Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished and internationally acclaimed artists, recognized for his pioneering role in globalizing Afrobeats.
Born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Wizkid began his musical journey at a young age, performing with a local church choir before venturing into professional recording.
His early career breakthrough came in 2010 with the release of “Holla at Your Boy” under Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment, which introduced him as a rising star in Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.
Wizkid’s debut album Superstar (2011) earned him national acclaim, with singles such as “Tease Me/Bad Guys” and “Don’t Dull” establishing him as a household name.
He later achieved continental recognition with tracks like “Ojuelegba,” which received international endorsement from artists like Drake and Skepta.
His collaboration with Drake on the chart-topping single “One Dance” in 2016 propelled him into global stardom, marking a historic moment for African music on the world stage.
Over the years, Wizkid has consistently delivered hits that fuse Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, and R&B, creating a distinctive sound admired worldwide.
His critically acclaimed album Made in Lagos (2020) solidified his position as a cultural icon, with the hit single “Essence” featuring Tems becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and later receiving a remix with Justin Bieber.
Wizkid’s artistry extends beyond music, as he has become a symbol of African excellence, winning multiple international awards including Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and BET Awards.
He has headlined major concerts around the world, including the O2 Arena in London, which he sold out multiple times, a testament to his massive global fan base.
Today, Wizkid remains a central figure in shaping the future of Afrobeats, continuously influencing global music trends while showcasing the depth of African creativity.
With his unmatched consistency, international collaborations, and groundbreaking achievements, he has secured his legacy as one of Africa’s most iconic and influential musicians.
Discover more from moi awards
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
