Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide or Baddo, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record label executive. Renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend Yoruba, Pidgin, and English in his lyrics, Olamide has become a cultural icon in Nigeria and beyond. With a career spanning over a decade, Olamide has solidified his legacy as one of the pioneers of Nigerian street-hop music. His influence transcends music, as he has also nurtured several young artists through his record label, YBNL Nation.
Early Life and Background
Olamide was born on March 15, 1989, in Bariga, Lagos State, Nigeria. Growing up in a modest household, he was exposed to the vibrant culture and struggles of the Lagos streets, which greatly influenced his music. From a young age, Olamide showed a passion for music, often performing at local events and school gatherings.
He attended Tai Solarin University of Education, where he studied Mass Communication. While in university, Olamide’s passion for music deepened, leading him to pursue it professionally. He credits his upbringing in Bariga as a major influence on his sound and lyrics, which often reflect the hustle and resilience of Lagos life.
Music Career Beginnings
Olamide’s music career officially began in 2010 with the release of his debut single, “Eni Duro.” The song, which showcased his exceptional rap skills and street-inspired lyrics, became an instant hit and introduced him to a wider audience. His talent caught the attention of industry players, leading to the release of his debut album, “Rapsodi,” in 2011.
“Rapsodi” was a commercial success, featuring hit tracks like “Eni Duro” and collaborations with established artists. The album established Olamide as a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian music industry.
Top Hit Songs
Over the years, Olamide has delivered numerous hit songs that have dominated the airwaves and become anthems. Some of his most iconic tracks include:
1. Eni Duro
This debut single was a game-changer for Olamide, showcasing his lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
2. First of All
“First of All” became a party anthem, combining catchy beats with Olamide’s unique delivery.
3. Durosoke
A standout track from his early career, “Durosoke” cemented Olamide’s status as a hitmaker.
4. Shakiti Bobo
This dance track took Nigeria by storm, inspiring a popular dance move and becoming a staple at parties.
5. Wo!!
“Wo!!” is one of Olamide’s biggest hits, celebrated for its infectious beat and relatable lyrics.
6. Motigbana
“Motigbana” showcases Olamide’s ability to blend street-hop with mainstream Afrobeat.
7. Rock
Released in 2021, “Rock” is a mellow Afrobeat tune that highlights Olamide’s versatility.
8. Science Student
This controversial yet popular track addressed social issues while becoming a massive club hit.
Recent Songs
Olamide continues to evolve as an artist, delivering fresh sounds and maintaining relevance. Some of his recent songs include:
1. Hate Me (ft. Wande Coal)
“Hate Me” is a collaboration that blends Afrobeat with contemporary pop elements, showcasing Olamide’s lyrical depth.
2. Jinja
“Jinja” is a smooth Afrobeat tune that emphasizes Olamide’s mastery of melody and rhythm.
3. New Religion (ft. Asake)
Collaborating with his YBNL signee Asake, Olamide explores themes of faith and resilience in this chart-topping track.
4. Wound Someone
A track that delves into the gritty realities of street life, “Wound Someone” reaffirms Olamide’s connection to his roots.
5. Unruly (Album)
In 2023, Olamide released his 10th studio album, Unruly, a project that showcases his growth as an artist and his ability to stay ahead of trends.
Albums
Olamide’s discography includes several successful albums that have defined his career:
- Rapsodi (2011) – His debut album, which introduced him to the Nigerian music scene.
- YBNL (2012) – A groundbreaking album featuring hits like “First of All” and “Voice of the Street.”
- Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013) – This album earned him multiple awards and cemented his status as a superstar.
- Eyan Mayweather (2015) – A commercial success with tracks like “Bobo” and “Lagos Boys.”
- The Glory (2016) – Celebrating his journey from the streets to stardom.
- Carpe Diem (2020) – A fusion of Afrobeat and contemporary sounds, featuring hits like “Infinity.”
- Unruly (2023) – A mature and experimental album that reflects Olamide’s growth as an artist.
Awards and Achievements
Olamide’s contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, both locally and internationally. Some of his most notable awards include:
- Headies Awards:
- Best Rap Album (2013, 2014, 2015)
- Artist of the Year (2015)
- Album of the Year (2013 for Baddest Guy Ever Liveth)
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards:
- Best Indigenous Artist (2013)
- Album of the Year (2015)
- City People Entertainment Awards:
- Rap Artiste of the Year (2014)
- Best Rap Album (2016)
- MTV Africa Music Awards:
- Best Hip-Hop Act (2015)
- Soundcity MVP Awards:
- African Artist of the Year (2015)
- BET Awards:
- Nominated for Best International Act (2015)
Olamide’s consistent ability to deliver hits and influence the music industry has solidified his legacy.
Collaborations
Olamide’s collaborative spirit has led to several iconic partnerships with artists across different genres. Some of his standout collaborations include:
1. Phyno
Olamide and Phyno share a strong musical bond, collaborating on several hits like “Ghost Mode” and their joint album 2 Kings.
2. Wizkid
The duo worked together on tracks like “Kana,” blending their unique styles for massive hits.
3. Tiwa Savage
Their collaboration on “Standing Ovation” is a celebration of African success and resilience.
4. Burna Boy
Olamide and Burna Boy teamed up for “Omo Wobe Anthem,” a track that showcases their street credibility.
5. Asake
As the mentor of Asake, Olamide has collaborated with him on several tracks, including “New Religion” and “Amapiano.”
6. Davido
Olamide and Davido collaborated on the hit track “Summer Body,” blending Afrobeat with pop elements.
YBNL Nation: Building a Legacy
In 2012, Olamide founded YBNL Nation, a record label that has become one of the most influential in Nigeria. Under his leadership, YBNL has signed and nurtured talents like:
- Lil Kesh
- Adekunle Gold
- Fireboy DML
- Asake
Olamide’s commitment to supporting young artists has earned him respect as a leader and mentor in the industry.
Impact on the Nigerian Music Scene
Olamide’s influence on the Nigerian music industry is immense. He popularized street-hop, a subgenre of Afrobeat that reflects the hustle and culture of the streets. His ability to mix Yoruba, English, and Pidgin in his lyrics has made his music relatable to a diverse audience.
Beyond his music, Olamide has played a crucial role in shaping the careers of other artists. His record label, YBNL Nation, is a testament to his vision of creating opportunities for young talents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Olamide
1. What is Olamide’s real name?
Olamide’s full name is Olamide Gbenga Adedeji.
2. When did Olamide start his music career?
Olamide began his professional music career in 2010 with the release of his debut single, “Eni Duro.”
3. What genre of music does Olamide perform?
Olamide’s music is primarily Afrobeat and street-hop, with elements of rap and pop.
4. What is Olamide’s biggest song?
Some of Olamide’s biggest songs include “Shakiti Bobo,” “Wo!!,” and “Science Student.”
5. How old is Olamide?
As of 2024, Olamide is 35 years old.
6. Has Olamide won international awards?
Olamide has received several international nominations, including a BET Award nomination for Best International Act.
7. Is Olamide married?
Yes, Olamide is married to Adebukunmi Aisha Suleiman, and they have two children.
8. What does YBNL stand for?
YBNL stands for “Yahoo Boy No Laptop,” a phrase that symbolizes making it big through legitimate means, especially in the creative industry.
9. Does Olamide still release music?
Yes, Olamide continues to release music, with his latest album, Unruly, released in 2023.
10. How can fans connect with Olamide?
Olamide is active on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Personal Life
Olamide is known for being private about his personal life. He is married to Adebukunmi Aisha Suleiman, and the couple has two sons. Despite his fame, Olamide remains grounded and often speaks about the importance of family and humility.
Conclusion
Olamide’s journey from the streets of Bariga to becoming one of Africa’s biggest music stars is a testament to his talent, resilience, and vision. With a career defined by groundbreaking music, mentorship, and cultural influence, Olamide continues to inspire millions. His legacy as the king of Nigerian street-hop and a trailblazer in the industry is secure, and his contributions will be celebrated for generations to come.
