By Kevin Jackson/Observer writer—
Koffee poses in her Arsenal-inspired 22/23 pre-match shirt at the Notting Hill Carnival last year. (Photo: Instagram)
REGGAE artiste Koffee says when she recorded Toast in 2018 she never expected it to become a global hit. Last Friday the song was certified platinum in the United Kingdom for sales and streaming figures exceeding 600,000 units.
The certification was issued by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI).
“I can honestly say that I had no idea it would’ve been as big as it is today. I am truly grateful,” Koffee told the Jamaica Observer shortly after the announcement.
“It means a lot to me [the certification], and I appreciate the love from my supports in the United Kingdom,” said Koffee.
Produced by Izy Beats, Toast is featured on Koffee’s 2019 EP Rapture.
The project went on to win the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, making her the youngest and sole female to win in that category since its inception in 1985.
Toast peaked at number 70 on the Official UK Singles chart. She later followed up with W featuring Gunna (certified silver), which rose to number 82. Koffee later collaborated with British rapper J Hus on Repeat, which peaked at 21.
In January Gimme, a collaboration with British singer Sam Smith and Jessie Reyez, topped out at 60 on the chart.
In the United States, Toast made its presence felt on multiple Billboard charts. The song hit number 24 on Rap Airplay, number 37 on Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay, and number 47 on R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay.
Koffee says the success of Toast has opened several doors for her career.
“It has definitely allowed me to travel all over the world and has allowed me to be in spaces with other amazing artistes,” she said.
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