“I was talking to his management, I didn’t want to talk to him directly because he would want to do it for free. Spoke to his team and they charged N100m. I was willing to pay. When Olamide asked them who the artiste was, they said to me and he just said NO. He won’t take it.
He said I am his sister and he knows how difficult it is to make it in the industry as a woman. That’s how he denied and guess what? He gave me the verse for Free. Good people exist and Baddo is one
— Tiwa Savage while appreciating Olamide’s free verse, to her latest song, ‘Commona’
Olamide Adedeji, better known by his stage name Olamide or Badoo, has become a household name in the Nigerian music industry.
He is celebrated for his distinctive style and impactful lyrics. Not the regular flamboyant one, perhaps, because of his style, Olamide has carved his place as a leader in Afrobeats and hip-hop. Today we look into the breakthroughs of this figure, who continue to rise and rise oddly, echoing the voice of the street.
YBNL and the rise of street music
Olamide’s journey began in the streets of Bariga, Lagos, where he honed his craft and developed his unique sound. His breakout single “Eni Duro” in 2010 marked the start of a meteoric rise to fame. With his dynamic blend of Yoruba and English lyrics, Olamide’s music resonates with a wide audience.
In 2012, Olamide founded YBNL Nation, a record label that has become a powerhouse in the Nigerian music scene. YBNL (Yahoo Boy No Laptop) has produced several stars, including Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, and Fireboy DML, Asake, Phyno, contributing significantly to the evolution of street music in Nigeria.
Making hits and more
Olamide’s discography is a testament to his versatility and creativity. From club bangers like “Bobo” and “Wo!” to introspective tracks like “Melo Melo” and “Letter to Milli,” his music captures a range of emotions and experiences. His ability to consistently release hit songs and albums has earned him numerous awards and accolades.
Recently released hit ‘Ikigai, featuring YBNL superstars Fireboy and Asake on track 3 ‘Uptown Disco’. He also teamed up with former YBNL associates Pheelz, Young Jonn, and Lil Kesh for track 7 titled ‘Synchro System’.
The project becomes Olamide’s 10th solo project and 15th total project which further stretches his discography as one of the biggest in Nigerian mainstream music since 1999.
‘Ikigai’ becomes Olamide’s first biggest opening week stream on Spotify Nigeria surpassing the 5.8 million streams of his 2023 album ‘Unruly’.
Mentorship and signings
Beyond his music, Olamide is known for his role as a mentor and talent scout. Under his guidance, artists like Lil Kesh and Fireboy DML have flourished, achieving their success in the industry. Olamide’s willingness to support and develop young talent has made him a respected figure among his peers and fans alike. In the words of Asake; “I didn’t even think Olamide was going to sign me. It occurred to me that 2022 was sealed [as a stellar career year for me] with the collaboration alone. A week after I dropped the song, Olamide called, asking that we meet.
“I tried out multiple outfits looking for something he would like to see on me. This was because Olamide was someone I respected. Before he signed me, I’d been begging Baddo since 2020 to do so.
“I got to his head and he asked if I would like to join YBNL. I said I’m ready but he asked me to go look for a lawyer and think about it. I asked him to sign me immediately. I didn’t need a lawyer because I so much loved the family.”
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What the streets say about Olamide
Phyno: “Olamide is not just a collaborator; he’s a brother. We’ve shared stages and made hits together. His passion for music and his dedication to uplifting others are truly inspiring.”
Fireboy DML: “Being signed to YBNL changed my life. Olamide believed in me and gave me a platform to showcase my talent. He’s a mentor and a big brother.”
Wizkid: “Olamide’s work ethic is unmatched. He keeps pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the industry.”
Olamide’s contributions to music, his commitment to nurturing talent, and his ability to connect with fans on a personal level make him a true MCM. He continues to inspire a new generation of artists and music lovers, cementing his legacy as one of Nigeria’s greatest musicians.
