Every artist’s dream is to hit the interntional market, sell out shows, and win international certifications like the RIAA. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is a trade association that represents the music recording industry in the United States, and a number of Afrobeats artists have been privileged to earn this certification after selling out units in the United States.
In the ever-evolving world of Afrobeats, few artists have had a rapid rise as Oxlade, the Nigerian singer-songwriter whose song “Ku Lo Sa” pushed him to international stardom. Recently earning his first RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) certification for the single, Oxlade’s journey from a promising artist to a household name has been remarkable. The milestone marks an important moment in his career, reinforcing his influence not just in Africa but across the globe.
Released in 2022, “Ku Lo Sa” quickly became a commercial sensation. Its soulful melodies, and Oxlade’s velvet vocals resonated deeply with listeners, blending contemporary Afrobeats with an infectious intimacy. The song’s appeal extended beyond just streaming numbers, it became a defining soundtrack for countless moments and was one of the standout performances from Colors Studio. This iconic performance video has amassed over 187 million views across two music videos on YouTube and has surpassed 400 million streams on Spotify.
Colors Studio, which focuses on showcasing raw talent from around the world in a simple and stripped-back setting, played a pivotal role in introducing “Ku Lo Sa” to a wider audience. With just a microphone, an emotionally charged performance, and a green backdrop, Oxlade captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. The simplicity of the video allowed his raw talent to shine through, highlighting the sheer power of his voice and the song’s emotional depth.
The artist then went on to feature American singer-songwriter Camila Cabello on the remix released on December 9, 2022. Before “Ku Lo Sa,” Oxlade was already gaining traction with earlier hits like “Away” and his feature on “Ojuju,” but nothing quite compares to the impact of this 2022 single. “Ku Lo Sa” brought him not only fame but cemented his place among the top Afrobeats stars globally. The song spent several months on the Billboard Afrobeats Chart, peaking at No. 5, an impressive feat considering the growing competition within the genre.
The track became a global anthem, with listeners from all over the world embracing its catchy hooks, romantic lyrics, and danceable rhythms. In the United States, its success was particularly noteworthy, demonstrating that Afrobeats was no longer just a niche genre but one with mainstream appeal.
In 2024, Oxlade’s “Ku Lo Sa” earned its first RIAA certification, marking an important achievement in the artist’s career. The certification is one of the highest honors in the music industry, recognizing songs that have reached significant sales milestones in the United States. For an African artist, breaking into the U.S. market and earning such recognition is no small feat, especially in a competitive industry dominated by global superstars.
Oxlade now joins the ranks of Afrobeats heavyweights like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tems, whose songs have also earned RIAA certifications, showcasing how the genre has evolved from a primarily African export to a dominant force in global pop culture.
“Ku Lo Sa” has been more than just a hit single for Oxlade—it has opened doors for collaborations, performances at major festivals, and tours across different continents. The song has turned him into a global star, while his consistent output of quality music has solidified his status as one of Nigeria’s leading contemporary artists.
His unique blend of heartfelt lyrics and effortlessly smooth vocals has distinguished him from his peers. His growth from a rising talent to a mainstay in the Afrobeats scene is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and ability to connect with fans through his music. As he continues to evolve as an artist, the success of “Ku Lo Sa” is likely just the beginning of even greater accolades.
Oxlade’s journey from being an unknown artist to international fame has been fueled by his undeniable talent and a song that resonated with millions around the world. The RIAA certification of “Ku Lo Sa” not only represents a personal triumph for the artist but also a milestone for the Afrobeats genre as it continues its global rise. With his star only continuing to rise, Oxlade is poised to remain a dominant force in the global music scene, and “Ku Lo Sa” will forever be remembered as the track that sparked it all.
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