Early Life and Background
Ahmed Ololade, better known by his stage name Asake, was born on January 13, 1995, in Lagos State, Nigeria. He is one of the most significant names in the new wave of Nigerian music, particularly known for his fusion of Afrobeats, Fuji, and Street Pop. Growing up in Lagos, Asake was exposed to the vibrant culture and sounds of Nigeria, which heavily influenced his musical style.
He developed an interest in music from a young age, participating in school performances and cultural activities. Asake attended Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he studied Theatre and Performing Arts. This educational background helped shape his musical career, as his deep understanding of performance art was evident in his music videos and stage performances.
Musical Career
Early Beginnings (2018-2020)
Asake’s musical career began to take shape around 2018 when he started releasing songs and establishing his unique sound. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that he gained significant recognition with the release of the single “Mr. Money”, which became an instant hit and earned him the moniker “Mr. Money”. The track’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics, combined with his fusion of Afrobeats and Fuji, captured the attention of Nigerian music lovers and catapulted him into the limelight. The success of “Mr. Money” led to a remix featuring Nigerian stars Zlatan and Peruzzi, which further elevated his popularity.
Breakthrough with YBNL Nation (2021-2022)
In February 2022, Asake signed with YBNL Nation, a prominent record label owned by Nigerian rapper Olamide. This partnership marked a turning point in his career, as he began to release more commercially successful music. His first major track under the label was “Omo Ope”, featuring Olamide, which became a hit and cemented Asake’s place in the mainstream Nigerian music scene. The following single, “Sungba”, further expanded his fanbase, and the remix with Burna Boy helped push his music to international audiences.
Mr. Money with the Vibe (2022)
In September 2022, Asake released his debut studio album, “Mr. Money with the Vibe”, which was a massive success. The album broke records for the biggest opening day for an African album on Apple Music and debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200 chart, making it the highest-charting Nigerian debut album at that time. The album contained hit tracks like “Terminator”, “Dull”, and “Joha”, and solidified Asake as one of the leading voices in contemporary Nigerian music.
Work of Art (2023)
Asake’s success continued with his sophomore album, “Work of Art”, which was released in June 2023. This album also debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200 chart and continued to showcase his ability to blend street sounds with mainstream appeal. His music continued to resonate with fans both locally and internationally, proving that Asake was here to stay.
Lungu Boy (2024)
In 2024, Asake released his third studio album, “Lungu Boy”, which topped charts and became his third consecutive number-one album in Nigeria. It also set a record as the longest-running number-one album in Nigeria’s music chart history, demonstrating his consistency and continued dominance in the industry.
Notable Performances and Achievements
Asake’s stage presence has been a key factor in his rise to prominence. In August 2023, he made history by selling out the O2 Arena in London, arriving in a helicopter for a grand entrance, which added a touch of extravagance to the performance. The following month, he made history again as the first African artist to headline and sell out a concert at the Barclays Center in New York City. His international appeal reached even further in February 2024 when he performed on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, gaining a significant following in the United States.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout his career, Asake has received several prestigious awards, including:
- All Africa Music Award (AFRIMA) for Best New Artist
- Headies Awards (including Best New Artist and Best Street Hop)
- MOBO Award for Best African Act
He has also been nominated for: - BET Award for Best International Act
- Grammy Awards
- NAACP Image Award
These accolades reflect his rapid rise in the global music scene and his impact on the Afrobeats genre.
Artistry and Musical Style
Asake’s musical style is an eclectic blend of Afrobeats, Fuji, and Street Pop, with strong influences from Yoruba music. He seamlessly fuses traditional sounds with contemporary beats, creating a genre-defying mix that resonates with audiences worldwide. His use of Yoruba, English, and Nigerian Pidgin in his lyrics adds an authentic local touch that further connects him with his fans.
His vocal delivery, which combines a playful tone with a rhythmic flow, has made his music stand out in a crowded industry. Asake’s ability to seamlessly mix indigenous Nigerian sounds with global influences is one of the reasons for his immense popularity.
Personal Life
Despite his rising fame, Asake has largely kept his personal life private. He is known for his humility and hard work, often expressing gratitude to his fans and mentors for his success. He is also known for his distinct fashion sense, often sporting stylish and trendy outfits that complement his music’s energetic vibe.
Asake is passionate about preserving and promoting Nigerian culture through his music, and his rise has been a testament to the global appeal of Afrobeats.
Online Presence
- Instagram: @asakemusic
- X (formerly Twitter): @asakemusik
- YouTube: Asake
Legacy and Influence
Asake’s rapid rise in the Nigerian music industry, and beyond, signals the continued growth of Afrobeats as a global genre. He has managed to carve out his own unique space in the music world, blending tradition with modern influences and taking Nigerian music to new heights. His success is a testament to the international appeal of African music, and he continues to inspire upcoming artists with his innovative sound and bold approach to music.
