Wizkid Biography: Early Life, Career, Personal Life, Net Worth & Business Ventures
Song Details
- Artist: Wizkid
- Category: Biography
- Genre: Afrobeat
- Released: 2025-01-30
- Duration:
Wizkid’s Early Life & Background
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in a polygamous home with twelve female siblings and was raised by a Muslim father and a Christian mother.
From a young age, Wizkid had a deep passion for music. He started singing in his local church choir, where he honed his vocal skills. Back then, he went by the stage name “Lil Prinz”, forming a music group with some friends before eventually going solo.
Wizkid Music Career Beginnings
Wizkid’s big break came in 2009 when he got signed to Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), a record label owned by Banky W. He caught the attention of many with his unique voice and Afrobeat style.
In 2010, he released “Holla at Your Boy”, the lead single from his debut album “Superstar” (2011). The song became a massive hit, making him one of the fastest-rising young stars in Nigeria. The album also featured bangers like “Pakurumo”, “Tease Me”, and “Don’t Dull”, cementing his place in the industry.
Wizkid Rise to Global Fame
After the success of his debut album, Wizkid took things to the next level. In 2013, he founded his own record label, Starboy Entertainment. That same year, he dropped more hits like “Jaiye Jaiye” and “On Top Your Matter”.
His second studio album, “Ayo”, came in 2014, featuring major hits like “Ojuelegba”, which caught the attention of international artists. The song’s remix featuring Drake and Skepta boosted Wizkid’s global recognition.
Wizkid International Breakthrough & “One Dance”
In 2016, Wizkid made history by featuring on Drake’s song “One Dance”, which became a global chart-topper. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making Wizkid the first Nigerian artist to achieve this milestone.
That same year, he signed a major deal with RCA Records/Sony Music, pushing his career to an international level.
Wizkid Major Albums & Achievements
- Sounds from the Other Side (2017) – His first international album featured songs like “Come Closer” (feat. Drake) and “Daddy Yo”.
- Made in Lagos (2020) – This was a game-changer! The album featured the global hit “Essence” (feat. Tems), which became the first Nigerian song to enter the Billboard Hot 100 and got a remix with Justin Bieber.
- More Love, Less Ego (2022) – Another successful album that continued his legacy in Afrobeats.
Wizkid Awards & Recognitions
Wizkid has won over 80 awards, including:
- Grammy Award (2021) – For his work on Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl”
- MTV Europe Music Awards
- BET Awards (multiple wins)
- MOBO Awards
- Billboard Music Award
Wizkid Personal Life
Wizkid has three children from different relationships. His first son, Boluwatife, was born in 2011. He later had two more sons, Ayo and Zion, with different partners. Although he owns to keep his personal life private, he has been linked to various relationships, including with Tiwa Savage and Jada Pollock (his manager and baby mama).
Wizkid’s Impact on Afrobeats
Wizkid is one of the biggest figures in Afrobeats, helping to push the genre to a global audience. With collaborations with stars like Beyoncé, Drake, Chris Brown, Skepta, and Justin Bieber, he remains a top name in world music.
Wizkid Net Worth & Business Ventures
As of 2024, Wizkid’s estimated net worth is over $30 million, making him one of the richest musicians in Africa. He has endorsement deals with Pepsi, MTN, Ciroc, Puma, and UBA.
Final Thoughts
From a young boy in Surulere to a global superstar, Wizkid’s journey is truly inspiring. He remains one of the most influential African musicians, constantly breaking boundaries and putting Nigeria on the world map.
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