Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, is one of Africa’s most influential and globally recognized musicians. As a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer, Wizkid has played a pivotal role in shaping the Afrobeats genre, elevating African music to international prominence. With multiple awards, record-breaking achievements, and collaborations with global artists, Wizkid has cemented his legacy as a cultural icon.
This in-depth biography explores Wizkid’s early life, music career, business ventures, personal life, controversies, philanthropy, and global influence in detail.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. He was raised in a polygamous household, with his father, Alhaji Muniru Olatunji Balogun, practicing Islam, and his mother, Jane Dolapo Balogun, being a Pentecostal Christian. Growing up in a household with diverse religious backgrounds, Wizkid was exposed to various influences, shaping his perspective on life and music.
Education and Musical Interests
- Attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School for his early education.
- Initially enrolled at Lagos State University (LASU) but later transferred to Lead City University, where he eventually dropped out to pursue music full-time.
- Developed an early passion for music, heavily influenced by King Sunny Ade, Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and his mother’s gospel music preferences.
- Spent significant time in Ojuelegba, Lagos, which later inspired one of his biggest songs.
Music Career and Rise to Fame
Early Beginnings (2001-2009)
- Formed a music group called Glorious Five with friends from church, recording an album that saw little commercial success.
- Started frequenting OJB Jezreel’s studio, where he learned the craft of songwriting and music production, working alongside future industry legends.
- Collaborated with Naeto C, M.I, Banky W, and 2Face Idibia, gaining industry recognition before signing a record deal.
Breakthrough with ‘Superstar’ Album (2009-2011)
- Signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E.), led by Banky W, a crucial step in his career.
- Released “Holla at Your Boy” in 2010, which became a nationwide sensation and established him as a rising star in Nigeria.
- Dropped his debut album, ‘Superstar’ (2011), featuring hits like:
- Tease Me/Bad Guys
- Pakurumo
- Don’t Dull
- Love My Baby
- Won Next Rated Award at The Headies 2011, solidifying his industry position.
Expansion to International Markets (2012-2015)
- Established his record label, Starboy Entertainment, in 2013, aiming to support upcoming talents and create a unique Afrobeats sound.
- Released ‘Ayo’ (2014), featuring critically acclaimed singles:
- Jaiye Jaiye (feat. Femi Kuti)
- Ojuelegba – A song that later caught the attention of Drake and Skepta, leading to international collaborations.
- Collaborated with Drake on “One Dance” (2016), which topped the Billboard Hot 100, making Wizkid the first Nigerian artist to achieve this feat.
Global Breakthrough with ‘Sounds from the Other Side’ (2016-2018)
- Signed a multi-album deal with RCA Records and Sony Music, boosting his global reach.
- Released his third studio album, ‘Sounds from the Other Side’ (2017), a fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and R&B, featuring international artists:
- Chris Brown (“African Bad Gyal”)
- Ty Dolla $ign (“One for Me”)
- Drake (“Come Closer”)
- Performed at Coachella 2018, further elevating his presence in the international music scene.
Made in Lagos and Global Recognition (2020-Present)
- Released ‘Made in Lagos’ (2020), which became one of the most successful Afrobeats albums ever.
- Hit single “Essence” (feat. Tems) became an international anthem, breaking multiple records:
- First Nigerian song to chart on Billboard Hot 100.
- Achieved platinum certification in the U.S.
- Featured a remix with Justin Bieber, gaining global traction.
- Released ‘More Love, Less Ego’ (2022), further solidifying his place as a global artist.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Record Label and Investments
- Founded Starboy Entertainment, signing artists like L.A.X, Maleek Berry, and Terri.
- Owns real estate properties in Lagos, Ghana, and London.
- Invests in fashion and tech startups.
Major Endorsement Deals
- Pepsi – Multi-million dollar ambassador deal since 2012.
- MTN & GLO – Telecommunications endorsements.
- Guinness Nigeria – Headlined the Guinness “World of More” concert.
- Nike & Puma – Global sportswear partnerships.
- UBA Bank – Brand ambassador for United Bank of Africa.
Personal Life and Family
Relationships and Children
- Has three children with different women:
- Boluwatife Balogun – Son with Shola Ogudu.
- Ayodeji Balogun Jr. – Son with Binta Diallo.
- Zion Balogun – Son with Jada Pollock, his manager and current partner.
Feuds with Colleagues
- Davido – One of the most publicized feuds in the Nigerian music industry, stemming from rivalry over dominance in the Afrobeats space. They have exchanged social media jabs but have also reconciled at various points.
- Burna Boy – The feud started over claims of supremacy in the Afrobeats genre, with both artists throwing subtle and direct shades at each other.
- Banky W – Wizkid’s fallout with his former label boss at E.M.E. led to disagreements over contracts and royalties, though they have since reconciled.
- Reekado Banks – Wizkid called out Reekado Banks in 2020 over a song release during the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, deeming it insensitive at the time.
Lifestyle and Assets
- Net worth estimated at $50 million+.
- Owns luxury homes in Lagos, Accra, and London.
- Drives exotic cars like Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Panamera, Bentley Continental GT.
- Travels on private jets and yachts, often spotted in high-profile events worldwide.
Legacy and Future Prospects
- Continues to push Afrobeats globally.
- Expanding Starboy Entertainment into fashion, tech, and real estate.
- Remains a cultural icon, inspiring the next generation of African artists.
Conclusion
Wizkid’s rise from a local Lagos artist to an international superstar is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and vision. He has broken barriers, set records, and transformed African music into a global force. His legacy continues to grow, with his influence shaping the future of Afrobeats and contemporary music.
