In this article, we spotlight ten artists whom Olamide has supported and helped elevate in the music industry with a co-sign.
His influence in Nigeria and Africa’s music scene is undeniable. His every move and utterance resonates with a broad audience, and he has graciously used his platform to uplift other artists toward success. In this article, we shine a spotlight on ten artists who have received Olamide’s valuable co-sign and benefited from his support, as he played a significant role in their rise to stardom.
1. YCee
While Ycee had previously released a hit titled “Condo,” his significant breakthrough and widespread recognition occurred when he collaborated with the YBNL boss to remix “Jagaban.” This partnership solidified his stardom and significantly boosted his acceptance and popularity, particularly among the urban audience.
2. Lil Kesh
Lil Kesh initially entered the music scene with a style reminiscent of the YBNL head honcho, which naturally led to their paths crossing. His significant breakthrough occurred in 2014 when he collaborated with Olamide and Davido on “Shoki,” a track that remains one of his standout records. Following this success, he inked a short-term deal with YBNL, during which he delivered a series of hit songs, establishing a strong foundation for his subsequent venture, YAGI (Young And Getting It) label, which he founded upon the expiration of his YBNL contract.
3. Naira Marley
Although Naira Marley’s prominence in the music industry is often associated with the Lil Kesh and Olamide collaboration on “Issa Goal,” his initial breakthrough occurred in 2016 with “Ko Si Werey,” a track featuring none other than the YBNL boss. “Issa Goal” was undeniably a more significant record, serving as the official single for the Super Eagles during the 2018 World Cup and subsequently earning Naira Marley a Coca-Cola sponsorship deal.
4. Bad Boy Timz
Bad Boy Timz had gained relative mainstream recognition thanks to his 2020-released hit “MJ”. However, his most remarkable achievement that year was his collaboration with the YBNL boss on the track “Loading,” featured on Olamide’s 2020 album, “Carpe Diem.” This specific song has accumulated over 30 million streams, firmly solidifying its position as Bad Boy Timz’s standout record.
5. Portable
The influence Olamide has had on Portable’s career is written in bold caps. The track “Zazoo Zeh” played a pivotal role in catapulting Portable to fame, with Olamide’s significant contribution being a key factor in its success. Notably, Portable has shared that Olamide generously financed the music video for the song, highlighting Olamide’s selfless support and legendary status.
6. Phyno
Olamide and Phyno share a symbiotic musical relationship, reflecting their genuine friendship and evident musical chemistry. However, his lasting impact on Phyno’s career is undeniable and continues to shine through. Hits such as “Ghost Mode,” “Fada Fada,” and “Dope Money” serve as compelling examples of this significant influence.
7. Asake
Olamide’s impact on Asake’s career is nothing short of immense. Asake himself recognized the significance when he received the legend’s verse for his breakthrough track “Omo Ope.” A viral video captured the moment when Asake listened to it for the first time, shedding tears of joy. Following this pivotal moment, the impact on Asake’s career was substantial, ultimately leading to his signing with YBNL and a remarkable rise to prominence.
8. Zlatan Ibile
Olamide’s support for Zlatan Ibile is not as widely known. Zlatan himself brought this to light in a now-viral video, sharing that the YBNL boss personally reached out to him, orchestrating the recording of his first song and even accompanying him to another state to make it happen. Typical of Olamide, he provided this assistance quietly, without ever mentioning it in public.
9. Bella Shmurda
In 2019, Bella Shmurda achieved his breakthrough moment when he collaborated with Olamide on the “Vision 2020” remix. Prior to this, he was introduced to Olamide through Poco Lee. According to Bella Shmurda, Olamide played a pivotal role in the song’s production, covering all financial aspects, including the music video, and handling the promotion, essentially propelling him to success.
10. T.I Blaze
It’s almost like a formula that always works: feature the YBNL boss on your song, and you’re made. That’s exactly what TI Blaze did with his single “Sometimes” remix. Olamide gave him the much-needed push into the limelight.
These are just a glimpse of the artists who have experienced the transformative impact of the “Olamide Effect.” Among the many talents he has supported are Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, Chinko Ekun, Picasso Rhap, Yomi Blaze, Lyta, Temmie Ovwasa, and numerous others. Olamide’s enduring legacy extends not only through his own musical contributions but also through the remarkable careers of these artists he has helped propel to superstardom.
