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

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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.

 

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Wizkid’s Path to International Stardom Captured in HBO’s “Long Live Lagos”

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When Wizkid: Long Live Lagos premieres on HBO on 12 December 2025, viewers will see more than just performances and red carpets. Directed by Karam Gill, the documentary traces Wizkid’s journey from his early days in Surulere, Lagos, to becoming one of Africa’s most recognized musical exports on the international stage.

Wizkid – Instagram

The film highlights Wizkid’s beginnings in Surulere, where he developed his sound amid the daily challenges of Lagos life. From recording early tracks like Holla at Your Boy to collaborating with top international artists, the documentary shows how he steadily built a global audience. It also explores the practical and personal hurdles he faced along the way, including balancing local relevance with international appeal.

A major highlight is Wizkid’s 29 July 2023 concert at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, where he became the first African artist to headline the 60,000-capacity venue. The documentary captures not just the performance but also the preparation, backstage pressures, and the personal significance of the milestone for both the artist and his fans.

Wizkid – Instagram

The film includes insights from collaborators, cultural commentators, and management figures, such as Femi Anikulapo-Kuti, UK media personality Julie Adenuga, longtime manager Sunday Are, and partner-manager Jada Pollock. These voices provide context for Wizkid’s career and the broader rise of Afrobeats on the global stage.

Beyond individual achievements, Long Live Lagos examines how African artists navigate international markets and digital platforms. By showcasing Wizkid’s work ethic, collaborations, and strategic decisions, the documentary demonstrates the growing influence of African music worldwide.

Wizkid – Instagram

For fans and emerging artists, the film offers a detailed view of the milestones behind Wizkid’s success, from early Lagos recordings to sold-out international performances. It emphasizes the planning, persistence, and creativity needed to achieve global recognition without losing local roots.

Wizkid: Long Live Lagos will be available on HBO and Max for streaming, providing 85+ minutes of insight into the life and career of one of Nigeria’s biggest musical stars.

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Chioma Surprised Davido with a Hermès Haut à Courroies Bag for His Birthday

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On November 21, internationally recognized Afrobeats star Davido celebrated his 33rd birthday, but this year, the attention extended beyond him. His wife, Chioma Adeleke, surprised him with a Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) bag, a rare luxury item that drew immediate attention on social media.

The moment was captured on video and shared widely. Davido pulled the signature orange Hermès box out of its wrapping in front of family and close friends. He paused, visibly surprised. When he recognized what was inside, he looked at Chioma and said “Iyawo mi” (“my wife”), tagging her in his Instagram post.

Photo – Google

The Hermès Haut à Courroies bag is estimated to cost between $39,000 and $50,000, depending on the model and materials. The version Chioma gave him is considered rare in Hermès’s leather collection, and it is unusual for a man to receive this particular design.

Fans reacted quickly online, praising Chioma’s choice and commenting on the couple’s relationship. Davido also shared his appreciation in his Instagram post, acknowledging the gift and expressing thanks to Chioma for her thoughtfulness.

Photo – Instagram

This is not the first time the couple have exchanged high-end gifts. Previously, Davido has given Chioma multiple Hermès Birkin bags and a Richard Mille watch. Their exchanges often attract public attention, but this birthday gift stood out as an unexpected surprise.

The gift highlights both the rarity of the item and the personal significance it carried. Davido, who usually directs public attention, experienced the moment as the recipient. Chioma’s choice created a memorable occasion for him, and the video of his reaction circulated widely across social media.

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Tacha Makes History with 144 Makeovers in 24 Hours, Setting Two Guinness World Records in Lagos

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On October 11, 2025, Lagos witnessed a record-breaking beauty marathon. Nigerian media personality and entrepreneur Anita Natacha Akide also known as Tacha spent an entire day surrounded by brushes, powders, and a range of colours, completing 144 full makeovers in just 24 hours.

By the end of the challenge, she had officially earned two Guinness World Record titles: the most cosmetic makeovers in eight hours 82 looks and the most makeovers in 24 hours, totalling 144 faces, exceeding the previous mark by more than 30. Each session included a complete beauty routine: foundation, concealer, blush, two eyeshadows, mascara, lip liner and gloss, finishing powder, and shaped eyebrows.
When confirmation from Guinness World Records came through, Tacha recalled the moment vividly.

Guinness World Records: X

“I screamed, cried, hugged my sister and assistants. We were all overwhelmed. It felt like the whole of Nigeria was celebrating with me. Seeing the comments online, the love, the excitement, it felt like every person who had ever believed in me was standing right there,” she told Guinness World Records.

For Tacha, makeup has always been more than just part of her brand it’s been her space for expression. She first became drawn to beauty as a child, sneaking mascara, eyeliners, and lip gloss even when her mother, a devoted church worker, disapproved.

Tacha: Instagram

“She would throw them away, and I would save up to buy them again,”

Tacha has shared in the past. That dedication stayed with her, shaping a creative journey that led to this record-breaking achievement.

“This record was born from that same spirit, resilience and the courage to stand out. I wanted to show that Nigerian women can achieve anything they put their minds to, that creativity is powerful, and that African women deserve global recognition,” she said.

While the achievement bears her name, Tacha views it as a collective moment for those who have been told their dreams were too big.

Tacha: Instagram

“I want my story to remind the world that greatness has no geography, and that Africa’s creative power deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.”

With two new world titles and a story that connects creativity and determination, Tacha’s record-breaking day will be remembered as one of the year’s most defining beauty highlights.

 

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