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Wizkid’s Musical Journey: What you don’t know
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.
When musical legends come together, magic happens. That’s exactly what fans witnessed when Don Jazzy, the iconic music producer, joined forces with Johnny Drille, the soulful Mavin Records star, to deliver a breathtaking live rendition of “How Are You My Friend.”
This collaboration isn’t just another duet—it’s a heartfelt celebration of friendship, music, and the power of genuine connections.
The Heart Behind the Song
Johnny Drille
“How Are You My Friend?” has been a fan favorite since its release in 2022, resonating deeply with audiences for its authentic lyrics and relatable message. It’s a song that reminds us to check on our loved ones, no matter how busy life gets.
Johnny Drille’s soulful voice and heartfelt delivery have always been the song’s core, but adding Don Jazzy’s deep harmonies and signature charm elevated this performance to a whole new level. The live performance, captured in a recently shared Instagram reel, showcases the duo in an intimate setting, harmonizing effortlessly while conveying raw emotion.
Why This Collaboration Matters
Don Jazzy
Don Jazzy, the Mavins Producer who is known for his larger-than-life personality and unmatched production skills, rarely steps into the spotlight as a vocalist. This makes his duet with Johnny Drille even more special because, more than just another renderation, it’s proof of his humility and love for the art of music. It’s a reminder that music is not just about beats and rhythms but about connection and vulnerability.
Johnny Drille, on the other hand, continues to cement his place as one of Nigeria’s most talented singer-songwriters. His ability to tell stories through music, combined with Don Jazzy’s expertise, has once again proven why Mavin Records remains a powerhouse in the African music scene.
Mavins Producer, Don Jazzy
Fan Reactions
Instagram is buzzing with love for the duo, especially for Don Jazzy’s beautiful harmonization.
“I just smiled all through the video… The lyrics of this song is everything emotional!’’
‘’My favorite combo!”
“The moment I heard ‘’Don Jazzy,’’ I knew I’m about to be blessed… There’s an understanding to rhythm, tempo, and melody that he has and to be honest, everything about Don Jazzy inspires me. Having Don Baba’s vocals on your song just change the game.”
These reactions highlight the emotional impact of the song and the joy of seeing these two musical legends collaborate on such a beautiful song.
More Than Just A Performance
This performance isn’t just about music; it’s a message. As we go through life, it’s easy to lose touch with people we care about. “How Are You My Friend?” serves as a gentle reminder to pause, reach out, and check on our friends.
As the festive season approaches, this collaboration feels even more timely, encouraging us to value our relationships and nurture meaningful connections.
Nigerian Singer and Songwriter, Johnny Drille
Don Jazzy and Johnny Drille have given fans a moment to cherish with this beautiful rendition of “How Are You My Friend?” It’s not just a song; it’s a movement—a call to action for kindness, empathy, and staying connected.
If you haven’t watched this heartfelt performance yet, now’s the time. Catch the full reel here and let yourself be reminded of the simple beauty of checking in on those you care about.
The world of luxury, excellence, and success just got brighter as Kika Osunde, popularly known as Kika Good Hair, storms the internet with her brand new Mercedes G63, which she nicknamed “Raven” in her introductory post.
Kika Osunde is a name synonymous with beauty, elegance, excellence, determination, and innovation. She is the founder and duo behind the globally acclaimed luxury hair brand called “Good Hair Ltd.”
Over the years, Kika has proven to herself and her fans that hard work is a necessity for successful living and that any height of luxury is attainable when we are focused and determined.
Cars like the Mercedes G63 are more than just a machine, for people like Kika Osunde they symbolize growth, success, and reward for a woman who has mastered the art of turning her dreams into reality.
As we toast to Kika’s new achievement, let’s remember that hard work and diligence pay off and life is sweet when you step into it in grand style like Kika walking boldly into her G-wagon named Ravin!
Watch the video here.
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Former Big Brother Naija star Kokobykhloe recently celebrated her birthday in true Lagos style, throwing a glamorous party that was nothing short of spectacular. Known for her bold personality and love for fashion, Khloe’s celebration was the talk of the town, attended by several high-profile friends and industry icons.
The event was hosted at an upscale Lagos venue, decked out in chic decor that matched Khloe’s unique style. From elegant floral arrangements to dazzling lights, the setup reflected a perfect blend of luxury and sophistication. Guests were greeted with a vibrant ambiance, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
Kokobykhloe
Khloe herself was the star of the evening, making a grand entrance in a show-stopping outfit that quickly became a highlight of the night. She changed into multiple outfits throughout the evening, each more glamorous than the last, showcasing her signature style and love for bold fashion statements.
The guest list included some of Nigeria’s biggest stars, influencers, and socialites, all dressed to impress. Attendees took to social media to share their excitement, giving fans a glimpse of the fabulous evening. With music, laughter, and nonstop energy, the celebration embodied the spirit of Lagos nightlife.
Kokobykhloe
One of the most memorable moments of the night was the cake-cutting ceremony. Khloe’s cake was a work of art in itself, designed to reflect her personality—elegant yet playful. The birthday girl took a moment to thank her friends and fans for their love and support, expressing gratitude for the journey she has been on since her Big Brother Naija days
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As the night progressed, the dance floor came alive, with guests dancing to some of Nigeria’s hottest tunes. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone celebrating not only Khloe’s birthday but also her achievements and the joy she brings to those around her.
Kokobykhloe
Khloe’s birthday bash was a night to remember and has since gone viral on social media, with fans and friends sharing their favorite moments. It was a celebration that truly captured her vibrant spirit and love for life, leaving everyone excited to see what she has planned next.
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