Unleash the Beat Within: Your Ultimate Music Destination – Wizkid!
Step into the world of Wizkid and experience a unique blend of Afrobeat, Afropop, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop. Let the contagious rhythm and soulful melodies take you on a musical journey like no other.
Get Ready to Groove with Wizkid’s Infectious Beats!
1. Essence (Feat. Tems)
2. Joro
3. Fever
4. 2 Sugar (Feat. Ayra Starr)
5. Brown Skin Girl
6. Mood (Feat. BNXN)
7. Come Closer (Feat. Drake)
8. Slow Motion
9. Call Me Every Day
10. Bad to Me
11. Energy
12. Money & Love
About Wizkid
A brief overview of Wizkid’s career
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who has become one of Africa’s most prominent and successful artists. His career took off in 2010 with the release of his hit single “Holla at Your Boy,” which was featured on his debut album “Superstar” (2011). Since then, Wizkid has continued to dominate the Nigerian and African music scenes with his unique blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, pop, and hip-hop.
Wizkid’s success has not been limited to Africa alone; he has gained international recognition through his collaborations with global artists such as Drake, Beyoncé, Skepta, and Damian Marley. He is also the first African artist to feature on Billboard’s Twitter Last 24 Hours chart, thanks to his collaboration with Drake on “One Dance,” which reached number one in 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
In addition to his successful music career, Wizkid has won numerous awards, including MTV Europe Music Awards, BET Awards, MOBO Awards, and The Headies. He has also been nominated for a Grammy Award for his contribution to Beyoncé’s “The Lion King: The Gift” album. Wizkid’s achievements have solidified his status as one of Africa’s most influential and iconic musicians.
Importance of Wizkid’s music in Nigerian and African music industry
Wizkid’s music has had a significant impact on the Nigerian and African music industry, playing a crucial role in the global exposure and recognition of Afrobeat and African pop music. His contributions to the industry can be seen in several aspects:
1. Pioneering the Afrobeat sound: Wizkid, along with other contemporary artists, has played a vital role in popularizing Afrobeat, a music genre that fuses West African musical styles with American hip-hop and R&B. His music has helped bring Afrobeat to mainstream audiences, both in Africa and around the world.
2. Expanding African music globally: Wizkid’s collaborations with international artists, such as Drake, Beyoncé, and Skepta, have provided greater visibility and exposure for African music. These collaborations have introduced African artists to new audiences and helped break down barriers in the global music market.
3. Inspiring new artists: Wizkid’s success has inspired a new generation of African artists to follow in his footsteps and create their own unique sounds in the Afrobeat and Afropop genres. His achievements have shown that it is possible for African artists to achieve global success and recognition, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive music industry.
4. Contribution to the African music economy: Wizkid’s success has contributed to the growth and development of the African music industry, creating opportunities for other artists, producers, and industry professionals. His music has generated revenue through album sales, streaming, concerts, and brand endorsements, which in turn helps support the broader African music economy.
5. Cultural ambassador: As one of the most successful African artists globally, Wizkid has become a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and Africa as a whole. His music promotes and celebrates African culture, heritage, and creativity, fostering a positive image and greater understanding of the continent in the international arena.
In summary, Wizkid’s music has had a profound impact on the Nigerian and African music industry by popularizing Afrobeat, expanding the global reach of African music, inspiring new artists, contributing to the growth of the music economy, and acting as a cultural ambassador for the continent.
Early Life and Background
Wizkid grew up in a modest family with twelve female siblings. His father, a Sunni Muslim, had multiple wives, while his mother was a Christian. Wizkid’s exposure to different religious practices and the diverse cultural environment of Lagos played a significant role in shaping his worldview and musical influences.
Wizkid developed an interest in music at a young age, with his earliest musical inspirations coming from his church, where he sang in the choir. He was also influenced by the sounds of Afrobeat, reggae, hip-hop, and R&B that he heard in his community. Wizkid began performing at local talent shows and school events, honing his skills and gaining recognition for his talent.
Wizkid’s professional music career began when he formed a group called the Glorious Five with his friends from church. The group released an album but disbanded shortly afterward. In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), which marked the beginning of his solo career. He released his first single, “Holla at Your Boy,” in 2010, which quickly became a hit and gained him national attention. This success led to the release of his debut album, “Superstar,” in 2011, which solidified Wizkid’s position as a rising star in the Nigerian and African music scenes.
Rise to Fame
First album and breakthrough
Wizkid’s first album, “Superstar,” was released on June 12, 2011, under the label Empire Mates Entertainment (EME). The album marked his breakthrough in the Nigerian and African music industry, catapulting him to fame and establishing him as a prominent artist in the Afrobeat and Afropop genres.
“Superstar” comprises 17 tracks and features collaborations with several established Nigerian artists such as Banky W, Wande Coal, Skales, and D’Prince. The album was produced by notable Nigerian music producers, including Samklef, E-Kelly, Jay Sleek, Shizzi, and DJ Klem.
The album’s lead single, “Holla at Your Boy,” was released in 2010 and became an instant hit, earning Wizkid widespread recognition and acclaim in Nigeria. The song’s catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and vibrant music video resonated with audiences, making it a popular choice on radio stations and in clubs.
Following the success of “Holla at Your Boy,” Wizkid released other singles from the album, such as “Tease Me/Bad Guys,” “Don’t Dull,” “Love My Baby,” “Pakurumo,” and “Oluwa Lo Ni.” These songs further cemented Wizkid’s reputation as a talented singer and songwriter, showcasing his versatility and ability to create infectious tunes across a range of musical styles.
“Superstar” received positive reviews from critics, who praised Wizkid’s musical prowess, catchy hooks, and engaging lyrics. The album’s success earned Wizkid numerous awards and nominations, including the prestigious Next Rated award at The Headies 2011, which came with a brand-new car as the prize.
The impact of “Superstar” went beyond Nigeria, as Wizkid’s music gained traction across Africa and in the diaspora. The album laid the foundation for Wizkid’s international success and paved the way for future collaborations with global artists, further solidifying his status as one of Africa’s most influential musicians.
Collaborations with other artists
Wizkid has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, both within Nigeria and internationally. These collaborations have broadened his appeal, exposed his music to new audiences, and contributed to his global success. Some of his most notable collaborations include:
1. Drake: Wizkid collaborated with Canadian rapper and singer Drake on the hit song “One Dance” in 2016, which also features British singer Kyla. The song became a global success, reaching number one in 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Wizkid also worked with Drake on the track “Come Closer,” released in 2017, further solidifying their musical relationship.
2. Beyoncé: In 2019, Wizkid appeared on Beyoncé’s album “The Lion King: The Gift,” a companion album to the live-action remake of Disney’s “The Lion King.” Wizkid is featured on the song “Brown Skin Girl,” alongside Beyoncé, her daughter Blue Ivy Carter, and American musician SAINt JHN. The song received widespread acclaim and earned Wizkid a Grammy nomination for his contribution.
3. Skepta: Wizkid collaborated with British-Nigerian rapper Skepta on the track “Energy (Stay Far Away)” in 2018. The song showcases both artists’ unique styles and highlights their shared Nigerian heritage, with Wizkid providing melodic hooks and Skepta delivering hard-hitting verses.
4. Damian Marley: In 2020, Wizkid released his fourth studio album “Made in Lagos,” which features a collaboration with Jamaican reggae artist Damian Marley on the track “Blessed.” The song blends Wizkid’s Afrobeat sound with Marley’s reggae influences, creating a unique fusion of styles.
5. Chris Brown: Wizkid collaborated with American R&B singer Chris Brown on the track “African Bad Gyal,” released in 2017. The song is an upbeat, dance-driven track that showcases Wizkid’s ability to blend Afrobeat with contemporary R&B.
6. Major Lazer: Electronic dance music trio Major Lazer featured Wizkid on their 2017 song “Naughty Ridekid’s versatility, as he effortlessly transitions from Afrobeat to the electronic dance music genre.
Wizkid has worked with several other prominent Nigerian and African artists, such as Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, Runtown, Olamide, and Davido. His willingness to collaborate with artists from diverse genres and backgrounds has played a key role in his rise to international fame and the continued growth of his musical repertoire.
International recognition
Wizkid’s international recognition can be attributed to his unique musical style, collaborations with renowned global artists, and his ability to bring African music to the forefront of the global music scene. Some key highlights of Wizkid’s international recognition include:
1. Collaboration with Drake: Wizkid’s feature on Drake’s 2016 hit “One Dance” significantly boosted his global profile. The song topped charts in 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, making Wizkid the first Nigerian artist to achieve such a feat. This collaboration also marked Wizkid’s first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
2. Collaboration with Beyoncé: Wizkid’s work on “Brown Skin Girl” from Beyoncé’s album “The Lion King: The Gift” further expanded his international recognition. The song received critical acclaim and earned Wizkid a Grammy nomination for his contribution.
3. International awards and nominations: Wizkid has received numerous international awards and nominations, including BET Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and MOBO Awards, which celebrate his achievements in the global music industry.
4. Performances and tours: Wizkid has performed at various international music festivals and events, including the Wireless Festival in the United Kingdom, the Global Citizen Festival in South Africa, and the One Africa Music Fest in the United States. He has also headlined his own international tours, such as the “Wizkid: Live in Concert” tour and the “Starboy Fest,” which have contributed to his growing global fan base.
5. International record deals: In 2016, Wizkid signed a multi-album deal with RCA Records, a subsidiary of Sony Music, further cementing his status as an internationally recognized artist. This deal has provided him with increased resources and support to reach global audiences.
Wizkid’s international recognition is not only a testament to his talent and hard work but also signifies the growing global interest in and appreciation for African music. His success has paved the way for other African artists to gain international exposure and has contributed to the ongoing cultural exchange between Africa and the rest of the world.
Musical Style and Influence
Wizkid’s unique sound:
Wizkid’s music is characterized by a distinctive blend of Afrobeat, Afropop, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop, resulting in a unique and infectious sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. His versatile approach to music allows him to create catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and dance-driven beats that have become his signature style. Wizkid’s sound reflects the diverse cultural influences he has encountered throughout his life, showcasing a deep connection to his Nigerian roots while incorporating elements of global music trends.
Musical influences:
Wizkid has cited various artists as his musical influences, ranging from Afrobeat legends like Fela Kuti and King Sunny Ade to reggae icons like Bob Marley and contemporary global stars like Michael Jackson and Chris Brown. Growing up in the vibrant city of Lagos, Wizkid was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, which have played a significant role in shaping his own artistic development. His ability to draw inspiration from multiple sources has allowed him to create a unique sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Impact on Nigerian and African music:
Wizkid’s success has had a profound impact on the Nigerian and African music industry. He has been instrumental in popularizing the Afrobeat and Afropop genres, contributing to the global exposure and recognition of African music. Wizkid’s collaborations with international artists have helped break down barriers and introduce African musicians to new audiences, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive global music industry.
Moreover, Wizkid’s achievements have inspired a new generation of African artists to pursue their own music careers, demonstrating that success on a global scale is possible for artists from the continent. His influence has also fostered a sense of pride and cultural identity among African youth, as they see their music and culture celebrated on the world stage.
In conclusion, Wizkid’s unique sound, diverse musical influences, and significant impact on the Nigerian and African music industry have established him as a trailblazer and cultural icon. His contributions to the global music scene have not only enriched the musical landscape but have also created opportunities for other African artists to share their talents with the world.
Achievements and Awards
Wizkid has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, recognizing his exceptional talent and contributions to the music industry. Some of the most notable achievements and awards won by Wizkid include:
1. BET Awards:
– Best International Act: Africa (2012, 2017)
2. MOBO Awards:
– Best African Act (2011, 2016)
– Best International Act (2017)
3. MTV Europe Music Awards:
– Best African Act (2016)
– Best Worldwide Act (2016)
4. The Headies Awards:
– Next Rated (2011)
– Artiste of the Year (2012, 2016)
– Best R&B/Pop Album for “Superstar” (2012)
– Hip Hop World Revelation of the Year (2012)
– Best Music Video for “Azonto” (2013)
– Best Collaboration for “Bad” with Tiwa Savage (2018)
– Viewer’s Choice for “Come Closer” (2018)
5. The Nigerian Entertainment Awards:
– Best New Act of the Year (2011)
– Best Pop/R&B Artist of the Year (2012)
– Best Album of the Year for “Superstar” (2012)
– Best Collaboration for “Girl” with Bracket (2012)
– Hottest Single of the Year for “Baddest Boy” (2012)
– Best Single of the Year for “Caro” (2013)
– Music Video of the Year for “Azonto” (2014)
6. Ghana Music Awards:
– African Artiste of the Year (2013, 2014, 2016)
7. City People Entertainment Awards:
– Musician of the Year (2014)
– Most Popular Song of the Year for “In My Bed” (2015)
8. Channel O Music Video Awards:
– Most Gifted Video of the Year for “Azonto” (2013)
9. Soundcity MVP Awards:
– Artiste of the Year (2016)
– Best Male MVP (2016)
– African Artiste of the Year (2016)
– Best Collaboration for “Soco” (2019)
10. Grammy Awards:
– Nominated for Best Music Video for “Brown Skin Girl” (2021)
This list is not exhaustive, as Wizkid has won many other awards and recognitions throughout his career. These achievements are a testament to his talent, hard work, and significant impact on the music industry both in Nigeria and on a global scale.
Personal Life
Family and relationships:
Wizkid was born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in a multi-religious household, with his father being a Sunni Muslim and his mother a Christian. Wizkid has twelve female siblings and has mentioned in interviews that growing up in such a large family has influenced his life and music.
In terms of romantic relationships, Wizkid has been private about his personal life. However, it is known that he has three children from three different relationships: Boluwatife Balogun, Ayo Balogun, and Zion Balogun.
Philanthropic work:
Wizkid has been involved in various charitable and philanthropic endeavors throughout his career. He has used his fame and influence to give back to his community and support causes close to his heart. Some examples of his philanthropic work include:
1. Donating funds to a fan suffering from kidney failure in 2015, along with fellow Nigerian artist Davido.
2. Supporting the UNICEF campaign to provide clean water and sanitation to Nigerian children in 2018.
3. Participating in charity concerts to raise funds for various causes, such as the “Together We Push” initiative to support Nigerian disabled athletes in 2015.
4. Making donations to schools and offering scholarships to underprivileged children in Nigeria.
5. Supporting the fight against COVID-19 by participating in the Africa Day Benefit Concert in 2020, which raised funds for healthcare workers on the frontlines.
Social media presence:
Wizkid has a strong social media presence, which he uses to connect with fans, share updates about his music, and promote his philanthropic activities. He is active on various platforms, including Instagram (@wizkidayo), Twitter (@wizkidayo), and Facebook (Wizkid – Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun). As of October 2021, Wizkid has over 12 million followers on Instagram, 6.1 million followers on Twitter, and 3.3 million likes on his Facebook page. His social media presence has played a significant role in building and maintaining his global fan base, as well as promoting his music and philanthropic endeavors.