Wizkid Biography

Basic Info

Full Name: Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun

Stage Name: Wizkid

Country: Nigeria

Birth Date

Date of Birth: July 16, 1990

Biography, Career, and more

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (born 16 July 1990), better known as Wizkid, is more than a Nigerian music icon—he’s one of the most influential artists in modern African history. From humble beginnings in the Ojuelegba neighborhood of Surulere, Lagos, to dominating international charts, Wizkid's journey is a story of talent, tenacity, and trailblazing sound.

The Birth of a Star

Wizkid’s love for music began early. At just 11 years old, he co-founded a group called The Glorious Five with a few church friends, releasing a local gospel album. Known then as Lil Prinz, he would soon outgrow that moniker and adopt the name that would one day echo globally—Wizkid.

First Breakthroughs and Rising Fame

His professional journey took flight in 2009 when he signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), founded by R&B star Banky W. In 2010, he dropped "Holla at Your Boy," a track that instantly catapulted him into the limelight. His debut album Superstar (2011) delivered hits like “Tease Me” and “Don’t Dull,” establishing him as a core force in Nigeria’s exploding Afrobeats scene.

Going Global with One Dance

In 2016, Wizkid made history when he featured on Drake’s global smash hit "One Dance." The track topped charts in over 14 countries and made Wizkid the first Afrobeats artist to enter the Guinness World Records. Suddenly, the world was paying attention to the African sound—Wizkid wasn’t just a participant in Afrobeats; he was one of its global ambassadors.

Albums that Shaped a Generation

• Ayo (2014): A cultural touchstone supported by hits like "Jaiye Jaiye."
• Sounds from the Other Side (2017): His RCA Records debut fused Afrobeats, Caribbean rhythms, and international features.
• Made in Lagos (2020): A sonic masterpiece that included “Essence” featuring Tems—the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.
• More Love, Less Ego (2022): A mature reflection of his artistry and global growth.
• Morayo (2024): A deeply personal tribute to his late mother that shattered Spotify records for African albums.

Roots, Faith, and Early Influences

Wizkid was raised in a deeply spiritual, interfaith household—his mother a devout Christian, his father a practicing Muslim. Growing up with twelve sisters, he was shaped by a diverse range of sounds, from Fela Kuti and Bob Marley to King Sunny Ade. Influenced and mentored by industry figures like OJB Jezreel and Naeto C, he immersed himself in music production long before stardom knocked.

The Sound of a Generation

Today, Wizkid stands as a cultural icon. His sound—a seamless fusion of Afrobeats, Afropop, reggae, R&B, and dancehall—continues to redefine African music on the global stage. Yet despite all the accolades, he remains rooted in humility, often referencing his Ojuelegba upbringing as a grounding force in his life and art.

Legacy in Motion

From studio corners in Surulere to Grammy nominations and global chart-toppers, Wizkid has become a living legend. His influence spans continents, generations, and genres, and he’s not done yet. As the world dances to the rhythms of Afrobeats, one truth remains—Wizkid lit the fire, and it burns brighter than ever.

He came from Ojuelegba, but his sound now echoes in every corner of the world. This is Wizkid. This is global greatness.

Net Worth

Estimated Net Worth: $50 million