The Remarkable Rise of Wizkid: A Journey from Humility to Global Superstardom

Nigerian music sensation, Ayo Balogun better known as Wizkid has taken the world by storm with his Infectious melodies and undeniable skill, firmly establishing himself as a superstar in the realm of Afrobeats music. Placing himself as an icon in the industry, the songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe earning him accolades from dedicated fans.

From his humble beginning in Ojuelegba in Lagos, to sealing shows and selling out arenas worldwide, Wizkid’s start and rise to stardom is remarkable. Let’s dive into the world of one of the biggest and most influential African artists of all time.

Wizkid’s early days and joining EME record labels

Wizkid embarked on his recording journey as a young prodigy, forming a group called the Glorious Five at the remarkable age of 11. This talented ensemble of musically gifted youngsters initially found their musical roots in the church. Wizkid’s dedication and passion led him to refine his craft, expertly weaving together infectious melodies that would go on to dominate the music charts.

Wizkid dropped out from the Lagos state university (LASU) in mid 2019 and the Lead City University as well and found his way to the music scene. This started when he got an opportunity to collaborate with several Nigerian pop artists including the late legendary OJB Jezreel, which was like a dream come true and they both created magic in his studio. 

He eventually signed a record deal with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) owned by Banky W in 2019 which brought about his big breakthrough. They produced and released “Holla at Your Boy” which was quickly embraced by fans and topped charts and won numerous awards.

His international recognition and collaboration

Wizkid’s talent has garnered international attention and recognition, propelling him to collaborate with renowned artists and producers. A notable milestone in 2016 was his partnership with Canadian rapper Drake on the chart-topping single “One Dance,” amplifying his prominence. This achievement opened doors for further collaborations, such as teaming up with Beyoncé on “Brown Skin Girl” and Chris Brown on “African Bad Gyal.” 

These collaborations not only showcased Wizkid’s versatility but also solidified his position as a formidable presence in global music. His music transcends boundaries, seamlessly blending Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop, captivating diverse audiences worldwide. Wizkid has played a pivotal role in popularizing Afrobeat on the international stage, introducing infectious rhythms and African culture to a wider audience. As a cultural ambassador, he bridges musical genres and promotes African artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

Several awards also followed his efforts like the BET Awards and MOBO Awards and of course the Grammy Award for the best music video.

The start of his record label

Wizkid took his musical talents to the entrepreneurial part at the start of his own record label, Starboy Entertainment. The record label was born out of a need to create a platform for young and upcoming artists to get to stardom. He worked effortlessly to collaborate with his signed artists and guide them through the necessary stages.

From the likes of Terri to Burna Boy, wizkid has ensured that people with great talents find their way into the Starboy family.

Wizkid philanthropic activities

Wizkid’s philanthropic endeavors extend beyond his musical accomplishments, demonstrating his active involvement in making a positive impact. He has consistently supported numerous charitable causes and initiatives, notably advocating for education and healthcare improvements in marginalized communities. 

Wizkid’s dedication to giving back to society has garnered admiration and respect that surpasses his musical talent. By using his platform and resources, he actively contributes to the betterment of others, showcasing his genuine concern for the well-being of those in need. 

Wizkid’s wealth, fame, and the women

Wizkid prefers to keep his personal life private and focuses primarily on his music career. Apart from his musical success, his personal life has attracted significant attention. He is a father to three children from different relationships. His first child, Boluwatife Balogun, was born in 2011 to his former girlfriend, Oluwanishola Ogudu. In 2016, he welcomed his second son, Ayodeji Balogun Jr., with his second baby mama, Binta Diallo. Furthermore, he has a third child named Zion Balogun, born in 2017, with his manager, Jada Pollock. 

While Wizkid has not publicly announced a marriage or wife, he has been linked to various high-profile relationships in the past, with his most notable one being with Tania Omotayo. Throughout his journey, he has had influential managers who have played vital roles in shaping his success. From 2012 to 2018, Godwin Tom managed him, securing lucrative endorsement deals and expanding his international reach. In 2018, he began working with Jada Pollock, who also became the mother of his third child. With an estimated net worth of $26 million and under Pollock’s management, Wizkid continued to thrive, solidifying his status as a global music icon.