Wizkid Life Story From 1990 To 2025: Biography, Career, and Achievements
When the story of Afrobeats is told, one name that cannot be left out is Wizkid. Born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun in 1990, Wizkid has grown from a talented Lagos boy with big dreams into a global superstar who continues to shape the sound of African music. From his early struggles to global recognition, here’s the complete life story of Wizkid from 1990 to 2025.
Early Life (1990 – 2000)
Wizkid was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in a large family with twelve sisters, and his upbringing was deeply influenced by religion. His mother was a Pentecostal Christian, while his father was a practicing Muslim. This balance gave him a diverse background that would later reflect in his music style.
As a child, Wizkid was fascinated by music. He started singing in his church choir and even formed a small music group called the Glorious Five. Although they released only one album, it gave Wizkid the confidence that he could pursue music as a career.
The Rise of a Star (2001 – 2009)
In his teenage years, Wizkid began sneaking into studios around Surulere, watching established musicians and producers. At 15, he met OJB Jezreel, a respected music producer, who became a mentor. OJB introduced Wizkid to artists like 2Baba (formerly 2face Idibia) and Sound Sultan, who inspired his early style.
Originally known by the stage name Lil Prinz, he later changed it to Wizkid, signaling his transformation into a serious artist. By 2009, his raw talent caught the attention of Banky W’s EME Records, a partnership that would change his life forever.
Breakthrough with “Holla at Your Boy” (2010 – 2012)
Wizkid’s official debut single, Holla at Your Boy, dropped in 2010 and became an instant hit. The single announced Wizkid as a new force in Nigerian music, earning him the Next Rated Award at The Headies in 2011. His debut album, Superstar, released in 2011, gave Afrobeats classics like Don’t Dull, Pakuromo, and Tease Me.
By this time, Wizkid was no longer just a Lagos sensation but one of Nigeria’s hottest exports. He had begun collaborations with top African artists, setting the stage for his international journey.
Global Recognition and Expansion (2013 – 2016)
After leaving EME Records to start his own label, Starboy Entertainment, Wizkid took control of his career. He collaborated with international stars like Drake, releasing One Dance in 2016 — a track that became the most streamed song in the world at the time and earned him global recognition.
This period marked Wizkid as the first Nigerian artist to truly break into mainstream international charts. His fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and hip-hop gave him a unique sound that the world couldn’t resist.
The Starboy Era (2017 – 2019)
Wizkid’s brand continued to grow with the release of hits like Soco, which became a global anthem. His Sounds From The Other Side album featured collaborations with Chris Brown, Ty Dolla Sign, and Major Lazer. By this time, Wizkid was headlining international concerts, performing at major festivals, and selling out venues like the O2 Arena in London.
He also became the first Nigerian artist to walk the runway at a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show, proving that his influence went beyond music into global pop culture.
Made in Lagos & Grammy Recognition (2020 – 2022)
In October 2020, Wizkid released his groundbreaking album Made in Lagos. The project featured hits like Essence featuring Tems, which became a cultural phenomenon. The song was later remixed with Justin Bieber, making it the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.
Made in Lagos received global critical acclaim, and Wizkid earned a Grammy Award for his collaboration with Beyoncé on Brown Skin Girl. He cemented his status as Africa’s biggest music export.
Growth and Legacy (2023 – 2025)
Between 2023 and 2025, Wizkid continued his reign, dropping back-to-back hits, collaborating with new school artists, and selling out world tours. His 2023 project showcased his maturity as an artist, blending Afrobeats with R&B, soul, and amapiano.
By 2025, Wizkid is no longer just an Afrobeats artist but a global cultural icon. His career has influenced the rise of younger artists like Rema, Asake, and Ayra Starr. Wizkid’s story is proof that talent, consistency, and vision can turn a dream into a worldwide phenomenon.
Wizkid’s Achievements and Net Worth 2025
- Over 3 Grammy nominations and 1 win
- Billboard Hot 100 entries with Essence and One Dance
- Multiple BET, MOBO, and MTV Awards
- First Nigerian to sell out the O2 Arena multiple times
- Estimated net worth in 2025: $40 million
Conclusion
From Surulere to the world, Wizkid’s life story is one of persistence, talent, and global success. Between 1990 and 2025, he has evolved into one of the greatest Afrobeats artists of all time. His journey continues to inspire millions of young Africans chasing their dreams.
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