One could barely have predicted 15 years ago that Afrobeats would suddenly be arguably the face of African music, headlining big international festivals, and collaborating with international icons.
The name, Wizkid, might have sounded strange outside Nigeria’s borders. However, his story is one of unrelenting ambition.
Let’s go all the way back to where it started: Surulere is one of those areas in Lagos that is home to creatives and artists. It was there that Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun picked up the mic and began to dream.
His breakthrough came with “Don’t Dull” and “Holla at Your Boy”; setting the stage for what was to follow. And then, over time, everybody went: “Who’s this Wizkid?” Building from that distinctly Afrobeats foundation, he added just a little dancehall and just a bit of pop.
Wizkid had that uncanny ability to mix his experiences into his lyrics; the result was always a realistic picture of life in Lagos. Songs like “Ojuelegba” became global anthems, attracting star artists such as the Canadian rapper and singer Drake and UK’s Skepta, capturing the struggle and aspiration of a generation. And so, when he sang his journey through the hustle of everyday life, he narrated the collective experience of many millions. The lyrics connected deeply with people, who found solace in his words.
Fast forward to 2024: Wizkid has risen to heights most can only dream of selling out arenas across the world, collaborating with the biggest artists in the world, and earning accolades that speak to his influence in the music industry.
But despite the monumental success, he always returned to his roots. To Surulere, the streets that raised him, and the fans who loved him before the world smiled on him. And now, as we impatiently wait for the release of his next album, Morayo, in a few weeks, the excitement is palpable. Slated for release come November 22nd, just like the Global album “Made In Lagos” — unarguably one of the best contemporary African albums of the decade — this body of work represents another important milestone in the shaping of Wizkid.
The social media teasers and the recent single “Piece of My Heart”, featuring Brent Faiyaz, have already set the stage for what is looking to be an extraordinary body of work. It’s one sultry fusion of Afrobeats and R&B, showing how versatile Wizkid can get, willing to push boundaries musically.
Wizkid has always been good at creating records that touch many bases, and with Morayo, the expectation is high. One thing is clear, though: the fans are ready to take this exciting ride with him, wondering where this new tide will take his music.
