Nigerian singer-songwriter CKay has reached a massive career milestone as his global hit “Love Nwantiti” surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying its status as one of the most successful Afrobeats songs in history.
This achievement marks a defining moment not only for CKay but also for the entire African music landscape.
Originally released in 2019 as part of his CKay the First EP, “Love Nwantiti” started as a soft, romantic tune but soon evolved into a worldwide phenomenon. The song’s infectious rhythm, tender vocals and cross-cultural appeal sparked a global wave that few African songs have ever achieved.
From Europe to Asia, North America to the Middle East, the song became an international anthem that introduced millions to the beauty of Afrobeats.
The track’s rise was supercharged by social media, especially TikTok, where it soundtracked millions of videos and viral challenges.
By 2021, it had become one of the most Shazamed songs in the world, topping charts in multiple countries and earning countless certifications. Its success led to several remixes featuring artists from France, Germany, North Africa, and even the United States — each version pushing the song further across borders.
Ckay
Now, hitting 1 billion Spotify streams places CKay among the few African artists to reach that elite status on the platform. For a song that started organically and grew purely through global love and fan power, this milestone represents a triumph of authenticity and creativity.
CKay, known for his signature emo-afrobeats sound, has continued to evolve since the song’s breakout moment. But “Love Nwantiti” remains his most iconic work — a timeless record that continues to resonate with old and new fans alike. The latest achievement not only strengthens CKay’s international footprint but also showcases how far Afrobeats has come as a global force.
This moment serves as a reminder of the power of African music and the growing influence of Nigerian artists in shaping global pop culture. It is a win for CKay, a win for Nigeria, and a win for Afrobeats worldwide.
Congratulations to CKay on this historic milestone. Afrobeats to the world, always.