Connect with us

Celebrity News

Wizkid’s Musical Journey: What you don’t know

Published

on

In the global music scene, few artists have achieved the level of success and influence that Wizkid has. From his early beginnings in Lagos, Nigeria, to becoming one of the most recognized faces of Afrobeats worldwide, Wizkid’s journey is a testament to his talent, hard work, and visionary approach to music.

This article takes an in-depth look at Wizkid’s evolution from his breakout single “Holla at Your Boy” to his current status as a global music icon, examining his musical growth, influence on Afrobeats, and contributions to the global music industry.

Early Beginnings:

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria, started his musical journey at a young age. Raised in Surulere, a district in Lagos, Wizkid was exposed to a variety of music genres, including reggae, fuji, and hip-hop.

His love for music led him to form a group called “Glorious Five” with some friends when he was just 11 years old. Although the group did not achieve commercial success, it was a crucial starting point for Wizkid, who soon began to hone his skills as a solo artist.

In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), a move that would prove to be pivotal in his career. Under EME, Wizkid released his debut single “Holla at Your Boy” in 2010.

 

The song quickly became a hit, it marked Wizkid’s entry into the Nigerian music industry. “Holla at Your Boy” earned him several awards and nominations, and it was clear that a new star was on the rise.

The Superstar Era:

Following the success of “Holla at Your Boy,” Wizkid released his debut studio album, Superstar, in 2011. The album was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Tease Me/Bad Guys,” “Pakurumo,” and “Don’t Dull.”

Superstar solidified Wizkid’s place in the Nigerian music industry and introduced him as one of the leading voices of the Afrobeats genre.

Afrobeats, a genre that blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds like hip-hop, dancehall, and R&B, was beginning to gain international attention, and Wizkid was at the forefront of this movement.

His ability to fuse local and global influences in his music made him a standout artist, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa.

During this period, Wizkid’s collaborations with other Nigerian artists, including Wande Coal, D’banj, and Ice Prince, further expanded his reach and influence. His music was characterized by its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and infectious beats, which resonated with a broad audience.

Breaking International Barriers:

Wizkid’s journey to global stardom took a significant leap in 2016 with his feature on Drake’s hit single “One Dance.” The song, which topped charts in over 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, introduced Wizkid to a global audience.

“One Dance” became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time, and Wizkid’s contribution to the track was widely recognized.

Following the success of “One Dance,” Wizkid continued to collaborate with international artists, including Chris Brown, Ty Dolla $ign, Major Lazer, and Skepta. These collaborations not only expanded his global reach but also helped to further popularize

Afrobeats around the world.

 

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

− 5 = one

Celebrity News

Wizkid Celebrates His Lagos Legacy with Family at Tribeca Film Festival Premiere  

Published

on

New York City’s Tribeca Film Festival witnessed a special moment as Afrobeats icon Wizkid premiered his documentary “Wizkid: Long Live Lagos” with partner Jada Pollock and their young daughter by his side. The family made a striking impression on the red carpet—Wizkid in a crisp white ensemble, Pollock in a pink and white tie-dye dress with bold red sunglasses, and their daughter mirroring her father’s style in a miniature white outfit. Their coordinated appearance highlighted the personal significance of this project for the superstar.  

 

More Than a Music Documentary

 

Directed by Karam Gill, the 83-minute film goes beyond a standard artist biography. It artfully blends Wizkid’s rise to fame with the spirit of Lagos, the city that shaped him. Viewers are treated to intimate behind-the-scenes footage, including studio sessions and personal reflections, alongside electrifying clips from his historic 2024 performance at London’s Tottenham Stadium, a defining moment for Afrobeats on the global stage.  

 

The documentary also serves as a portrait of Lagos itself, capturing its vibrant culture and complexities. Through Wizkid’s journey, the film explores how the city’s energy, struggles, and resilience have influenced his music and worldview.  

 

Wizkid smiles alongside partner Jada Pollock and their daughter on the red carpet

Wizkid at Tribeca

Fatherhood and Legacy

 

During the post-screening Q&A, Wizkid opened up about how fatherhood has reshaped his perspective. “My children remind me what’s truly important,”  he shared. This heartfelt moment added depth to the premiere, revealing how the global superstar balances fame with personal life.  

 

Wizkid smiles alongside partner Jada Pollock and their daughter on the red carpet

Wizkid and his daughter at Tribeca

The documentary has already generated significant attention, with HBO Documentary Films securing distribution rights—though an official release date remains unannounced. Due to overwhelming demand, festival organizers added two additional screenings, with queues forming hours in advance. Industry insiders predict the film will not only delight Wizkid’s fans but also introduce Afrobeats to broader audiences.  

 

Wizkid smiles alongside partner Jada Pollock and their daughter on the red carpet

Wizkid

A Celebration of Culture and Identity

  

More than just a music documentary, “Wizkid: Long Live Lagos” is a tribute to heritage, ambition, and artistic evolution. The premiere itself became a cultural event, celebrating both Wizkid’s achievements and the enduring influence of Lagos. The evening underscored the human story behind the global phenomenon—proving that even superstars cherish their roots and loved ones above all else.  

 

Wizkid smiles alongside partner Jada Pollock and their daughter on the red carpet

Wizkid, his partner Jada Pollock, his daughter and other members of his crew

For those eager to experience it, the documentary will screen again at Tribeca on June 11, offering another chance to witness this compelling fusion of music and personal history.  

 

Read Also: Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and Others Set to Light Up Africa’s Biggest Music Festival in Morocco

Continue Reading

Celebrity News

Tems Claims Her Crown at Billboard Global Power Players Event

Published

on

When Tems accepted the Diamond Award at the Billboard Global Power Players ceremony in London, it wasn’t just another trophy, it was a milestone. The Nigerian artist, whose sound has reshaped the global music landscape, stood proudly as the industry honored not just her talent, but the cultural wave she represents. And true to form, she did it with the same effortless magnetism that defines her career.  

 

Tems shines at the Billboard Global Power Players event in London

Dressed in a sky-blue dress—sculpted, sleek, and subtly daring. The dress, from Schiaparelli’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection had Tems embodying the confidence of an artist who’s learned to own her space. The gown’s deep sweetheart neckline and off-shoulder sleeves framed her silhouette with understated elegance, while a bold, twisted fabric braid running down the front added just enough edge to remind everyone: she plays by her own rules.  

 

Tems shines at the Billboard Global Power Players event in London

Temsbaby at Billboard Global Power Players Event Awards

But the night wasn’t about the outfit. It was about the recognition—a moment Tems acknowledged with characteristic grace. 

 

“Being African and a musician is a whole new world,and Billboard has championed not just our music, but the culture behind it.” 

 

Her words cut to the heart of why this award matters. From Lagos to London, Tems has spent years bending genres, blending influences, and proving that African artists don’t need to conform to global expectations—they can redefine them. The Diamond Award isn’t just a celebration of her success; it’s a signal that the industry is finally catching up.  

Tems shines at the Billboard Global Power Players event in London

Tems

Even her styling whispered quiet rebellion. Her hair, softly curled by Yluxe, and her warm, bronzed makeup by Kayla Perez, kept the focus on her presence rather than flashy theatrics. Because when you’re making history, you don’t need gimmicks, you just need to be seen.  

 

Surely, as the applause echoed through the room, one thing was clear: Tems wasn’t just collecting an award. She was claiming her place in the story of music. And if this night was any indication, she’s only just begun.  

 

Read Also: Tems on the Billboard Cover: A Deep Dive into Her Power Style

Continue Reading

Celebrity News

From Nollywood to the Navy: Grace Bassey, Former Nollywood Actress,Joins the U.S Navy.

Published

on

By

On Monday, Grace Bassey, who you might remember as Nollywood actress Belinda Effah, surprised everyone with big news on Instagram. She shared that she joined the U.S. Navy, became a U.S. citizen, and just graduated from Navy Boot Camp!

In her own words:

“First, all glory to God. Last week, I graduated from the U.S. Navy Boot Camp as a sailor and took the oath as a citizen of the United States.”

Nigeria Raised Her. 

grace bassey

Born and raised in Nigeria, Grace first came to prominence through Nollywood, Nigeria’s thriving film industry. Her performances captured the hearts of many as she featured in popular Nollywood productions  like Tinsel, Bambitious, Shallow waters and a lot more. 

Read Also: Xclusivstars Fashion Roundup: Top 5 Celeb Looks of the Week  

However, her dreams extended beyond acting. She moved to the United States and began pursuing her dream of becoming a sailor. She had to enlist in the U.S. Navy. She summed it up in her post: ‘Nigeria raised me. America challenged me. I stand today stronger and more determined than ever.’

Becoming a sailor was not just a dream- it was carrying on a legacy. In her words “ In honor of my late father– Naval CDR Asido Bassey Effah”. 

 She did not do it just for herself. Grace decided to step into the shoes of her late father, this time on international soil. 

 Leaving behind a successful acting career to embrace the rigors of boot camp requires extraordinary courage. From memorizing scripts to learning drills, the transition demanded mental strength, physical endurance, and an unwavering belief in her purpose.

 

Conclusion.

grace bassey

Whether she continues in the Navy, explores public service, or even returns to the arts, one thing is clear: Grace Bassey is a force to be reckoned with. A woman of faith, courage, and deep conviction, she’s shown us all that you can change paths without losing direction.

To Grace Charis Bassey, congratulations.

Continue Reading

Trending