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The 2020 Grammy Awards became a hotbed of debate, especially for fans of Wizkid and his global hit Essence. Despite its undeniable cultural impact and global reach, Essence was overlooked for the Best Global Music Performance category. Many believe the song, which blended Afrobeat and R&B with unmatched finesse, deserved to win. This snub sparked widespread criticism, with notable voices, including international stars, questioning the fairness of the Grammys’ selection process. In this post, we’ll explore why Essence was such a standout track, why its exclusion from Grammy recognition matters, and what it reflects about the treatment of Afrobeat on the global stage.
The Phenomenal Rise of Essence
Released in 2020 as part of Wizkid’s Made in Lagos album, Essence took the world by storm. Featuring Nigerian singer Tems, the track was hailed as the “song of the summer” in 2021, receiving praise from fans and industry leaders alike. The song wasn’t just a chart success—it became a cultural anthem, celebrated for its smooth rhythm, relatable lyrics, and a vibe that transcended borders.
Essence broke records, becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Platinum certification in the United States. Its remix, featuring Justin Bieber, further expanded its reach, solidifying its status as a global hit. The song was played in clubs, on radio stations, and during countless personal moments, making it a favorite among music lovers worldwide.
Why Essence Was More Than Just a Song
The impact of Essence went beyond entertainment. It represented the growing global recognition of Afrobeat as a genre and showcased Africa’s potential to dominate the music scene. Wizkid’s collaboration with Tems also opened doors for Nigerian artists, introducing many to a wider audience.
The song’s lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, offering a refreshing alternative to the fast-paced, high-energy tracks dominating pop charts. Its production, led by Nigerian producer P2J and legendury Beatz, combined traditional Afrobeat elements with contemporary sounds, creating a blend that felt authentic yet universally appealing.
The Grammy Controversy: Was Essence Ignored?
The Grammys have faced criticism for years over their handling of non-Western music categories. Despite its global success, Essence lost in the Best Global Music Performance category. This decision left many questioning the selection criteria and whether the Grammys truly recognized cultural and artistic significance over industry politics.
Nicki Minaj, among others, has been vocal about the perceived biases in the Grammy selection process, pointing out how many artists, including Wizkid, have been overlooked despite their massive contributions to music. These criticisms underline a larger issue: the need for equitable recognition of artists from diverse backgrounds.
Moving Forward: The Legacy of Essence
Despite the snub, Essence remains a defining moment for Afrobeat. Its success has paved the way for other Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, Tems, and Rema to gain international acclaim. The song’s legacy is a reminder that awards, while prestigious, don’t always define a song’s impact.
For fans and artists alike, the message is clear: Afrobeat is here to stay. The global music industry must adapt to this reality, ensuring fair representation and recognition for all artists, regardless of origin.
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