Essence (Wizkid song)
"Essence" is a song by Nigerian singer Wizkid, featuring fellow Nigerian singer Tems. It was released on 30 October 2020, as the fourth single from Wizkid's fourth studio album, Made in Lagos. "Essence" was produced by P2J and Legendury Beatz. The "sensual" song sees the duo express their desire for each other. A music video was released on 9 April 2021, shot in Accra, Ghana. "Essence" is the first Nigerian song in history to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Global 200.[1][2] The song received a nomination at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards for Best Global Music Performance.
"Essence"
30 October 2020
4:08
- Starboy
- RCA
- Ayodeji Balogun
- Temilade Openiyi
- Uzezi Oniko
- Okiemute Oniko
- Richard Isong
Background and composition[edit]
After the song garnered popularity, Tems said that although she was "happy" with her first recording of the song, she felt her verse could have been better. However, Wizkid and his team thought her vocals were great and ultimately kept it. Tems recalled hearing the song "in the most random places", while in Los Angeles.[3]
"Essence" is an Afrobeats/Afro-pop and R&B song.[4][5] Lyrically, it sees Wizkid and Tems yearning for each other's physical connection;[6][7] deemed a "flirtatious" song, the artists deliver "tongue-in-cheek showboating".[4] As observed by NPR's Sidney Madden, the song features Tems singing the chorus about how only her lover can give her the feeling of "lust and obsession and worship that she deserves", with the lyrics "You don't need no other body. You don't need no other body".[8]
Music video[edit]
The music video was released on 9 April 2021.[30] Directed by Director K of PriorGold Pictures, and produced by Leke Alabi Isama,[31] it was shot in Accra, Ghana. It was the fourth video to be released from Made in Lagos.[11] The visual sees Wizkid and Tems lounging in the streets of Accra, while Wizkid is later seen riding in a car with two women.[11][31] The video was considered "colourful" and "scintillating",[4][6] with GRM Daily saying, "The visuals perfectly coincide with the track's blissful feel and include colourful fits, scenic shots and good vibes".[10] Rolling Stone said the artists "glow, Wiz bare-chested and draped in diamonds, Tems in slick braids and flowing garb".[7]
"Essence"
13 August 2021
- Afrobeats
- R&B
4:23
- Starboy
- RCA
- Ayodeji Balogun
- Justin Bieber
- Temilade Openiyi
- Uzezi Oniko
- Okiemute Oniko
- Richard Isong
- Legendury Beatz