Olamide Adedeji Olowopope, widely known as Olamide or Olamide Baddo, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter whose music has reshaped the Nigerian hip-hop and Afrobeat scenes. Born on March 15, 1989, in Bariga, Lagos, Nigeria, Olamide is one of the most influential and respected musicians in Africa. Known for his dynamic style, he seamlessly blends indigenous Yoruba lyrics with hip-hop beats and Afrobeat rhythms, carving out a unique niche in the music industry.
Olamide’s musical journey began at an early age in Bariga, a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood in Lagos. Growing up in a household where music was an integral part of life, he was inspired by the sounds of Nigerian street culture, local genres like Fuji, and international hip-hop. He developed a passion for music and started rapping in Yoruba, his native language, which set him apart from many of his contemporaries in Nigeria and beyond. His raw and relatable storytelling, combined with his unique flow, quickly captured the attention of music lovers.
Olamide’s breakthrough came in 2010 with the release of his debut album, Rapsodi. The album, which featured songs like “Eni Duro” and “Omo To Shan”, introduced Olamide to the Nigerian music scene. His blend of hip-hop with the influence of Afrobeat and street culture won him a growing fan base. Rapsodi marked the beginning of Olamide’s rise to stardom, showcasing his ability to use the Yoruba language as a powerful tool for connection with listeners across Nigeria and the diaspora.
In 2011, Olamide released his sophomore album, YBNL (Yahoo Boy No Laptop), which was a turning point in his career. The album featured several hits, including “Superstar”, “First of All”, and “Voice of the Street”, with themes that resonated deeply with Nigerian youth. YBNL was a commercial success and cemented Olamide’s status as one of the biggest names in Nigerian music. The album’s success also marked the beginning of his artistic evolution, with Olamide further blending hip-hop, Afrobeat, and street pop into his distinct sound.
Following the success of YBNL, Olamide released multiple albums, each showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. His third album, Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013), included hits like “Durosoke”, “Baddo”, and “Skelewu”, which helped solidify his place in the hearts of music lovers across Nigeria. Street OT (2014), his fourth album, further reinforced his position as one of Nigeria’s top stars, with songs like “Shakitibobo” and “Eleda Mi” dominating the airwaves.
In 2015, Olamide’s album Eyan Mayweather featured another set of successful singles, including “Bobo”, “Lagos Boys”, and “Turn Up”. The album was both commercially successful and critically acclaimed, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist and his ability to make music that appealed to both mainstream and street audiences.
One of Olamide’s defining moments came in 2012 when he founded his own record label, YBNL Nation. The label has since become one of Nigeria’s most influential music labels, signing and nurturing the careers of several successful artists, including Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, and Fireboy DML. Under the YBNL banner, Olamide has been able to not only elevate his own career but also contribute significantly to the development of the Nigerian music industry by providing a platform for emerging talents.
In addition to his album releases, Olamide has become known for his street credibility, energetic performances, and relatable lyrics that speak to the everyday experiences of the Nigerian youth. His ability to use the Yoruba language in his music, combined with his unapologetically street-savvy image, has made him a voice for the voiceless in many respects.
Olamide has won numerous awards over the years, including multiple Headies Awards, Nigeria Entertainment Awards, and MTV Africa Music Awards. His music has been recognized for its innovation, and he is often celebrated for his contributions to the global appeal of Afrobeat music. In 2020, his album Carpe Diem was released, featuring songs like “Infinity” and “Loading”, both of which quickly became fan favorites.
Beyond his musical career, Olamide has used his platform to support youth empowerment and social change. He remains a key figure in Nigerian music, a trailblazer for Yoruba rap, and an advocate for African culture on the global stage. His influence continues to grow as he evolves artistically and collaborates with artists from various genres across the world.
Through his consistency, work ethic, and influence, Olamide has cemented his place as one of the most important and beloved artists in Nigerian music, and he continues to impact the global music scene.