Olamide: The Street-Hop King of Nigerian Music

Olamide Adedeji, known mononymously as Olamide, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and record executive who has defined a generation of indigenous street-hop. Hailing from Bariga, Lagos, his prolific output and sharp, Yoruba-language lyricism have made him one of Africa's most commercially successful artists, with numerous platinum-selling albums and chart-dominating singles.

Early career

Born on March 15, 1989, Olamide's musical journey began in the bustling streets of Lagos. He started rapping in his teens, drawing inspiration from both local and international hip-hop, and caught his first major break in 2010 with the release of "Eni Duro" under the now-defunct Coded Tunes record label.

Breakthrough

His 2011 debut studio album, Rapsodi, solidified his potential, but it was the 2012 follow-up, YBNL, that launched him into superstardom. The album, named after his self-founded YBNL Nation label, was a massive commercial success, driven by hits like "First of All" and "Voice of the Street," and earned multiple awards and certifications.

Key tracks

Eni Duro — This 2010 single served as his powerful introduction to the mainstream Nigerian music scene.

Voice of the Street — A definitive anthem from the YBNL album that cemented his role as the authentic narrator of everyday Lagos life.

Wo — The 2017 viral hit became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing his ability to create massively popular dance records with simple, catchy hooks.

Motigbana — This 2015 collaboration with Burna Boy highlighted his influence and successful partnerships within the industry.

Science Student — A controversial yet chart-topping 2018 track that demonstrated his fearless approach to topical songwriting.

Olamide's dominance continued through the 2010s with a relentless series of successful albums like Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013) and Street OT (2014). As the head of YBNL Nation, he has been instrumental in launching the careers of major acts like Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, and Asake, proving his sharp ear for talent. His collaborations span the African continent and beyond, working with stars from Phyno and Wizkid to French Montana.

Fans of Olamide's raw, Yoruba-centric rap and street anthems should also explore the catalogs of similar Nigerian hitmakers. Check out Phyno for a similar blend of indigenous language and hard-hitting hip-hop. Discover Zlatan for another voice in the Nigerian street-hop scene known for energetic delivery. Listen to Rema for a newer generation of Afro-fusion artists influenced by Olamide's lane. Explore Asake for the Amapiano-infused street-pop of a direct YBNL Nation signee.

Olamide's extensive catalog of hits ensures his music is a staple on Afrobeat and African pop radio stations worldwide, from major FM broadcasters in Nigeria to dedicated online radio streams focusing on the continent's hottest sounds.

The music of Olamide, a cornerstone of modern Nigerian street-hop, can be heard regularly on the radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his vast discography and latest hits by tuning into the Afrobeat and African music stations available on onairium.com.