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Wizkid, whose real name is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is a Nigerian vocalist, songwriter, and music entrepreneur who has risen to become one of Africa’s most impactful and prosperous performers. Renowned for his distinctive voice, trademark style, and international collaborations, Wizkid has established a presence for Afrobeats on the global platform. Throughout the years, he has garnered numerous honors and cultivated a reputation as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most esteemed entertainers.
Early Life and Education
Wizkid was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, within a large, religiously varied family. His father adheres to Islam, whereas his mother is a devoted Christian. As the youngest child and sole son among 13 siblings, he faced a unique upbringing.
From an early age, Wizkid exhibited a keen interest in music and began performing in his church choir. At the age of 11, he released a gospel album under the stage name Lil Prinz, although the project did not attain commercial success. Despite family disapproval, his passion for music motivated him to seek a balance between his education and his musical pursuits.
Initially, he entered Lagos State University (LASU) but withdrew due to academic challenges. He subsequently attended Lead City University in Ibadan, but left after two semesters to focus on his musical career.
Music Career
In 2009, Wizkid joined Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), founded by the Nigerian musician Banky W. His initial major collaboration was co-writing “Omoge You Too Much” for Banky W’s album. The subsequent year, he released his breakout single “Holla At Your Boy,” which became an anthem among the youth and earned him the Next Rated Award at The Headies 2011.
His debut album, Superstar, launched in 2011, showcased a fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and R&B. This project included hits such as “Don’t Dull”, “Tease Me”, and “Pakurumo,” which solidified his prominence in Nigeria’s music landscape.
In 2012, Wizkid collaborated with his labelmates on the compilation album Empire Mates State of Mind. Shortly thereafter, he commenced working on his sophomore album.
International Breakthrough and Collaborations
Wizkid’s second album, Ayo, released in 2014, featured guest artists such as Femi Kuti, Akon, Tyga, Phyno, and others. The album included popular tracks like “Jaiye Jaiye” and “Ojuelegba,” with the latter gaining worldwide recognition, particularly after Drake and Skepta’s remix.
In 2016, he achieved global fame by appearing on Drake’s “One Dance,” which topped charts in over 15 nations and secured a place in the Guinness World Records. This moment marked a pivotal shift in his career.
His third album, Sounds from the Other Side (2017), included international artists such as Chris Brown, Drake, and Ty Dolla $ign. In 2019, he teamed up with Beyoncé on the Grammy-winning track “Brown Skin Girl” from The Lion King: The Gift album.
Recent Projects and Global Recognition
Wizkid’s fourth studio album, Made in Lagos (2020), was an enormous triumph both locally and globally. The leading single “Essence” featuring Tems became the first Nigerian composition to appear on the Billboard Hot 100. A remix with Justin Bieber catapulted the song into the top 10, receiving Grammy nominations and propelling Wizkid’s streaming figures.
He subsequently released More Love, Less Ego in 2022, and in November 2024, his sixth album, Morayo, was unveiled, featuring Asake, Brent Faiyaz, Jazmine Sullivan, Tiakola, and Anaïs Cardot. The lead single, “Piece of My Heart,” premiered in October 2024.
Wizkid’s collaboration with Asake on “MMS” received a nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards, increasing his total Grammy nominations to six.
Discography Overview
Albums
- Superstar (2011)
- Ayo (2014)
- Sounds from the Other Side (2017)
- Made in Lagos (2020)
- More Love, Less Ego (2022)
- Morayo (2024)
EPs
- Soundman Vol. 1 (2019)
- S2 (2023)
Hit Singles
- “Holla at Your Boy”
- “Ojuelegba”
- “Come Closer” ft. Drake
- “Essence” ft. Tems
- “Ginger” ft. Burna Boy
- “Mood,” “Bad To Me,” “Piece of My Heart,” and more
Awards and Achievements
Wizkid is amongst the most decorated African artists. His accolades include:
- Grammy Award – Best Music Video (with Beyoncé for Brown Skin Girl)
- BET Awards – 4 victories
- MOBO Awards – 6 victories
- Billboard Music Awards, MTV VMAs, iHeartRadio Awards, and more
- Guinness World Records – for “One Dance”
- Apple Music Artist of the Year (Africa) – 2021
- Most awarded artist in The Headies history
Personal Life and Children
Wizkid is a parent to three sons:
- Boluwatife Balogun (with Oluwanisola Ogudugu)
- Ayodeji Balogun Jr. (with Binta Diallo)
- Zion Balogun (with Jada Pollock)
Despite not being married, he is reportedly in a relationship with Jada Pollock, who is also his manager. He spends meaningful time with his children and maintains a relatively private personal life, even amidst media speculation linking him to artists like Tems, Tiwa Savage, and Seyi Shay.
Businesses and Endorsements
Wizkid is the founder of Starboy Entertainment, a record label that has signed artists like Terri, Maleek Berry, and Legendury Beatz.
He also holds endorsement agreements with:
- Pepsi
- MTN Nigeria
- Guinness Nigeria
- UBA (United Bank for Africa)
Net Worth
As of 2025, Wizkid’s projected net worth is $50 million, making him the wealthiest musical artist in Nigeria. His fortune stems from music sales, streaming, brand endorsements, and international tours.
