Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music executive who has grown to become one of Africa’s most influential and successful artists. Known for his unique voice, signature style, and global collaborations, Wizkid has carved out a space for Afrobeats on the world stage. Over the years, he has earned numerous accolades and built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s richest and most respected entertainers.
Early Life and Education
Wizkid was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, into a large, religiously diverse family. His father practices Islam, while his mother is a devout Christian. He is the youngest child and only son among 13 siblings.
From a young age, Wizkid showed interest in music and began performing in his church choir. At age 11, he released a gospel album under the stage name Lil Prinz, although the project didn’t achieve commercial success. Encouraged by his passion but faced with family disapproval, he chose to balance his education with his love for music.
He initially enrolled at Lagos State University (LASU) but left due to academic struggles. He later attended Lead City University in Ibadan but dropped out after two sessions to pursue music full-time.
Music Career
In 2009, Wizkid signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), owned by Nigerian artist Banky W. His first major appearance was co-writing “Omoge You Too Much” for Banky W’s album. The following year, he dropped his breakthrough single “Holla At Your Boy”, which became a youth anthem and earned him the Next Rated Award at The Headies 2011.
His debut album, Superstar, was released in 2011, showcasing a blend of Afrobeats, reggae, and R&B. The project featured hits like “Don’t Dull”, “Tease Me”, and “Pakurumo”, which further solidified his status in Nigeria’s music scene.
In 2012, Wizkid collaborated with labelmates on the compilation album Empire Mates State of Mind. Shortly after, he began working on his second studio album.
International Breakthrough and Collaborations
Wizkid’s second album, Ayo, came out in 2014, with guest appearances from Femi Kuti, Akon, Tyga, Phyno, and more. The album featured hits like “Jaiye Jaiye” and “Ojuelegba”, with the latter drawing global attention, especially after being remixed by Drake and Skepta.
In 2016, he gained global prominence by featuring on Drake’s “One Dance”, which topped charts in over 15 countries and earned a place in the Guinness World Records. This marked a turning point in his career.
His third album, Sounds from the Other Side (2017), featured international acts such as Chris Brown, Drake, and Ty Dolla $ign. In 2019, he collaborated with Beyoncé on the Grammy-winning song “Brown Skin Girl” from The Lion King: The Gift album.
Recent Projects and Global Recognition
Wizkid’s fourth studio album, Made in Lagos (2020), was a massive success both locally and internationally. The standout single “Essence” featuring Tems became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. A remix featuring Justin Bieber helped the song reach the top 10, earning Grammy nominations and boosting Wizkid’s streaming numbers.
He followed up with More Love, Less Ego in 2022, and in November 2024, he dropped his sixth album, Morayo, which features Asake, Brent Faiyaz, Jazmine Sullivan, Tiakola, and Anaïs Cardot. The lead single, “Piece of My Heart,” was released in October 2024.
Wizkid’s collaboration with Asake on “MMS” earned a nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards, bringing his total Grammy nominations to six.
Discography Overview
Albums
- Superstar (2011)
- Ayo (2014)
- Sounds from the Other Side (2017)
- Made in Lagos (2020)
- More Love, Less Ego (2022)
- Morayo (2024)
EPs
- Soundman Vol. 1 (2019)
- S2 (2023)
Hit Singles
- “Holla at Your Boy”
- “Ojuelegba”
- “Come Closer” ft. Drake
- “Essence” ft. Tems
- “Ginger” ft. Burna Boy
- “Mood,” “Bad To Me,” “Piece of My Heart,” and more
Awards and Achievements
Wizkid is one of the most awarded African artists. His achievements include:
- Grammy Award – Best Music Video (with Beyoncé for Brown Skin Girl)
- BET Awards – 4 wins
- MOBO Awards – 6 wins
- Billboard Music Awards, MTV VMAs, iHeartRadio Awards, and more
- Guinness World Records – for “One Dance”
- Apple Music Artist of the Year (Africa) – 2021
- Most awarded artist in The Headies history
Personal Life and Children
Wizkid is a father of three boys:
- Boluwatife Balogun (with Oluwanisola Ogudugu)
- Ayodeji Balogun Jr. (with Binta Diallo)
- Zion Balogun (with Jada Pollock)
Though not married, he is reportedly in a relationship with Jada Pollock, who is also his manager. He spends quality time with his kids and keeps his personal life relatively private, despite media speculation linking him to artists like Tems, Tiwa Savage, and Seyi Shay.
Businesses and Endorsements
Wizkid is the founder of Starboy Entertainment, a record label that has signed talents like Terri, Maleek Berry, and Legendury Beatz.
He also has endorsement deals with:
- Pepsi
- MTN Nigeria
- Guinness Nigeria
- UBA (United Bank for Africa)
Net Worth
As of 2025, Wizkid’s estimated net worth is $50 million, making him the richest music artist in Nigeria. His wealth comes from music sales, streaming, brand endorsements, and global tours.
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