piece of My Heart’ could indeed be a serious contender in several categories.

    The Significance of ‘Piece of My Heart’ as a Single

    Released as a preview of the much-anticipated ‘MORAYO’ album, ‘Piece of My Heart’ has quickly garnered attention for its heartfelt lyrics, smooth beats, and distinctive fusion of Wizkid’s Afrobeats style with elements of R&B and neo-soul, thanks to Brent Faiyaz’s contribution. The song encapsulates themes of love, yearning, and the complexity of relationships, which resonate universally. Its lyrical depth combined with an accessible beat gives ‘Piece of My Heart’ a broad appeal, making it a song that has the potential to connect with GRAMMY voters.

    Collaborating with Brent Faiyaz: A Perfect Blend

    Brent Faiyaz brings his own artistry and unique vocal textures to ‘Piece of My Heart.’ Known for his introspective lyrics and mellow tones, Faiyaz complements Wizkid’s rhythmically driven style, creating a harmony that feels both innovative and seamless. The collaboration is a strategic blend of R&B’s intimacy with Afrobeats’ dynamic energy, potentially appealing to a diverse audience, including GRAMMY voters who appreciate cross-genre innovation. Their partnership elevates the single’s appeal and positions it as a strong candidate for categories such as Best Global Music Performance or Best R&B Performance.

     

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    The Impact of MORAYO Album in the Global Music Scene

    Morayo, Wizkid’s new album, is shaping up to be another remarkable addition to his discography, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats into new sonic territories. Early reactions to the album indicate a fusion of multiple genres that highlight Wizkid’s versatility. The album, with ‘Piece of My Heart’ as a leading single, may find itself competing in multiple GRAMMY categories, not only for individual tracks but potentially for the entire album.

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    Why ‘Piece of My Heart’ Stands Out for the GRAMMYs

    ‘Piece of My Heart’ distinguishes itself with its sophisticated production, skillful instrumentation, and emotive lyrics. The song’s depth and relatability speak to the universal theme of love’s complexities, a factor that often resonates with the GRAMMY audience. Produced with a meticulous blend of contemporary sounds and African rhythms, the song demonstrates Wizkid’s ability to innovate while staying true to his roots. This balance of innovation and authenticity aligns well with GRAMMY standards, making ‘Piece of My Heart’ a fitting candidate for recognition.

    Afrobeats’ Growing Presence on the GRAMMY Stage

    The rise of Afrobeats over recent years is a testament to the genre’s global appeal, with artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Tems making waves internationally. This growing acceptance has paved the way for Afrobeats to be acknowledged in the world’s top music awards. Wizkid, as one of the genre’s most celebrated ambassadors, has been instrumental in building this momentum. A GRAMMY nomination for ‘Piece of My Heart’ would not only be a personal achievement but a victory for Afrobeats as a genre, representing its evolution and increasing influence on global music.

    ‘Piece of My Heart’ in the Context of Modern Afrobeats

    With its compelling rhythm and distinct sound, ‘Piece of My Heart’ represents the modern face of Afrobeats. The track incorporates a refined Afrobeats style that is both rich in traditional elements and accessible to international listeners. By marrying Afrocentric melodies with mainstream appeal, Wizkid and Faiyaz have created a song that captures the heart of contemporary African music, making it a viable contender for Best Global Music Performance.

    Critical Reception of ‘Piece of My Heart’ and MORAYO

    Since its release, ‘Piece of My Heart’ has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from fans and critics alike. Wizkid and Brent Faiyaz’s ‘Piece of My Heart’ broke the all-time record for most single-day streams for any song in Spotify Nigeria history (1.016 million). Many have praised its polished production, powerful lyrics, and the seamless chemistry between Wizkid and Faiyaz. Such acclaim increases the track’s visibility and chances for GRAMMY consideration, as positive critical reception often influences the Recording Academy’s decisions.

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    Potential GRAMMY Categories for ‘Piece of My Heart’

    The song’s unique attributes position it well for several GRAMMY categories, including:

    – Best Global Music Performance: Recognizing its powerful blend of African and R&B influences.

    – Best African Music Performance: Wizkid’s discography has earned him a spot as a top contender.

    – Record of the Year or Song of the Year: Considering its popularity and crossover appeal.
    – Best Pop Duo/Group Performance: Recognizing the collaboration between Wizkid and Brent Faiyaz.

    Each of these categories aligns with the song’s qualities and reflects the growing acceptance of Afrocentric music on the global stage.

    As a pioneer in globalizing Afrobeats, Wizkid’s success story has inspired countless artists from Africa and beyond to explore international collaborations. His influence has encouraged a new generation of musicians to push creative boundaries and bring African music to new audiences.

    Challenges in Securing a GRAMMY Nomination:

    While ‘Piece of My Heart’ has considerable strengths, it will face competition from numerous entries across different genres. Additionally, Afrobeats, though popular, is still emerging on the GRAMMY radar. These factors present potential challenges but make a GRAMMY win all the more meaningful.

    As anticipation builds for the 67th GRAMMY Awards, ‘Piece of My Heart’ emerges as a strong candidate for nomination. With its unique fusion of Afrobeats and R&B, universal themes, and an inspiring collaboration, Wizkid’s latest single is more than just a song—it’s a testament to the global influence of African music. Wizkid’s journey to the GRAMMYs is a story of cultural fusion, resilience, and innovation, qualities that make ‘Piece of My Heart’ a track deserving of GRAMMY recognition.

     

    FAQs

    1. Has Wizkid won a GRAMMY before?
    Yes, Wizkid won a GRAMMY in 2020 for his work on ‘Brown Skin Girl’ with Beyoncé.

    2. What genre does ‘Piece of My Heart’ fall under?
    The song blends Afrobeats with R&B, combining elements of both genres for a distinctive sound.

    3. Who is Brent Faiyaz, and what is his role in the song?
    Brent Faiyaz is an American R&B artist known for his soulful music, and he adds a unique vocal texture to ‘Piece of My Heart.’

    4. What makes MORAYO a standout album?
    MORAYO is a genre-blending album that showcases Wizkid’s versatility and captures a modern fusion of African and Western sounds.

    5. How does ‘Piece of My Heart’ reflect Wizkid’s growth as an artist?
    The song reflects his growth by combining deep lyrical themes with a polished, international sound, showcasing Wizkid’s development and innovation.