As the public exchange between Afrobeat heir Seun Kuti and global music star Wizkid continues to fuel conversations about the identity and evolution of Nigerian music, attention has increasingly turned to Wizkid’s role in projecting Afrobeat and Afropop onto the global stage.
From his early breakthrough in the Nigerian music industry to his high-profile international collaborations and chart-topping successes, Wizkid’s ascent reflects the modern expression of African music—one that balances local influences with worldwide appeal.
Examining his career offers insight into why he is both widely celebrated and occasionally critiqued amid ongoing debates over artistic authenticity and the future direction of the genre.
Here are a few key things to know about Wizkid:
1. His real name and background
Wizkid was born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria. He grew up in a large polygamous family and was exposed to music and church performances at a very young age, which helped shape his early interest in music.
2. Early start in music
Wizkid began making music as a child and was once part of a gospel group known as the Glorious Five. He recorded his first songs before the age of 11, gaining early studio experience that laid the foundation for his professional career.
3. Rise to fame with Superstar
His debut album, Superstar (2011), marked his breakthrough in the Nigerian music industry. The project featured hit songs such as Holla at Your Boy, Tease Me/Bad Guys, and Don’t Dull, instantly establishing him as one of Nigeria’s leading young artistes.
4. Multiple award-winning career
Wizkid is one of the most decorated African artistes of all time. He has won several local and international awards, including BET Awards, MOBO Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and a Grammy Award for his contribution to Brown Skin Girl with Beyoncé.
5. Grammy recognition
In 2021, Wizkid won his first Grammy Award for Best Music Video through Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl, where he was featured alongside Saint Jhn and Blue Ivy Carter. This achievement cemented his place among Africa’s globally recognised music stars.
6. Global collaborations
Wizkid has collaborated with some of the biggest names in global music, including Drake, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, Skepta, Damian Marley, and Tems. His feature on Drake’s One Dance became a global smash, topping charts in multiple countries.
7. Made in Lagos global success
His fourth studio album, Made in Lagos (2020), is widely regarded as a cultural landmark. The album blended Afrobeats with global sounds and gained international acclaim, with Essence becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.
8. Essence and historic Billboard impact
Essence, featuring Tems, achieved massive global success, earning a Grammy nomination and peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. It also topped the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart, further expanding the global reach of Nigerian music.
9. Signature sound and style
Wizkid is known for his smooth vocals, laid-back delivery, and fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, reggae, and pop. His style prioritises melody and emotion over aggressive lyricism, making his music widely appealing across cultures.
10. Influence on Afrobeats globalisation
Wizkid has played a major role in pushing Afrobeats onto the global stage. His international tours, collaborations, and chart success helped open doors for other African artistes in Europe, North America, and beyond.
11. Sold-out global tours
The Nigerian superstar has sold out major venues across the world, including London’s O2 Arena and Madison Square Garden in New York. These historic shows highlighted the global demand for African music and performers.
12. Record label and business ventures
Wizkid founded Starboy Entertainment, a record label that has signed and developed talents within the Nigerian music industry. Beyond music, he has secured major endorsement deals with brands such as Pepsi, Puma, and Tecno.
13. Fashion and cultural influence
Beyond music, Wizkid is a major fashion and lifestyle icon. His minimalist fashion sense and collaborations with global fashion brands have influenced youth culture both in Africa and internationally.
14. Private personality
Despite his global fame, Wizkid is known for emphasizing privacy. He rarely grants interviews and keeps much of his personal life away from the public, allowing his music and performances to speak for him.
15. Legacy and cultural impact
Wizkid is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Afrobeats. His journey from Lagos to global stardom has inspired a new generation of African artistes and positioned Nigerian music as a powerful force on the world stage.
