Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, known professionally as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. He was born into a polygamous family; his father had three wives, and Wizkid was the youngest of his six siblings. Growing up in a multicultural household, Wizkid was exposed to various musical influences, including his mother's Pentecostal church and his father's Islamic faith.
Wizkid attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School and later attended Lagos State University (LASU) before transferring to Lead City University. However, he dropped out to pursue his music career full-time, a decision that would soon pay off as he began to make a name for himself in the Nigerian music industry.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Wizkid's musical journey started at a young age. He formed a music group called the Glorious Five with some friends from his church, and they released an album before disbanding. His initial stage name was Lil Prinz. His big break came when he met OJB Jezreel, a record producer, who mentored him and allowed him to watch recording sessions of artists like 2Baba and Sound Sultan.
In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), a record label founded by Banky W. His collaboration with Banky W on the song "Omoge You Too Much" marked his official entry into the music industry. Wizkid's debut single, "Holla at Your Boy," released in 2010, became a massive hit, earning him the Next Rated award at The Headies 2011 and solidifying his status as a rising star.
Rise to Prominence
Wizkid's debut studio album, **"Superstar" (2011)**, was a commercial success. The album included hits like "Tease Me/Bad Guys," "Don't Dull," and "Pakurumo," which received extensive airplay and established him as a leading artist in Africa. "Superstar" won several awards and was a turning point in Wizkid's career.
In 2014, Wizkid released his second studio album, **"Ayo,"** which featured hit singles like "Jaiye Jaiye," "On Top Your Matter," and "Show You the Money." The album showcased his versatility and ability to blend Afrobeats with other genres, further cementing his place in the African music scene.
International Breakthrough
Wizkid's international breakthrough came with his collaboration with Canadian rapper Drake on the hit single "One Dance" in 2016. The song topped the charts in 15 countries, including the US Billboard Hot 100, and became one of the most streamed songs on Spotify. This collaboration brought Wizkid global recognition and opened doors to further international collaborations.
In the same year, Wizkid signed a multi-album deal with RCA Records, a subsidiary of Sony Music. This partnership marked a significant milestone in his career, positioning him as a global artist.
"Sounds from the Other Side" and Continued Success
Wizkid's third studio album, "Sounds from the Other Side" (2017), marked his official foray into the international music market. The album featured collaborations with international artists such as Chris Brown, Ty Dolla Sign, Major Lazer, and Drake. It received positive reviews and showcased Wizkid's ability to blend Afrobeats with other genres like dancehall and reggae.
The singles "Come Closer" featuring Drake, "Daddy Yo," and "African Bad Gyal" were particularly successful, further establishing Wizkid as a global star. He continued to collaborate with top artists, including Beyoncé on "Brown Skin Girl" from her "The Lion King: The Gift" album, which won the BET Her Award and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Music Video.
"Made in Lagos" and Global Impact
In 2020, Wizkid released his fourth studio album, "Made in Lagos," which received widespread acclaim and solidified his status as one of the most influential artists in the world. The album featured collaborations with artists like Burna Boy, Skepta, Damian Marley, H.E.R., and Ella Mai.
"Made in Lagos" was praised for its cohesive sound, blending Afrobeats with elements of reggae, R&B, and dancehall. The single "Essence," featuring Tems, became a global hit, peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy nomination. The song was later remixed with Justin Bieber, further increasing its international appeal.
Personal Life
Wizkid has three children with three different women: Boluwatife, Ayodeji, and Zion. He has often kept his personal life private but occasionally shares glimpses on social media. Known for his distinct fashion sense, Wizkid has also become a style icon, influencing fashion trends across Africa and beyond.
Philanthropy and Business Ventures
Wizkid has been involved in various philanthropic activities, including providing scholarships to students and supporting healthcare initiatives. He has also ventured into business, launching his own record label, Starboy Entertainment, which has signed several successful artists and producers.
In addition to music, Wizkid has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Pepsi, MTN, and UBA, further expanding his influence and business portfolio.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Wizkid's impact on the global music scene is profound. He is one of the pioneers of the modern Afrobeats movement, helping to bring African music to a global audience. His ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary music styles has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including several BET Awards, MOBO Awards, and an MTV Europe Music Award.
Wizkid's success has paved the way for other African artists, demonstrating that African music can achieve mainstream international success. He has become a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and Africa, using his platform to promote African culture and music.
Conclusion
Wizkid's journey from a young aspiring artist in Lagos to a global superstar is a testament to his talent, hard work, and vision. With a string of successful albums, numerous international collaborations, and a growing influence on global music and culture, Wizkid has solidified his place as one of the most important and innovative artists of his generation. His contributions to music and his commitment to promoting African culture ensure that his legacy will be felt for years to come.
