Grammy-winning artist Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has matched Tems as the Nigerian artist with the second-highest number of certified singles by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), each boasting four certified tracks. This milestone further cements Burna Boy’s status as a global music powerhouse, continuing his streak of international success and influence.
Burna Boy’s latest accolade comes from the Gold certification of his hit collaboration with British Grime artist Dave, “Location,” which has sold 500,000 units in the U.S. This achievement adds to his previous certified songs in the U.S.: “Last Last” (Platinum), “Ye” (Gold), and “On The Low” (Gold). His ability to consistently produce hit records that resonate with both local and international audiences highlights his exceptional talent and broad appeal.
In his career, Burna Boy has broken numerous barriers and set new standards for African artists on the global stage. His blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop has created a unique sound that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With each certification, he demonstrates the potential for African music to achieve mainstream success in some of the world’s biggest markets.
While Burna Boy and Tems share the second spot, Wizkid maintains his lead as the most certified Nigerian artist in the U.S. with seven certified singles. Wizkid’s dominance in the U.S. market is a testament to his versatility and the widespread appeal of his music. His achievements have paved the way for other Nigerian artists to follow, contributing significantly to the global rise of Afrobeats.
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In related news, American rapper J.Cole has achieved his first-ever diamond-certified single. His 2019 hit “Middle Child” has joined the RIAA Diamond League, signifying sales of 10 million units. This prestigious certification places J.Cole among the elite group of artists who have reached this monumental milestone. Chart Data tweeted on Thursday, “J.Cole earns his first ever @RIAA Diamond single with ‘Middle Child’.”
These achievements not only highlight the global impact of artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and J.Cole but also underscore the evolving landscape of the music industry, where artists from diverse backgrounds are breaking through barriers and reaching new heights.