Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, better known as Wizkid, has taken Afrobeat to global heights with his unique sound and undeniable charisma. While fans know him for his chart-topping hits and captivating performances, here are 10 things about the Afrobeat star that might surprise you.
1.
First Afrobeat Star to Sell Out the O2 Arena in London (2018):
In 2018, Wizkid made history by becoming the first Afrobeat artist to sell out the prestigious O2 Arena in London, UK. This 20,000-seat venue hosted his unforgettable "Afrorepublik" concert, marking a pivotal moment for African music on the world stage.
2.
Record-Breaking YouTube Live Viewership (2019):
In 2019, Wizkid continued to break records, becoming the first Afrobeat star to draw over 27,000 live viewers on YouTube for his YouTube Original concert. This achievement demonstrated his global appeal and the massive influence of Afrobeat worldwide.
3.
Growing Up in a Polygamous Home:
Wizkid grew up in a polygamous family in Surulere, Lagos, as the last-born of 11 children. His upbringing in such a large household gave him a sense of responsibility and drive, which later fueled his music career and his desire to change the lives of those around him.
4.
Early Start in Church Performances:
Wizkid’s musical journey began at the age of 11, when he started performing live in his local church. These early performances honed his skills, setting the stage for his transition into the Afrobeats genre that would later make him a global star.
5.
Inspired by Fela Kuti:
One of Wizkid’s biggest musical inspirations is the legendary Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat. Wizkid has often spoken about how Fela’s innovative sound and political messages inspired him to explore the Afrobeat genre and carve his own path in music.
6.
No Formula to His Early Music:
When Wizkid first started releasing music, he didn’t follow any set formula. He simply put out music that sounded good to him. It wasn’t until later in his career, after learning more about the music industry, that he discovered his deep love for Afrobeat and crafted his distinct sound.
7.
Wizkid’s Mantra: "Do It Well, Do It Excellently"
Wizkid lives by the mantra, "Whatever you do, do it well, do it excellently." This mindset has been a key driver of his success, pushing him to consistently deliver high-quality music and unforgettable performances.
8.
Emotional Connection to His Music:
Wizkid is known for only releasing music that evokes the exact emotion he intended. He carefully crafts his songs to ensure that they make him feel a specific way, and if they don’t, they won’t see the light of day.
9.
A Generous Giver:
Beyond his music, Wizkid is known for his generosity. He has significantly changed the lives of his parents and siblings, using his wealth to provide for them and ensure their well-being, demonstrating his deep sense of family and loyalty.
10.
Believes Music Saved His Life:
Wizkid believes that music not only saved his life but also the lives of the people he loves. He has often expressed gratitude for the way his career has transformed his life for the better, allowing him to uplift his loved ones and make a positive impact on the world.
From his humble beginnings in Surulere to his record-breaking achievements, Wizkid’s journey is a testament to passion, hard work, and the power of Afrobeat. These lesser-known facts about the Starboy only add to the legend of one of Africa’s biggest musical exports.
