Top 3 Wizkid Albums of All Time
Wizkid, also known as Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, has cemented his place as one of Africa’s most influential and successful music artists. From blending Afrobeats with global sounds to setting trends on the international stage, Wizkid has consistently delivered chart-topping hits and albums that have shaped the African music landscape. Below, we dive into the top three Wizkid albums that have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
1. “Made in Lagos” (2020)
Why it stands out:
“Made in Lagos” is arguably the most defining album of Wizkid’s career. Released in 2020, this 14-track album elevated him to global superstardom, winning him recognition on a scale few African artists have achieved. The project masterfully blends Afrobeats, reggae, and R&B influences, creating a smooth and polished sound that appeals to both African and international audiences.
Key tracks:
• Essence (feat. Tems): A global sensation, this track became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Tems’ haunting vocals alongside Wizkid’s smooth delivery made “Essence” a cultural anthem.
• Ginger (feat. Burna Boy): A standout track featuring Burna Boy, this song highlights the synergy between two of Africa’s biggest stars.
• Reckless: Opening the album with a mellow but powerful track, “Reckless” sets the tone for the effortless vibe of the entire album.
Impact:
“Made in Lagos” broke multiple streaming records and garnered critical acclaim, including Grammy nominations. Its success confirmed Wizkid’s ability to transcend borders, with “Essence” gaining recognition as the song of the summer in 2021, even leading to a remix featuring Justin Bieber.
2. “Ayo” (2014)
Why it stands out:
Wizkid’s sophomore album Ayo was a celebration of his Afrobeats roots. Released in 2014, the album showcased his growth as an artist while staying true to his Nigerian heritage. With 19 tracks, this album was a treasure trove of hits that cemented Wizkid’s place in African music history.
Key tracks:
• Ojuelegba: This track is a classic that captures Wizkid’s journey from the streets of Lagos to stardom. It became an anthem not just in Nigeria but around the world, with international artists like Drake and Skepta jumping on a remix.
• Jaiye Jaiye (feat. Femi Kuti): Featuring the legendary Femi Kuti, this song was an energetic fusion of Afrobeats and jazz, paying homage to Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.
• Show You the Money: A club anthem that dominated airwaves in Africa, “Show You the Money” showcased Wizkid’s ability to create infectious party vibes.
Impact:
Ayo solidified Wizkid’s status as an Afrobeats icon. Tracks like Ojuelegba became symbolic of his rise to fame and laid the groundwork for his future global success. The album also demonstrated his knack for combining traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary beats, making him a household name in Africa.
3. “Superstar” (2011)
Why it stands out:
Wizkid’s debut album Superstar is where it all began. Released in 2011, Superstar introduced the world to a young Wizkid with a fresh sound that blended Afrobeats, reggae, and hip-hop. The album captured the energy of a rising star, and its success laid the foundation for his illustrious career.
Key tracks:
• Holla at Your Boy: This breakout single turned Wizkid into an overnight sensation. Its catchy hook and youthful energy made it an instant favorite among fans.
• Tease Me/Bad Guys: This track showed a more mature side of Wizkid and solidified his place in Nigeria’s rapidly growing Afrobeats scene.
• Don’t Dull: A fan favorite, this song became a club anthem and showcased Wizkid’s ability to craft infectious, danceable tracks.
Impact:
Superstar was a cultural phenomenon in Nigeria and beyond. It announced the arrival of a new generation of Afrobeats stars and helped popularize the genre among younger listeners. The album’s success also marked the beginning of Wizkid’s journey from local sensation to global superstar.
Conclusion:
Wizkid’s discography is a testament to his versatility, innovation, and ability to consistently push the boundaries of Afrobeats. From the foundational Superstar, which introduced the world to his talent, to the international success of Made in Lagos, Wizkid’s music has not only shaped the sound of modern Afrobeats but also connected African music with a global audience. These three albums represent pivotal moments in his career and showcase why Wizkid is considered one of the most influential artists of our time.
