14 Artists whose fame is directly or indirectly attributed to Olamide
Award-winning Nigerian rapper, singer, and record executive Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, fondly known as Olamide or Baddo, turns 35 today.
Regarded as one of Africa's most influential artists, he has been instrumental in shaping the success of Afrobeats stars and elevating street pop to mainstream recognition.
While talent is vital, breaking into Nigeria's competitive music industry is challenging. Olamide's journey from struggling artist to top star exemplifies this. Despite the hurdles, he has not kept his blessings to himself but has nurtured young talent, notably through his label, YBNL.
As part of activities to celebrate his birthday, NotjustOk has compiled a list of artists Olamide has supported, either by signing them to his label or promoting their work. From rising stars to established names, many owe their success to his guidance and mentorship, cementing his legacy in Nigerian music.
14. Asake
Popular Nigerian musician, Asake, also known as Mr. Money, is making waves in the music scene, thanks to the influence of Olamide and his YBNL record label. Joining YBNL propelled Asake to viral fame, and his success has been on a steady rise ever since.
Since joining YBNL, Asake's career has seen significant growth, culminating in his recent achievement of purchasing a house. Additionally, Asake received his first-ever Grammy nomination and has won different awards, evidence of his talent and the support provided by Olamide's record label.
13. Portable
Controversial Nigerian musician, Habeeb Okikiola popularly known as Portable owes much of his fame to the influence of Olamide, the YBNL boss. His breakthrough came with the collaboration with Olamide on the song Zazu Zeh, propelling him into the spotlight. Since then, Portable has maintained his presence in the music scene.
His popularity has afforded him opportunities to interact with international stars like Skepta and Wale. Additionally, his collaboration with Skepta on the track Tony Montana has garnered widespread attention and is enjoying significant airplay. Portable's rise to prominence is evidence of the impact of Olamide's support in shaping the careers of young artists in Nigeria.
12. Pepenazi
Nigerian singer, Opeyemi Gbenga Kayode also known as Pepenazi, who is widely known for hits like Another One For The Road, gained prominence through his association with Olamide. Collaborating with the YBNL boss, he created the anthem Illegal. However, Pepenazi has since shifted focus to his spiritual journey with God, leaving the music industry behind.
11. Yomi Blaze
Yomi Blaze, a young rapper, owes much of his success to Olamide, who discovered him on social media. Signing with YBNL Nation in 2018, Yomi Olaniyan gained prominence and had the opportunity to collaborate with talented artists under the label's umbrella. Benefitting from Olamide's mentorship, he showcased his rap skills on tracks like Ika and Juju, Guns & Roses on the YBNL Mafia Family collaborative album, marking his official introduction to the Nigerian music scene.
10. Zlatan
Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, known for his energetic performances, found himself propelled into the spotlight with the assistance of Olamide, despite not being signed to YBNL. In 2017, his song My Body featured a verse from Olamide, significantly boosting his presence in the music scene. Zlatan never hesitates to share with anyone willing to listen how Olamide has supported him and paved the way for his success in the music industry.
9. Naira Marley
Naira Marley, once a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene with a massive fan base known as the Marlians, credits much of his success to his association with Olamide. His career soared to new heights following his collaboration with the YBNL boss in 2018.
The pivotal moment came with the release of their song Issa Goal, which not only showcased Naira Marley's talent but also garnered significant attention and acclaim. The collaboration with Olamide propelled him into the spotlight, solidifying his position as one of the top music stars in the country.
8. Viktoh
Victor better known as Viktoh, another beneficiary of Olamide's support, saw his musical career take off after signing with the YBNL record label. Viktoh's talent caught the attention of Olamide, who was impressed and offered him a music contract in April 2014.
Before joining YBNL, Viktoh had already recorded some music. However, being part of a larger label meant that he had to work even harder to achieve success and gain popularity in the industry. Olamide further aided Viktoh's journey by featuring him on his album Street OT, where the young artist showcased his talent by singing a part in the Esan language.
7. Lyta
Opeyemi Babatunde Rahim, popularly known as Lyta, once associated with YBNL, gained significant exposure as a result. His record deal with YBNL Nation was publicly announced on February 3, 2018. His breakthrough single with the label, Time, featuring vocals by Olamide, was released on February 14, 2018. However, in 2019, Lyta departed from YBNL Nation, citing contractual and personal issues.
6. Picazo Rhap
Omogbolahan Sodiq Ilabode better known as Picazo Rhap's rise to fame began with his freestyle videos circulating on social media, grabbing the attention of Olamide. Formerly a street artiste, Picazo's association with the YBNL boss propelled him to stardom. His energetic performance, unique style, and remarkable vocal abilities garnered admiration, particularly with his freestyle on Chinko Ekun's Able God featuring Lil Kesh and Zlatan, which caught Olamide's attention.
5. Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML has showcased his talent and made significant strides in the music industry. Since joining YBNL, he has emerged as one of Nigeria's top and most recognizable artists. Recently, he earned his first Grammy nomination, alongside his YBNL colleague, Asake, further solidifying his status as a promising talent in the industry.
4. Temmi Ovwasa
Temmi Ovwasa, a talented young artist, found her first major opportunity in the music industry after signing with Olamide's label, YBNL. However, her relationship with Olamide soured over time, leading to public disagreements between them.
3. Chinko Ekun
Oladipo Olamide Emmanuel also known as Chinko Ekun, though not widely known, received significant assistance from Olamide in the music industry. Signing with YBNL Records boosted his street credibility and garnered him massive airplay. Professionally starting his music career in 2011, Chinko Ekun's Instagram freestyles caught Olamide's attention, leading to his signing with the YBNL label.
During his time with YBNL, Chinko Ekun was featured on three tracks on Olamide's Street OT album and performed at the Olamide Live in Concert (OLIC) 2014 in Lagos. His debut releases under YBNL Nation, including Emi Na Re and Alejo Oran, further solidified his presence in the music scene. After the end of his contract with YBNL, Chinko Ekun signed with Dubai-based label, Dek-Niyor Entertainment, continuing his journey in the music industry.
2. Adekunle Gold
Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko popularly known as Adekunle Gold, known for his initial lover boy style of music, has showcased remarkable versatility in his career evolution. Fondly called AG Baby or Tio Tequila or Big Fish, his success story is incomplete without acknowledging the influence of Olamide. According to Adekunle Gold, the YBNL boss took him to London for the first time in 2015, an experience he remains grateful for, highlighting Olamide's significant impact on his career.
1. Lil Kesh
Keshinro Ololade better known as Lil Kesh, and known for his street dance style of music, made a significant impact in the music industry after signing with Olamide's YBNL record label in 2014. His energetic performances and catchy tunes quickly propelled him to prominence in the entertainment scene. Despite parting ways with the label in 2016, Lil Kesh revealed that Olamide's support extended beyond their contractual agreement, underscoring the mentorship and assistance he received from the YBNL boss.
