Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani, better known by his stage name Ckay, has made history as his global sensation, “Love Nwantiti (ah ah ah),” officially surpassed one billion streams on Spotify, cementing its status as the first solo track by a Nigerian act to reach the milestone on the platform.
The record-breaking stream count translates to a significant financial reward for the artist, given his principal role in the song’s creation. CKay is credited as the sole writer, performer, and co-producer of the track, ensuring that the majority of the streaming royalties flow directly to him.
Love Nwantiti’s sustained global appeal is undeniable: in the last 28 days alone, listeners from the United States , India,, Indonesia, Brazil , and the United Kingdom continue to press play, proof of the track’s staying power well beyond its viral peak.
This achievement places CKay in an elite group of African artists with billion-stream records on Spotify, which includes hits driven by collaborations with Nigerian artists, such as Drake’s One Dance (featuring Wizkid and Kyla), Future’s Wait For U (featuring Drake and Tems), and Rema’s Calm Down (featuring Selena Gomez), and solo song Water, by Tyla.
CKay achieved this historic mark with a solo, non-collaborative lead release by a Nigerian artist. This distinction highlights his unique vision and singular impact as both a writer and performer, making him a true torchbearer for the new generation of African music talent.
“Love Nwantiti” is more than a viral hit; it is a cultural reset. Demonstrating the rich storytelling and emotional depth of his sound, CKay didn’t just break borders, he built a powerful bridge for the global crossover of authentic African music, proving its resonance on the global stage.
CKay’s success is a signal for the future of African music on the global stage. Let us know if you’d like more on CKay’s journey or the song’s global streaming story.
