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All the Best Moments from Olamide’s OVO Arena Wembley Show

Tomide Marv — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:12:14 +0000

Yesterday, the 23rd of November 2025, made it ten years since released “Don’t Stop”, a dance-ready jam that compels a damsel not to quit dancing and have a good time. A decade later, Baddo (as he’s fondly called), hasn’t slowed down a bit. In the ten years since, he has released nine albums, become a music executive, signed global artists like Fireboy DML and Asake, and received Grammy nominations.

Olamide hasn’t stopped performing either. On the anniversary of “Don’t Stop”, the Afrobeats legend sold out OVO Arena Wembley and filled it up with his fans, passionately singing his lyrics back to him.

From his entrance and reunion with his former artists on stage to a tribute to an older Nigerian music legend, Olamide Baddo delivered an impressive to his audience in the UK.

Olamide’s grand entrance

In a bourgeois style, Olamide appeared on the OVO Arena Wembley stage: styled in a suit and pulled in a vintage car that looks like a 1958 Jaguar XK150. His entire entrance simply implied his “big-boy” arrival in London. And like that old saying goes: When in Rome, act like Romans. Olamide Baddo cosplayed the wealthy corporate-lad Londoner look, while delivering jams straight out of Lagos, Nigeria.

Olamide's epic entrance to his OVO Arena concert in Wembley, London
— EMPIRE (@EMPIRE)

The YBNL Mafia

Badoo brought out his former YBNL artists, such as Lil Kesh, Pheelz, and Asake — whom he rocked the stage with, performing songs like “Shoki”, “Amapiano” and “99”. Fireboy DML, who’s still signed to Olamide’s YBNL record label, was present, but didn’t perform.

Olamide brought out Lil Kesh at his OVO Arena Wembley concert in UK
— THE DEBUT HUB (@thedebuthub)

Olamide and Asake

His performance with Asake extinguished the rumours and flames of bad blood. This is their first reunion on stage since Asake left YBNL. It was a significant moment that showcased Olamide’s admirable leadership and cordiality with his signees, both past and present.

The moment Olamide brought out Asake at his concert at OVO Arena. See how the crowd screamed
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN)

Olamide brought more acts

Olamide’s artists weren’t the only ones present at the event. He had a lineup of established and rising stars, including Lojay, Joeboy, Seyi Vibez, Darkoo, Soundz, Ashidapo, and Daecolm (who featured on Olamide’s “99”).

Olamide brought out Joeboy at his sold-out OVO Arena Wembley concert.
— Purp Kulture (@purpkulture)

Asake and Seyi Vibez

Asake and Seyi Vibez’s warm interaction at Olamide’s Wembley show puts to rest the gossip that both artists aren’t friendly.

This was one of their rare interactions, coming after two years of comparisons due to their Fuji and Islamic music influences, and street style. At some point, fans of both have accused one of imitating the other, often leading stan wars on social media platforms like X and Instagram.

Hopefully a collaboration soon, good sirs?

Backstage at Olamide’s sold-out OVO Arena concert last night, Asake and Seyi Vibez shared a warm moment, exchanging a hug and a handshake.
— Sureboyy (@Asarailu_HipHop)

Olamide checked on fan

Olamide stopped the music while performing to ask security to check on a fan who wasn’t looking well.

The moment Olamide stopped his show mid performance and call upon security to check up on one of his fans in the crowd that isn't looking good. God bless Baddo.
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN)

He threw shots

In the middle of performing “Lambebe”, the jam he made with music producer Major Bangz in 2014, Olamide took a breather, leaving the multitude to sing.

The whole arena sang and echoed the lyrics to the song. It was an infectious head-swell moment that prompted Olamide to say, before he jumped to perform “Stupid Love”, that: “Won de wi pe baba iya won ni fans. Won ni sorire.” His statement is subliminal and a brag to anyone who thinks he has fallen off, to come and see him on a big stage, with thousands of fans in London, singing his old and new jams, word for word.

Olamide has a word for his haters
— NOTJUSTOK (@NOTJUSTOK)

Special nod to Fuji music

Olamide paid a heartwarming tribute to Fuji music by performing renditions of some Fuji hit songs. He did a rendition of Pasuma’s “Importer and Exporter” and Wasiu K1 Ayinde’s “Omo Naija.”

When Olamide performed a rendition of Pasuma's "Importer & Exporter" record and K1 De Ultimate's "Omo Naija" record. Omo! This performance too sweet.
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN)

He also performed Obesere’s “Osha Mo Condition Ti Mo Wa” from the Fuji legend’s Life In Europe album. These moments exemplify the impact and current resurgence of Fuji in contemporary Nigerian music.

This is one of my favourite Olamide's moment at his concert in OVO Arena where he sang Obesere's "Osha Mo Condition Ti Mo Wa."
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN)

Olamide turned the concert into a Tungba gathering and even told the audience to take off their jackets and dance.

The moment Olamide turned his concert to owanbę vibe and told his fans to off their jacket because tungba has started.
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN)

Olamide performed an unreleased

Another special treat here as Olamide performed an unreleased love song, before he segued into “Rock”, another romance single in his discography.

Olamide Performed An Unreleased Song @ His OVO Wembley Show

Rate/10
— HIP-HOP CABIN (@hiphopcabin)

He performed OG hits too

Olamide performed his old hot songs such as “Stupid Love”, “Motigbana”, “Melo Melo”, “The Money” featuring Davido, and “Wo” (the show’s closer).

Olamide’s closing with ‘Wo’ at his sold-out Live in concert

: OVO Arena Wembley, London
— Purp Kulture (@purpkulture)

Reactions

From fans to music critics and industry veterans like Joey Akan, Ayomide Tayo (AOT2) to ID Cabasa, the praise of Olamide is a current conversation.

I know we have a Big 3, but Olamide sits on the same level, or even higher than the hierarchy of Nigerian pop music.

As a creator, he's been a man for all seasons, over a decade of hits and deep cuts, albums that track all the eras of our cultural journey, songs that become…
— Joey Akan (@JoeyAkan)

ALSO READ: Wizkid’s Son Makes Music that’s Nothing Like His Dad’s

The 40 Greatest Olamide Songs of All Time, Ranked By Fans

Tomide Marv — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:37:27 +0000

Since bursting onto the scene with “Eni Duro” in 2010, Olamide has built a career that’s equal parts raw grit and refined genius. He didn’t just rap in Yorùbá, he made it aspirational. He has given us hits, moments, anthems, and quotables that will live in our heads forever.

Whether he’s making you shout “Wo” in the club or reflecting in bed with “Anifowose,” Olamide has always known how to balance the street with the playful and profound. He’s been the people’s artist for over a decade, a one-man hit factory with over ten albums, countless collaborations, and a sharp ear for sound.

To celebrate the release of his eleventh studio album, , we asked fans to pick their favourite songs by the legendary star. The result? The definitive ranking of the 40 greatest Olamide songs of all time.

Here are the 40 greatest songs by Olamide ranked by fans.

40. “” feat. Baseone & Reminisce (2012)

This is the first cypher track from Olamide and his YBNL label.

“This is a fire rap session. It’s bars upon bars.” — Fawas, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “O pay mi kin lowo, kin ma tabon bi Victor Ikpeba.”

39. “” (2016)

This is Baddo dispelling naysayers and their doubts.

“It’s such a feel-good song.” — Mujeed, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Dem no dey catch late come lori level yi rara.”

38. “” (2016)

This thumping rap track finds Olamide in a braggadocious mode.

“I love it because of the flow, the beat, and the mixture of Yorùbá and English in the lyrics.” — Maleek, Olamide fan since “Ilefo Illuminati.”

Standout lyrics: “Moving train lemi knock a nigga over.”

37. “” (2015)

In a groovy and celebratory mood, Olamide sings about pressure and resilience, but still declares that he’s fine or at least trying to be.

“My favourite part of the song is the chorus.” — Keji, Olamide fan since Rapsodi.

Standout lyrics: “I just wanna party party make all the bad things for my mind.”

36. “” feat. Sossick (2016)

A motivational, mellow and reflective track that shows his hustler’s heart and survival mindset.

“I fell in love with the song because of Olamide’s wordplay and Sossick’s production. They killed it.” — Joshua, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “This little light of mine, won ni kin maa fe be.”

35. “” (2011)

The title was what Olamide called himself before the Baddo title came around. It’s a loud, aggressive and rebellious rap track that marked a bold shift in how we see Olamide — not just a rapper, but a movement.

“He gave me Da Grin (RIP) vibes.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Mi o sick, emi gon gon ni sickness / I’m a murderer, Jehovah is my witness.”

34. “” (2015)

This is an anthem where Olamide celebrates wealth and Lagos energy with the confidence of a man who knows he’s made it. Released in 2015, “Lagos Boys” quickly became a party essential.

“This song still turns up at every party.” — Jide, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “I just want to party o / E gbe dollar jade o.”

33. “” feat. Wande Coal & Phyno (2016)

This is Olamide’s most covered and remixed song.

“He was just bragging and talking shit.” — Sam, Olamide fan since “Young Erikina.”

Standout lyrics: “Pound Sterling la wa n fi n se tissue.”

32. “” (2015)

Olamide is feeling grown-and-sexy here.

“The beat, Olamide’s lines, the flow.” — Enny, Olamide fan since “First of All.”

Standout lyrics: “Shey na kooro / Wa gba ponron / Malo ma fi mi we ogooro / Come to koro / Jeka soro / No dey dull me, baby, show your colour.”

31. “” (2012)

“Stupid Love” is one of Olamide’s most iconic romantic street anthems. It’s a playful, gritty, and ridiculously catchy ode to being madly and maybe foolishly in love.

“I just like the song.” — Abiola, Olamide fan since “Omo Toh Shan.”

Standout lyrics: “I’m talking to you, o lo gunyan mi kere / O fin mi jo kukere / Oya, ma lo ma mu mi sere.”

30. “” feat. Russ (2024)

Olamide blends big baller bravado with street swagger. He delivers rich lifestyle bars and gets assistance from rapper Russ to add an American flavour.

“I’m an artist and that’s one song from him I wish was mine.” — Runjozi, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “When the money enter, Habibi / I’ll definitely call you, Habibi.”

29. “” (2014)

This track is a roll call of respect, a loud salute to the street hustlers, ride-or-die friends and real ones who always had his back.

“This is the best indigenous rap song.” — Odun, Olamide fan since “Omo Toh Shan” featuring Wizkid.

Standout lyrics: “Eyin oponu apoda, oya e kun nkan tefe kun.”

28. “” feat. Adol (2011)

This song is from Olamide’s debut album, Rapsodi. Here, he urges the masses to be fully responsible for themselves, their future and humanity at large.

“The message the song carries is about standing up and being responsible. Adol was one of my favourite artists at the time. Having him and Olamide on the same song was pleasing to my heart.” — Oomar, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “See we’re just ordinary people / So get your mind right / Don’t let your mind get crippled / Life becomes hard / When we don’t take it simple / Do what you’ve gat to do / And leave a spot like pimple.”

27. “” (2016)

This is a soul-baring letter to Olamide’s son, Batifeori Maximilliano Adedeji (aka Milli), written as a mix of life lessons, encouragement and fatherly love.

“I like the storytelling and cadence. It’s an open letter to everyone.” — Emmanuel, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Nine millilitre to my head couldn’t hold me.”

26. “” (2021)

Released in 2021 as the opening track on his UY Scuti album, this song is Baddo slowing down to take stock of his journey, fame, betrayal, and life’s unpredictability. It’s a sober walk through the storm.

“It’s my favourite from Baddo.” — Olalekan, Olamide fan since “Omo Toh Shan” featuring Wizkid.

Standout lyrics: “Mercedes Benz splash dirty water for my face inna mi ghetto one day / I saw myself speeding and I did the same thing for Lagos island one day / Charlie what a wrong day.”

25. “” (2013)

This romantic track displays Olamide’s softer and emotional side, without losing his street credibility. It’s one of the songs that fans often revisit when they talk about Olamide in love mode.

“This song is up there as one of Olamide’s best.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “No be say I hate you or I no get you for mind / But hustle mi o easy / And everything get crazy / But no be say I hate you or I no get you for mind.”

24. “” (2014)

This is about aspirations and money making. It’s one of Olamide’s tracks that introduced his former signee Chinko Ekun.

“I felt the song in my spirit.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “O di dandan mo ma l’aluyo / B’oti ilekun waju mo ma gbeyin yo / B’oti ilekun teyin mo ma lo sense / Mi o ni relent mo ma fo fence ah / Se b’eyan lo bi Eleganza.”

23. “” (2013)

Olamide channels his street-boy-love energy here. The title is a reference to the 1990s Yorùbá actor and singer Yemi Ayebo (AKA Yemi My Lover), who starred in the popular Yorùbá romance movie of the same name.

“I like that he was rapping and telling a story at the same time. It’s amazing.” — Abdulsalam, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “I tell you take it slow, mo ni koye kanra / Wo mi nigbayen, otipe tati mora / But onipe mi o fine, mo da bi tebora”

22. “” (2014)

Olamide gets personal on this track about an armed robbery incident that almost claimed his dad’s life in 1999. According to him in the song, the incident is what “ginger the grind.”

“I like the sound and story behind it.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “O di dandan mo ma l’aluyo / Bon ti ilekun iwaju mo ma gb’eyin yo / Bon ti ilekun teyin mo ma lo sense / Mio ni relent, mo ma fo fence ah / Sheybi eyan lo bi Eleganza.”

21. “” (2011)

Released on his debut album Rapsodi in 2011, the title translates from Yoruba as “the hand has fallen” — a metaphor that signifies a shift in power or the fall of the oppressor.

“This is one of the best songs Olamide and ID Cabasa made together. Brilliant rapping and production.” — Elijah, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “I don spoil, abeg na who you know wey fit treat me?”

20. “” (2015)

This is the album’s title track.

“His flow is insane, and the way he puts other rappers in their place is just perfect.” — , Olamide fan since “Omo Toh Shan.”

Standout lyrics: “Tani best rapper again oya sofun mi”

19. “” (2012)

A raw and dark track, Olamide bares his soul and walks listeners through his youthful exuberance, inner turmoil and psychological battles.

“It resonates. It’s a warning song to young Nigerians that want to live a reckless life.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: Every day ni mummy mi ma n warn me / ‘Cause everyday ni mo ma n’gbe olosho ti ma catch fun mi / O ma n’so fun mi, wo, son mi, ti mi o ba shora / Wo ina lo ma burn mi.”

18. “” (2012)

This is a motivational track about poverty, ambition, sacrifice and the hunger for success. Released early in his career, “Money” remains a fan favourite, especially for people who understand the pressure of coming from the trenches and dreaming of something bigger.

“It motivates me a lot.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Mo le payan ntori one naira / Messing with my money no good for your health like cholera.”

17. “” (2013)

This song solidified Olamide’s persona as hip-hop’s street general. He’s not begging for validation, not seeking approval, and definitely not following the rules.

“I think it is his best rap performance.” — , Olamide fan since “Omo To Shan.”

Standout lyrics: “It is whatever it is, let them say what they like / To ba easy ki iyalaya won wa bo lori mic.”

16. “” (2015)

This is one of Olamide’s era-defining hits. It’s the kind of song that didn’t just take over charts, but reprogrammed Nigerian street culture in real time. It showed Olamide at his full cultural power.

“I just like the vibes in the song.” — Fisayo, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Mo fe ra Ferrari bobo.”

15. “” feat. Reminisce (2014)

This is a rap collaboration between two street generals, Olamide and Reminisce. It delivers raw bars and an unapologetic ode to the values that define their early beginnings: grit, loyalty, and staying real.

“I remember the first time I heard it. It is arguably one of my top 10 most geeked-up moments yet. It was just different—I felt like I could float in the air.” — Alfred, Olamide fan since “Omo Toh Shan.”

Standout lyrics: “Mi o le fi ori bale fuwon, Ade wa lori mi.”

14. “” (2024)

This is one of the most soulful and deeply spiritual tracks in Olamide’s discography. It’s a heartfelt blend of gratitude, hustle, and Yorùbá gospel energy, interpolating Paul Play Dairo’s song of the same title.

“It’s just a very reflective song. Acknowledging that everything is by God’s grace.” — Titi, Olamide fan since “Legendary Hustlers.”

Standout lyrics: “Aye ti mo wa at’ọwọ rẹ ni / Igba ti n ba lọ ma jẹ ko s’ẹyin rẹ, baba.”

13. “” (2015)

This is a total shift from Olamide’s usual street bangers. Here, he’s calm, reflective, romantic and emotional.

“I love it because it is a sonorous track.” — Adeleke, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Eyin fun jowo, eyin mu’enugun / Apon bepo re mi, akonke igi leyin ogba mi / Nigba kosowo, nigba ko s’ola / Nigba ko soro t’aiye romi pin, you stood by me.”

12. “” (2013)

This is one of Olamide’s biggest hits and most influential songs. Unfiltered Yorùbá lamba, filled with slurs and bouncy production.

“It’s the vibe and playfulness that come with it that I like. It has a hypnotic feel to it—that’s the emotion that spoke to me as a kid while listening to it.” — Dinho, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Take it outside, basket.”

11. “” feat. Bez (2013)

Olamide prays through the song, reflecting on how far he’s come and asking God for continued strength and guidance. Bez brings an acoustic warmth and calm with his vocals, while Olamide balances the spiritual mood with real-life rap verses.

“He was still in his beast mode. I really wish they shot the video.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Vampires everywhere, they want to suck blood / But eje mi koro, puweh! Stubborn / Won lemi, won fe ba mi / Won ti e mo ibi tan bo.”

10. “” feat. Bella Shmurda (2020)

This is an introspective and soul-stirring track—a confessional anthem that talks about pain, success, and resilience. It’s one of the standout tracks from his 2020 Carpe Diem album.

“This song makes me think about my younger years when we didn’t have much. It makes me think of my journey and keeps me grounded.” — Blessing, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Everyday me ganja / Who does kill me make me stronger.”

9. “” (2012)

This is Olamide’s Thanksgiving for his music success, escaping poverty and a poverty-induced life of crime.

“The whole second verse does it for me.” — Kunle, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “More money we piling them up / See our shoulders we carry them up / When we broke you no dey / When we dey trek go shows you no dey / You no send us when package no dey / If you want my service my guy you go pay.”

8. “” (2016)

Here, Olamide’s energy is high and focused on money, ambition and good times.

“Olamide raps good here. In my opinion, it’s a contender for his best song.” — Akin, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Alaye to se gogo / Action po bi Ogogo.”

7. “” (2012)

This is Olamide’s hunger and desperation for success. He’s less concerned about whether he’s rushing himself or not; he just wants it all.

“I love the track because it’s kinda conscious.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Say I’m in a hurry, won loju nkan mi / Fuck what they saying, kosi nkan to kan mi / We can’t feel the same thing same way / Some dey smile, some dey cry, some dey shout eweh.”

6. “” (2012)

This is a monumental track in Olamide’s legacy. It’s the song where he boldly declares himself the street’s spokesperson, the people’s mouthpiece and a leader of indigenous rap. It’s not just a song, it’s a full-blown mission statement.

“I’m a big fan of his rap music/style, especially when he’s angry. The video did justice to it.” — Remmzor, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Mo terrorise industry yin, I know say I be threat / Niggas can talk of me, so they pray for my death / Won pe mi l′omo esu, shey you see horn for my head? / AK47, koba, be lo se ma je.”

5. “” (2012)

This viral song was released in 2012 and the title became slang at the time. This was Olamide showing that he could own the street, the airwaves and the clubs.

“It continues to sound new to me.” — Ola, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “They don’t know for the place we dey come / We dey kill every show like say we dey with a gun.”

4. “” (2010)

This is the song that launched Olamide into the mainstream, and to this day, it remains one of the most iconic debut singles in Nigerian hip-hop history.

“I love it because it’s the first song that made me fall in love with Olamide as a rapper, and it’s the song that made me buy the first 3 albums in CD format.” — Azeez, Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Omo aje pako ni mi but o le tete mo lara mi / The little package way I dey package lo je ko ma je gala mi.”

3. “” (2013)

Olamide is at his most regal and unapologetically dominant here. This song is a public coronation and a lyrical declaration that he has ascended beyond competition and is in his own lane.

“The production is unorthodox and nice. The rapping is impeccable and polished. This is one of Olamide’s greatest rap songs.” — Joseph, Olamide fan since “Emi Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “So fuck what you heard, ‘cause everybody now king for ein lane / I don’t do dirt, I’m king and I joke with my name / I’m sitting on the throne, I’m a grown man in a young body / I’m sitting on the throne, I ain’t got beef with nobody.”

2. “” (2013)

“Anifowoshe” is a deeply personal storytelling track. The title is a Yorùbá name that loosely translates to “born into wealth.” But Olamide flips that irony by recounting a childhood filled with struggle, hunger, and hustle.

“I like it because of the way it just captures the Yoruba-ness. He sampled KWAM1’s song, and it was so beautiful.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Versace Versace / You rocking Versace, your mummy is hungry, oloshi.”

1. “” (2021)

This is Olamide’s smoothest and most radio-ready love song to date. It was the lead single off his 2021 UY Scuti album. It’s romantic, breezy, sexy, and grown.

“He finally hacked the love song that troubled him for most of the early parts of his career.” — , Olamide fan since “Eni Duro.”

Standout lyrics: “Baby, wetin you dey find for your life? / Ma lo fe broke nigga, fight for your life.”

ALSO READ: The 40 Greatest Davido Songs of All Time, Ranked by Fans

Flytime Fest 2024 Recap

Partner — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 09:19:39 +0000

Lagos, Nigeria – December 25, 2024:

(Burna Boy performs at Flytime Fest in Lagos)

Lagos, Nigeria, was a haven for music enthusiasts as it hosted a sensational four-day music festival. Nestled against the backdrop of its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, Flytime Fest was a massive success, drawing 30,000 fans to its sold-out venue from December 22 to 25, with Gunna, Olamide, Davido, and Ayra Starr serving as the festival’s headliners.

Tyla, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema, Tiwa Savage, D’banj, Bnxn, Darkoo, Fireboy, Omah Lay, Fave, Ckay Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, Cobhams, and other performers were also on the bill. After the concert, Cecil Hammond, CEO of Flytime Promotions, reflected: “Gunna injected a new vibe for such a diverse and wide-reaching festival. It brings us so much joy to see Lagos as the new destination spot and Flytime is excited to be part of this transformation. Flytime Fest 2024 was another dream realized, and we can’t wait to see how much the movement will have grown by the time we return again in 2025.”

(Gunna performs at Flytime Fest in Lagos)

Gunna headlined the first night of Lagos’ Flytime Fest, a four-day music festival celebrating Africa and the African Diaspora that has previously hosted Megan Thee Stallion,Wizkid, Burna Boy, and more. Gunna hit the stage in front of a full crowd packing out Lagos’s Eko Convention Center, a premier entertainment venue in the bustling West African metropolis. After performing a slew of hits including “One of Wun,” “Drip Too Hard,” “Fukumean,” and “Yosemite,” the beat to “Jump” dropped as Tyla strutted out singing in a pilot’s cap, sequined mini skirt, and black bustier. “They ain’t never had a pretty girl from Joburg,” she purred as fans screamed.

Gunna headline set capped Flytime Fest’s Coca Cola Rhythm Unplugged concert that served as the festival’s first night. Rhythm Unplugged is a two-decade tradition that has helped break Nigerian talent like Tems and brought global acts like Ja Rule and Ashanti to the country.

As the show continued, the electrifying presence of Burna Boy took center stage, igniting a frenzy among fans who eagerly battled for the prime spots closest to the stage. His single, “Sittin’ On Top Of The World,” was met with full support from the crowd and was followed by Dave’s “Location,” “Last Last,” and an energetic performance of “Ye.” among others.

Day 2 saw Nigerian rap artist Olamide headline his three-hour long set that felt like a celebration of Nigerian music. The crowd was treated to surprise guest appearances from global superstars Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML,Wande Coal, Phyno, and Pheelz, turning the night into a spontaneous celebration of Afrobeats at its finest. The crowd went wild for Wizkid, who took his time and performed a slew of hits, including “Kese,” “Essence,” and Drake’s “One Dance.” Starting from the very middle of the stage on an enormous platform, he gradually moved closer to the audience with each song, to their inexplicable delight.

(Olamide performs at Flytime Fest in Lagos)

Olamide performed a medley of his chart-topping hits, including “Melo Melo,” “Durosoke,” “Triumphant” with Bella Schmurda, and the crowd-favorite “habibi.”

Davido took the stage on Day 3, delivering a set full of his biggest hits, including “Aye,” “Unavailable,” and “Kante,” his chart-topping collaboration with Fave. A mix of high-energy anthems and intimate moments kept the crowd on their feet, while Odumodublvck joined him onstage for a thrilling live rendition of “Funds.” To cap off the night, DJ Dope Caesar brought the crowd to a frenzy with her high-energy DJ set, ensuring the energy remained high long after the final act.

(Ayra Starr performs at Flytime Fest)

The final night of the festival was headlined by Ayra Starr, whose high-octane performance showcased hits like “Away” and “Sability,” along with tracks from her critically acclaimed album The Year I Turned 21. But it wasn’t just Ayra who got the crowd moving. Rema, one of the fastest rising stars in Afrobeats, made a surprise appearance, delivering pulse-pounding performances of “Ozeba” and “Azaman.” The surprises didn’t stop there – a rare duet between Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr left fans speechless, showcasing the timeless appeal of Nigerian female talent

Flytime Fest 2024 also featured an emotional tribute to the history of the festival with a special photo collage celebrating ��پ��’s 20-year journey. From its humble beginnings in 2004 to becoming a global phenomenon, the images reminded the audience of how far the Afrobeats movement has come and how much it has shaped the sound of modern music.

Flytime Festival will return for its twenty-first edition in December 2025.

Grammy 2024: Davido Bags First Nomination, Major Categories List

Tomide Marv — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:05:06 +0000

The nomination list of the upcoming 2024 Grammy Awards dropped on November 10th, 2023, with a new category for African music called “Best African Music Performance.”

Nigerian artists, Davido, Ayra Starr, Olamide, Asake, Bloody Civilian and Blessing Offor, all got their first Grammy nominations, joining the growing list of nominees that includes Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti and Tems.

We bring you the list of categories and nominees you should care about.

Record of the Year

Worship – Jon Batiste

Not Strong Enough – boygenius

Flowers – Miley Cyrus

What Was I Made For? (From Motion Picture Barbie) – Billie Eilish

On My Mama – Victoria Monét

Vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift

Kill Bill – SZA

Album of the Year

World Music Radio – Jon Batiste

the record – boygenius

Endless Summer Vacation – Miley Cyrus

Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey

The Age of Pleasure – Janelle Monáe

GUTS – Olivia Rodrigo

Midnights – Taylor Swift

SOS – SZA

Song of the Year

A&W – Jack Antonoff, Lana Del Rey and Sam Drew

Anti-Hero – Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift

Butterfly – Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson

Dance the Night (From Barbie The Album) – Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt

Flowers – Miley Cyrus, Gregory Aldae Hein and Michael Pollack

Kill Bill – Rob Bisel, Carter Lang and Solána Rowe

Vampire – Daniel Nigro, Olivia Rodrigo

What Was I Made For? (From Motion Picture Barbie) – Billie Eilish O’Connell and Finneas O’Connell

Best New Artist

Gracie Abrams

Fred again..

Jelly Roll

Coco Jones

Noah Kanan

Victoria Monét

The War and Treaty

Producer of the Year (Non-Classical)

Jack Antonoff

Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II

Hit-Boy

Metro Boomin

Daniel Nigro

Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical)

Edgar Barrera

Jessie Jo Dilion

Shane McAnally

Theron Thomas

Justin Tranter

Best Pop Solo Performance

Flowers – Miley Cyrus

Paint The Town Red – Doja Cat

What Was I Made For? (From The Motion Picture Barbie)

Vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

Thousand Miles – Miley Cyrus

Candy Necklace – Lana Del Rey feat. Job Batiste

Never Felt So Alone – Labrinth feat. Billie Eilish

Karma – Taylor Swift feat. Ice Spice

Ghost In The Machine – SZA feat. Phoebe Bridgers

Best Pop Vocal Album

Chemistry – Kelly Clarkson

Endless Summer Vacation – Miley Cyrus

GUTS – Olivia Rodrigo

– (Subtract) – Ed Sheeran

Midnights – Taylor Swift

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

Blackbox Life Recorder 21F – Aphex Twin

Loading – James Blake

Higher Than Ever Before – Disclosure

Strong – Romy and Fred again..

Rumble – Skrillex, Fred again.. and Flowdan

Best Pop Dance Recording

Baby Don’t Hurt Me – David Guetta, Anne-Marie and Coi Leray

Miracle – Calvin Harris feat. Ellie Goulding

Padam Padam – Kylie Minogue

One In A Million – Bebe Rexha and David Guetta

Rush – Troye Sivan

Best Dance/Electronic Music Album

Playing Robots Into Heaven – James Blake

For That Beautiful Feeling – The Chemical Brothers

Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9 2022) – Fred again..

Kx5 – Kx5

Quest For Fire – Skrillex

Best Alternative Music Performance

Belinda Says – Alvvays

Body Paint – Arctic Monkeys

Cool About It – boygenius

A&W – Lana Del Rey

This Is Why – Paramore

Best Alternative Music Album

The Car –Arctic Monkeys

The Record – boygenius

Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey

Cracker Island – Gorillaz

I Inside The Old Year Dying – PJ Harvey

Best R&B Performance

Summer Too Hot – Chris Brown

Back To Love – Robert Glasper feat. SiR and Alex Isley

ICU – Coco Jones

How Does It Make You Feel – Victoria Monét

Kill Bill – SZA

Best Traditional R&B Performance

Simple – Babyface feat. Coco Jones

Lucky – Kenyon Dixon

Hollywood – Victoria Monét feat. Earth, Wind & Fire and Hazel Monét

Good Morning – PJ Morton feat. Susan Carol

Love Language – SZA

Best R&B Song

Angel – Halle Bailey, Theron Feemster and Coleridge Tillman

Back To Love – Darryl Andrew Farris, Robert Glasper and Alexandra Isley

ICU – Darhyl Camper Jr., Courtney Jones, Raymond Komba and Roy Keisha Rockette

On My Mama – Dernst Emile II, Jeff Gitelman, Victoria Monét, Kyla Moscovich, Jamil Pierre and Charles Williams

Snooze – Kenny B. Edmonds, Blair Ferguson, Khris Riddick-Tynes, Solána Rowe and Leon Thomas

Best Progressive R&B Album

Since I Have A Lover – 6LACK

The Love Album Off The Grid – Diddy

Nova – Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy

The Age Of Pleasure – Janelle Monáe

SOS – SZA

Best R&B Album

Girls Night Out – Babyface

What I Didn’t Tell You (Deluxe) – Coco Jones

Special Occasion – Emily King

JAGUAR II – Victoria Monét

CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE EP – Summer Walker

Best Rap Performance

The Hillbillies – Baby Keem feat. Kendrick Lamar

Love Letter – Black Thought

Rich Flex – Drake & 21 Savage

SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS – Killer Mike feat. André 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane

Players – Coi Leray

Best Melodic Rap Performance

Sittin’ On Top Of The World – Burna Boy feat. 21 Savage

Attention – Doja Cat

Spin Bout U – Drake & 21 Savage

All My Life – Lil Durk feat. J. Cole

Low – SZA

Best Rap Song

Attention – Rogét Chahayed and Amala

Barbie World (From Barbie The Album – Isis Naija Gaston, Ephrem Louis Lopez Jr. & Onika Maraj, songwriters (Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice Featuring Aqua)

Just Wanna Rock – Mohamad Camara, Symere Woods & Javier Mercado, songwriters (Lil Uzi Vert)

Rich Flex – Brytavious Chambers, Isaac “Zac” De Boni, Aubrey Graham, J. Gwin, Anderson Hernandez, Michael “Finatik” Mule & Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, songwriters (Drake & 21 Savage)

SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS – Andre Benjamin, Paul Beauregard, James Blake, Michael Render, Tim Moore & Dion Wilson, songwriters (Killer Mike Featuring André 3000, Future And Eryn Allen Kane)

Best Rap Album

Her Loss – Drake & 21 Savage

MICHAEL – Killer Mike

HEROES & VILLIANS – Metro Boomin

King’s Disease III – Nas

UTOPIA – Travis Scott

Best Spoken Word Poetry Album

A-You’re Not Wrong B-They’re Not Either: The Fukc-It Pill Revisited – Queen Sheba

For Your Consideration’24 -The Album – Prentice Powell and Shawn William

Grocery Shopping With My Mother – Kevin Powell

The Light Inside – J. Ivy

When The Poems Do What They Do – Aja Monet

Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music

God Is Good – Stanley Brown Featuring Hezekiah Walker, Kierra Sheard & Karen Clark Sheard; Stanley Brown, Karen V Clark Sheard, Kaylah Jiavanni Harvey, Rodney Jerkins, Elyse Victoria Johnson, J Drew Sheard II, Kierra Valencia Sheard & Hezekiah Walker, songwriters

Feel Alright (Blessed) – Erica Campbell; Erica Campbell, Warryn Campbell, William Weatherspoon, Juan Winans & Marvin L. Winans, songwriters

Lord Do It For Me (Live) – Zacardi Cortez; Marcus Calyen, Zacardi Cortez & Kerry Douglas, songwriters

God Is – Melvin Crispell III

All Things – Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, songwriter

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

Believe – Blessing Offor; Hank Bentley & Blessing Offor, songwriters

Firm Foundation (He Won’t) [Live] – Cody Carnes

Thank God I Do – Lauren Daigle; Lauren Daigle & Jason Ingram, songwriters

Love Me Like I Am – for KING & COUNTRY feat. Jordin Sparks

Your Power – Lecrae & Tasha Cobbs Leonard

God Problems – Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine; Daniel Bashta, Chris Davenport, Ryan Ellis & Naomi Raine, songwriters

Best Gospel Album

I Love You – Erica Campbell

Hymns (Live) – Tasha Cobbs Leonard

The Maverick Way – Maverick City Music

My Truth – Jonathan McReynolds

All Things New: Live In Orlando – Tye Tribbett

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

My Tribe – Blessing Offor

Emanuel – Da’ T.R.U.T.H.

Lauren Daigle – Lauren Daigle

Church Clothes 4 – Lecrae

I Believe – Phil Wickham

Best Roots Gospel Album

Tribute To The King – The Blackwood Brothers Quartet

Echoes Of The South – Blind Boys Of Alabama

Songs That Pulled Me Through The Tough Times – Becky Isaacs Bowman

Meet Me At The Cross – Brian Free & Assurance

Shine: The Darker The Night The Brighter The Light – Gaither Vocal Band

Best Global Music Performance

Shadow Forces – Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily

Alone – Burna Boy

FEEL – Davido

Milagro Y Disastre -Silvana Estrada

Abundance In Millets – Falu & Gaurav Shah (Featuring PM Narendra Modi)

Pashto – Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer & Zakir Hussain Featuring Rakesh Chaurasia

Todo Colores – Ibrahim Maalouf Featuring Cimafunk & Tank And The Bangas

Best African Music Performance

Amapiano – Asake & Olamide

City Boys – Burna Boy

UNAVAILABLE — Davido feat. Musa Keys

Rush – Ayra Starr

Water – Tyla

Best Global Music Album

��辱�ڲ��í�� – Susana Baca

History – Bokanté

I Told Them… – Burna Boy

Timeless – Davido

This Moment – Shakti

Best Reggae Album

Born For Greatness – Buju Banton

Simma – Beenie Man

Cali Roots Riddim 2023 – Collie Buddz

No Destroyer – Burning Spear

Colors Of Royal – Julian Marley & Antaeus

Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media

AURORA – (Daisy Jones & The Six)

Barbie The Album – (Various Artists)

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From And Inspired By – (Various Artists)

Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3: Awesome Mix, Vol. 3 – (Various Artists)

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story – Weird Al Yankovic

Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film And Television)

Barbie – Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt (composers)

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Ludwig Göransson (composer)

The Fabelmans – John Williams, (composer)

Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny
– John Williams (composer)

Oppenheimer – Ludwig Göransson, (composer)

Best Song Written For Visual Media

Barbie World (From Barbie The Album) – Naija Gaston, Ephrem Louis Lopez Jr. and Onika Maraj, songwriters (Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice feat. Aqua)

Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) – Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Dua Lipa)

I’m Just Ken (From Barbie The Album) – Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Ryan Gosling)

Lift Me Up [From Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From And Inspired By) – Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson, Robyn Fenty and Temilade Openiyi, songwriters (Rihanna)

What Was I Made For? (From Barbie The Album) – Billie Eilish O’Connell & Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)

Best Music Video

I’m Only Sleeping – The Beatles

(Em Cooper, video director; Jonathan Clyde, Sophie Hilton, Sue Loughlin & Laura Thomas, video producers)

In Your Love – Tyler Childers
(Bryan Schlam, video director; Kacie Barton, Silas House, Nicholas Robespierre, Ian Thornton & Whitney Wolanin, video producers)

What Was I Made For? – Billie Eilish
(Billie Eilish, video director; Michelle An, Chelsea Dodson & David Moore, video producers)

Count Me Out – Kendrick Lamar
(Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar, video directors; Jason Baum & Jamie Rabineau, video producers)

Rush – Troye Sivan
(Gordon Von Steiner, video director; Kelly McGee, video producer)

Find the full list .

7 of Olamide’s Songs That’ll Have You Feeling Unruly

Chioma Munachi — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:46:38 +0000

Olamide just released his 10th studio album, “Unruly”. While we admit the album lives up to its name, this isn’t the first time Olamide’s made us feel unruly with his songs, and we have proof.

Poverty Die

The entire song was Olamide binding and casting poverty. Is it really a shock that it had the entire country binding and casting with him?

Jinja

Something about the beat and Olamide’s extra smooth vocals gingers everyone to get up and break their waist to this song.

First of All

This song had every Nigerian wrapped around its finger in 2012 and beyond. At some point, all you had to do was shout “First of all” in public, and everyone would belt out the rest of the song.

Wo!!

From the beat to Olamide’s “Oya, wo” at the beginning of the song to “aunty shakira dance shakiti”, Olamide had us all willing and ready to lose what little home training we had the moment this song played.

Kpe Paso

Every song Olamide so much as breathes on reminds us that he wants us to just have the best time. But this one? Olamide strutted all over the song, threw up gang signs and left us wondering WTF just happened.

Science Student

A song that had the streets in a chokehold and the government pressed? Olamide dropped Science Student and had everyone’s parents dropping think pieces about everything from the lyrics to the video.

Who You Epp?

It was compulsory to catch an attitude while singing this song. Who You Epp? dropped and became the unofficial response to anyone trying to do more than they should.

Olamide’s Albums Ranked By How Well They Catered to the Baddies

Tomide Marv — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 07:39:55 +0000

Olamide announced on Threads that his latest album Unruly is only for baddies and men who love baddies, not for those looking for moral lessons. It’s out now, so we decided to rank all his albums according to their attention to baddies.

Rapsodi

Wrapped in hustle mode, his debut album had few women-centered tracks. Although Dirty Rock and Omo To Shan used to get the baddies throwing it down, Rapsodi still gets last position on this particular ranking. It’s not hard to see that Olamide also had long talking stages that make you feel like a journalist doing an interview.

Baddest Guy Ever Liveth

Still deeply in love with the streets, Baddo painted tales of hustle and triumph. The popular hit, Durosoke, is the closest to “baddie”s music on the album. He had babes from top Nigerian universities on roll call, further solidifying especially “Babcock girls” (means the hottest babes) in the Nigerian pop culture.

Eyan Mayweather

This album is loaded with viral hits like Say Something, Lagos Boys, Melo Melo and Bobo. We broke our backs to Don’t Stop, but it failed to deliver for the bad bitches.

The album was fully for the streets, and there’s no single woman in the crowd on the album art.

The Glory

His sixth album spread a messages of motivation with dashes of braggado, except Pepper Dem, which became the hottest slang for “slaying” at the time .

Lagos Nawa!

Also known as “Wobey Sound”, this album attempted to give the girls a dancehall tune with Bend It Over (featuring Timaya and Reminsice), but it just didn’t hit. Fine Fine Girls with Tiwa Savage tried to come for the waist beads too, but it wasn’t giving. The titular track, Lagos Nawa!, was the only track that made the baddies active for a while.

YBNL (Yahoo Boy No Laptop)

Baddo was still neck deep in the hustle, fully representing the streets on this album. But he still managed to deliver solid jams like Ewo Idi, Stupid Love and grabbed Dammy Krane for the fuji and EDM-infused Fuji House that made the girlies take off their heels.

Street OT

Olamide’s fourth studio album announced its business early. While it’s not his most enjoyable body of work, the highlight is his rawness on tracks like Up in the Club, Skelemba, Falila Ketan and Story for the Gods. “Monkey Tail” was in full effect that year.

Carpe Diem

Even on the album art, Baddo is pictured amongst four beautiful women all glammed up. The tracks covered themes of triumph, good life and spending money, but Green Light, Eru and Shilalo are about the fine women in his life.

UY Scuti

UY Scuti came out in 2021 and followed the direction of Carpe Diem, leaning heavily towards sensual lyricism. From start to finish, UY Scuti gave sugar daddy vibes, telling babes to run away from broke niggas on Rock. On Pon Pon, he went rogue and said he wants to do his babe like Big Sean does Jhené Aiko.

UNRULY

He opened his latest album with Celebrate, reminiscing on his journey from Shaku Shaku to the top as a successful music executive and label owner. UNRULY is a fusion of afrobeats and log drums backing up his playful, raunchy lyrics and street yarns. With guest features from the new ladies’ men of afrobeats: CKay, Rema, Asake, Fireboy DML, etc., UNRULY makes Olamide’s most playable album in the strip club. The music is mature, lush, flirty and easy on the ears — all the elements that get the baddies’ attention.

“Unruly” Is Coming: Olamide’s Doors Are Open to Baddies Only

Tomide Marv — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 14:55:12 +0000

This 2023, Olamide made his grand return to the music scene as a recording artist with singles Kpe Paso, Trumpet and New Religion. And two years after dropping his last album, UY Scuti, he announced via Album Talks HQ’s on August 10, 2023.

He’s spent the last few years supervising the success of his label signees, but it’s about time he fed his own fans. So here’s everything you should know ahead of the release.

It’s titled UNRULY

From Rapsodi to Baddest Guy Ever Liveth to Eyan Mayweather to UY Scuti, Olamide has the most unconventional album titles. But the common themes have always been street orientation, the hustle spirit and his confidence in his own supremacy. With UNRULY, are we getting a wilder version of Baddo? We hope so.

New album release date

Originally, he announced UNRULY would drop on July 12, 2023, but due to reasons unknown, he’s moved the release date. We’ll just have to trust Olamide’s process and timing.

The tracklist

Olamide hasn’t released a tracklist yet. So ignore the fake ones, like this one that’s been flying around Twitter as if it’s the gospel.

Olamide unveils tracklist for his 10th studio album, Unruly.

The album features Fireboy DML, Lojay, Fave, Phyno, Wizkid and Asake.

It’s almost Baddo Time.
— Baddie The Music Blogger (@badthemusicblog)

Two snippets dropped today

Two snippets connected to UNRULY are being circulated on the internet by The Upper Ent account. First snippet is a laid-back rap song.

GET READY FOR OLAMIDE’S FORTHCOMING ALBUM “UNRULY”
— T.U.E (@TheUpperEnt)

The other one, NATI, is pure Amapiano, produced by Asake’s go-to producer, Magicsticks. Olamide previewed it in August, 2022, but he’s been hoarding it. We hope it makes it to the UNRULY, the demand is high.

Olamide's "UNRULY" Album is coming.

Gbedu SZN!
— T.U.E (@TheUpperEnt)

that new olamide snippet baddo na baba.
— Ayomide Tayo (@AOT2)

The album cover is out

In what appears like a framed picture, Olamide is in a suit, a cigar and looking like an Italian mob boss. The Unruly album art gives absolute unfuckwithable vibes.

UNRULY is for baddies only

In his Threads post — on the day the new social media app launched — Olamide warns critics that his album is only for bad bitches and those who love them. He called it strictly “bo pata” (“remove your pants”) music. Looks like he’s about to give double of what he served on Story For The Gods. Baddies stay winning.

It’s his 10th studio album

UNRULY will become Olamide’s tenth solo album when it drops in August. 13th, if we include his EP and collaborative projects. Olamide’s work-rate is insane. With every music release, he’s demonstrated dedication and consistency. But please, Baddo, let August 10 be August 10.

Bad Boy Timz Has Bad Days Too

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:31:59 +0000

It’s difficult, almost impossible even, to look back at the tumultuous year that was 2020 and not acknowledge how strange it was for Nigerians and the global community at large. Riddled with fear of the unknown, and a daily surge of coronavirus cases, the world shut down. Navigating those confusing days was scary. However, for Olorunyomi Timilehin, 2020 was also the year the world got a massive introduction to his musical avatar, Bad Boy Timz. His breakout single, MJ, dropped just five days after the Nigerian government announced a nationwide lockdown, on April 4, 2020.

“I was sad and happy at the same time,” the singer tells me at the tail end of 2022, over two years since the lockdown was lifted. “I saw my song climb the charts, but I was broke. I couldn’t perform or make money. It was a club song, but it peaked online. I wish it had dropped when we were all outside.”

Outside or not, MJ, Timz’s catchy tribute to the late king of pop, Michael Jackson, quickly became one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2020, its infectious energy providing reprieve in uncertain times. The single was followed by two remixes, one with Mayorkun and the other with Teni.

In an industry where lightning rarely strikes twice, much less thrice in a global pandemic, Timz’s tagline “Iyanu yen shock won ba kan”, which loosely translates to “The miracles will shock them”, became a reality. A star-making appearance on Olamide’s Carpe Diem standout, Loading, was soon followed by another feel-good anthem, Have Fun, and finally, the Headies’ Rookie of the Year award to close out 2020. But just when it seemed like the then-21-year-old had established himself as an act to look out for post-lockdown, he disappeared for a while.

Source: Courtesy of subject

Bad Boy Timz’s introduction to music was unknowingly orchestrated by his father. Accompanying the accountant who moonlighted as a Tungba band member gave the future singer front-row seats to making and performing music. After years of covers and recording music unprofessionally in secondary school, Timz’s first brush with the spotlight happened when his freestyle to Davido’s If went viral in 2017. The freestyle caught the attention of rap icon, Olamide, who reposted the video and invited him to perform backup on Radio Lagos, off his Lagos Nawa! album that year.

In 2020, Olamide placed the singer front and centre in both the audio and visuals for Loading. “We recorded the song in 30 minutes,” Timz says. “I remember being in Ikorodu when he [Olamide] called me. Omo, I rushed to the island sharp-sharp, and he introduced me to P.Priime, the producer. I already had the melody in my head, so it was easy. Shoutout to Baddo. That’s my egbon right there.”

Loading changed Timz’s life. He admits to booking countless shows after the single was released. But things took a dramatic turn when a brewing rift between the artiste and the label he had previously signed to in 2019 forced him to take a break from releasing music after the Headies. “Winning the Headies came with mixed emotions as I’d already started having issues with my label at the time,” he confesses. “I expected MJ to win, but I also felt the heat from what was going on with my team. I couldn’t perform or release new music because I needed to leave that label. I was being acknowledged as one of the greats, but I couldn’t even enjoy the moment.”

ALSO READ: T.I Blaze is Not Just a Street Artiste, He Wants to Make Love Songs Too

While Timz doesn’t go into details about his label drama, the whole thing played out publicly, with an and dominating headlines in the early months of 2021. By May 2021, Timz had founded his own record label, Shock Absorbers Music, with a distribution deal from Empire Label, which also handles distribution for the YBNL squad, Tyga and Snoop Dogg, allowing him to make a massive comeback with Move in October the same year.

The highs, lows and complexities of Timz’ creative adventures converge on Igboro, the opening track of his long-awaited No Bad Boy, No Party debut album which came out in June, 2023. Giving insight into his journey from the ghetto, Bad Boy Timz reminisces about the past while acknowledging the poignant Nigerian dream of blowing regardless of where you come from.

The party part of the album goes into full gear after the first track and continues until the album closes with the BNXN-assisted Make Sense. With production from heavyweights like P.Priime and BeatsByTimmy, and appearances from Olamide, Zlatan and Shenseea, Timz successfully packaged a fun night out into a 30-minute LP. But as club-friendly and fun as this album sounds, there’s more to Bad Boy Timz than what the audience is getting right now, especially after 2022’s Big Money with its underlying social message. The best part? He agrees.

“I feel like the Nigerian audience is ready for artistes to be versatile,” he admits to me while discussing his decision to put out more experimental music. “I want them to say, ‘Ah, Bad Boy Timz, we love this lamba music, but we also love your R&B work.’ There will be reggae Bad Boy Timz, drill Bad Boy Timz and even trap Bad Boy Timz soon. I need my fans to get to the point where they love my music so much, they won’t even care what genre I’m doing.”

Source: Courtesy of subject

Timz’s new direction is inspired by another artiste. “I’m not saying Burna Boy is my role model,” he tells me. “But this guy has the kind of versatility that allows him to talk about social problems or heartbreak while making you dance.” He explains that while he wasn’t always bothered with messaging before, now, more than ever, there’s a need for music that connects with people’s souls instead of just helping them escape bad times.

As a singer whose music has become known for its resilient, positive energy, I’m curious to know if Timz is familiar with these bad times he talks about. Taking a minute to catch his breath, he reveals that, just like everyone else, he struggles with navigating life in Nigeria while dealing with the pressure of being in the spotlight.

“People think we’re not human beings with real emotions,” he says. “We are prone to make mistakes. I try to remember that if I don’t make myself happy, no one else will. I used to allow the craziness around me fuck me up mentally. But now, I understand that problem no dey finish. If I wait for my life to be perfect before I enjoy myself, I’ll wait till eternity.”

Source: Courtesy of subject

Timz’s pursuit of happiness bled into his music first, and now, he has his sights set on new dreams — becoming a toymaker then a restaurateur. Yes, you read that right. The first is an attempt to reconnect with his childhood while growing a sustainable business that could see Nigerian toys become valuable collectables in the future. And the food part? Well, Timz is aware that no matter what, Nigerians will always need food. “Do you know how much Olaiya makes in a day?” he asks me, referencing one of Lagos’s most popular amala joints.

Singer, future toymaker and restaurateur, Bad Boy Timz has his hands full with present tasks and future aspirations. But in the face of everything, I want to know the ethos that drives the singer?

“I’m trying to make a statement,” he explains. “I want people to know I’m capable of much more than what they’ve come to expect from me. I won’t box my creativity to fit in.”

Listen to No Bad Boy, No Party here:

ALSO READ: Seyi Vibez Misses the Trenches But Doesn’t Regret Leaving

9 Artistes We’d Like to See on Davido’s New Album, “Timeless”

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:36:38 +0000

Davido is back. I repeat, Davido is back. This is not a drill. And all is well with the world again.

There is a time for everything. A time to Grieve and a time to Heal.
A time to Laugh and a time to Dance. A time to Speak & A time for Silence.

Thank you to everyone out there for your love and that has held me down.

My next album TIMELESS is here, March 31st. Preorder in bio
— Davido (@davido)

Coming back from a much-needed break, Davido recently broke the internet when he announced his new album, Timeless. Because we’ve not had a Davido album since 2020, everyone naturally started freaking out. What will the album sound like? Who else is going to be on it?

Spread the news Timeless by Davido on the way
— MBAH (@Mbahdeyforyou)

https://twitter.com/_itzgb/status/1638617368317313024?s=20

Well, as someone who’s listened to all of Davido’s albums (more than twice), here’s a list of artistes we might see on the new one.

Wizkid

Source: Channels Television

Sorry to Burna, but this is the Wizkid collab everyone actually wants. No, but let’s take a second to imagine the impact a Davido and Wizkid collab would have on the industry.

I’d like to see this happen now that they’ve squashed their beef for the 100th time. And we wouldn’t even be able to diss the song if it was bad because who wants to risk fighting 30BG and Wizkid FC at the same time?

Zinoleesky

Source: instagram/zinoleesky

Davido is always on the pulse of who people are currently listening to, and if there’s one artiste that’s taken over the streets and playlists in Nigeria, it’s Zinoleesky. Borrowing from Davido’s strategic collabs with Naira Marley on A Good Time and CKay and Bella Shmurda on A Better Time, there’s a high chance Zinoleesky might make an appearance on Timeless. But no one should take it personally if he’s not on the album.

Chance the Rapper

Source: instagram/davido

Davido has a thing for featuring American rappers on his album. A Good Time had Gunna and A Boogie with da Hoodie, while A Better Time had Nicki Minaj, Nas, Lil Baby, Young Thug and Hit-Boy. Since we have this picture of Chance and Davido recording something in Ghana, it’s safe to assume he might be 2023’s token American rapper, and I’m not mad at it.

Amaarae

Source: instagram/amaarae

Remember when Davido looked into Summer Walker’s eyes and saw her snatched waist on D&G? Or the time he wanted to play Tanana with Tiwa Savage? We all love Davido’s sweet romantic duets.

If Mr Adeleke plans to continue his romance streak on Timeless, Amaarae is the right woman for the job. She got Asa to sing about breaking backs, so I’m dying to see what she does with Davido.

Olamide

Source: instagram/olamide

Nigerians are going through it right now. There’s fuel scarcity, BVAs are performing wonders, and POS agents are using our money to build houses in their villages. If there’s one thing I strongly believe can make everything right again, it’s an Olamide and Davido collaboration. Davido could also return the favour by appearing on .

Black Sherif

Source: instagram/blacksherif_

From joining an all-star line-up of artistes on Stormzy’s This Is What I Mean to providing the soundtrack for fights between Michael B. Jordan and Jonathan Majors on Creed, Ghana’s Black Sherif is undoubtedly one of the most in-demand Afrobeats rappers of the moment.

Davido has shown interest in creating music with a wide range of African artistes before, working with Mugeez, Sho Madjozi and Sauti Sol on A Better Time. With Black Sherif’s star on the rise, I can bet he’s on Davido’s radar for another intercontinental banger.

Mayorkun

Source: instagram/iammayorkun

This is one feature I’m willing to bet my salary on. Mayorkun and Davido gave us Bobo and Betty Butter. Let’s not forget Mayorkun had not one, but two features on A Better Time — The Best and I Got A Friend. There’s no way they’re not revisiting this magic for Timeless.

Libianca

Source: instagram/iamlibianca

Before his break, Davido blessed us with Stand Strong, a beautifully written choir-assisted ballad about finding strength and resilience in the face of life’s many ups and downs. Probably one of his best songs yet, Stand Strong showed us a different, more sober Davido.

If there’s one singer who can help OBO reflect and tap into his emotions some more, it’s Libianca. Just like Stand Strong was, Libianca’s 2022 single, People, has become an emotional anthem. A Davido and Libianca collab will surely get us all in our feels.

T.I Blaze

Source: TI Blaze

Sometimes, an Olamide co-sign is all you need to blow as an artiste — take Asake, for example. With a sound currently transitioning from the streets to mainstream attention, T.I Blaze is the kind of artiste Davido would be willing to hop on a track with for a similar way as Zinoleesky and Bella Shmurda.

ALSO READ: 8 Upcoming Albums That’ll Make 2023 Bang Like Today’s Bread

QUIZ: Create a Song and We’ll Tell You if Olamide Will Sign You

Meyimi O. — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:46:47 +0000

Olamide is always out discovering new talents, but do you deserve to be one of them? Take this quiz.

Olamide | 91����!

All the Best Moments from Olamide’s OVO Arena Wembley Show

Olamide’s grand entrance

The YBNL Mafia

Olamide and Asake

Olamide brought more acts

Asake and Seyi Vibez

Olamide checked on fan

He threw shots

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Special nod to Fuji music

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Olamide performed an unreleased

He performed OG hits too

Reactions

ALSO READ: Wizkid’s Son Makes Music that’s Nothing Like His Dad’s

The 40 Greatest Olamide Songs of All Time, Ranked By Fans

40. “” feat. Baseone & Reminisce (2012)

39. “” (2016)

38. “” (2016)

37. “” (2015)

36. “” feat. Sossick (2016)

35. “” (2011)

34. “” (2015)

33. “” feat. Wande Coal & Phyno (2016)

32. “” (2015)

31. “” (2012)

30. “” feat. Russ (2024)

29. “” (2014)

28. “” feat. Adol (2011)

27. “” (2016)

26. “” (2021)

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25. “” (2013)

24. “” (2014)

23. “” (2013)

22. “” (2014)

21. “” (2011)

20. “” (2015)

19. “” (2012)

18. “” (2012)

17. “” (2013)

16. “” (2015)

15. “” feat. Reminisce (2014)

14. “” (2024)

13. “” (2015)

12. “” (2013)

11. “” feat. Bez (2013)

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10. “” feat. Bella Shmurda (2020)

9. “” (2012)

8. “” (2016)

7. “” (2012)

6. “” (2012)

5. “” (2012)

4. “” (2010)

3. “” (2013)

2. “” (2013)

1. “” (2021)

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Flytime Fest 2024 Recap

Grammy 2024: Davido Bags First Nomination, Major Categories List

Record of the Year

Album of the Year

Song of the Year

Best New Artist

Producer of the Year (Non-Classical)

Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical)

Best Pop Solo Performance

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

Best Pop Vocal Album

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

Best Pop Dance Recording

Best Dance/Electronic Music Album

Best Alternative Music Performance

Best Alternative Music Album

Best R&B Performance

Best Traditional R&B Performance

Best R&B Song

Best Progressive R&B Album

Olamide | 91��!

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