About Wizkid
Early Life & Rise to Fame
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. A musical prodigy from a young age, he began recording music in his teens and signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), led by Banky W. His 2010 breakout single “Holla at Your Boy” catapulted him into stardom, paving the way for the release of his debut album “Superstar” (2011), which featured chart-topping hits like “Tease Me,” “Pakurumo,” and “Don’t Dull.”
Global Breakthrough & International Hits
Wizkid’s sound has crossed continents, making him one of the most globally recognized names in Afrobeats. His track “Ojuelegba” attracted attention from global stars Drake and Skepta, leading to a viral remix. He later teamed up with Drake again for “Come Closer,” a song that cemented his international appeal.
In 2020, he released “Essence” featuring Tems—a global smash that made history as the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and earn a Grammy nomination. Other hits like “Joro,” “Soco,” “Mood,” and “Fever” have become staples in the modern Afrobeats movement.
Accolades & Milestones
- Grammy Award winner for Best Music Video (with Beyoncé on “Brown Skin Girl”)
- Multiple Billboard Hot 100 entries
- BET and MTV Europe Music Awards winner
- First African artist to sell out the O2 Arena in London multiple times
Recent Work & Global Legacy
Wizkid’s 2022 album “More Love, Less Ego” blends Afrobeats with R&B and soul, featuring collaborations with international stars like Justin Bieber, Drake, Skepta, Burna Boy, and Beyoncé. His consistent innovation and boundary-pushing sound have made him a pioneer in the Afrobeats genre worldwide.
Why Wizkid is an Afrobeats Icon
- Pioneered the global wave of modern Afrobeats
- First Nigerian artist with major Billboard chart success
- Collaborated with the world’s biggest music stars
- Headlined and sold out arenas across Africa, Europe, and North America
From Lagos to the world, Wizkid continues to elevate African music on the global stage, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
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