INFORMATION
Artist Birtday : | 13/01/1995(Age 30) |
Born In : | Lagos, Nigeria |
Occupation(s) : | Musician |
Genres : | Afrobeats Fuji music Fuji Fusion Street Pop/ Street Hop Afro fusion Afropop Nigerian pop |
Web Site : | www.asakeincfoundation.org |
Ahmed Ololade, professionally known as Asake, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who has rapidly ascended the ranks of the global music scene with his unique fusion of Afrobeats, Fuji, and Amapiano. Born on January 13, 1995, in Lagos State, Nigeria, Asake’s journey from the bustling streets of Lagos to international stages is a testament to his talent, resilience, and innovative artistry.
Early Life and Education
Asake was born into a Yoruba Muslim family in Lagos, Nigeria. His father was an entrepreneur, and his mother, whose name ‘Asake’ he adopted as his stage name, was a teacher. Growing up in the culturally rich environment of Lagos, Asake was exposed to a variety of musical influences that would later shape his distinctive sound.
He pursued higher education at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he studied Theatre and Dramatic Arts. His academic background in performance arts contributed to his dynamic stage presence and storytelling abilities in his music.
Musical Beginnings and Breakthrough
Asake’s musical journey began with a passion for dance, particularly cultural dance, which he often performed during his university days. He transitioned into music, releasing freestyles and singles that gradually gained attention. His 2020 single “Lady” garnered significant traction on social media, marking his initial breakthrough.
In February 2022, Asake’s career took a significant turn when he was signed to YBNL Nation, a record label founded by Nigerian rapper Olamide. This partnership, along with a distribution deal with Empire, propelled Asake into the limelight. His debut EP, “Ololade Asake,” featured hit tracks like “Omo Ope” and “Sungba,” which resonated with audiences and established his presence in the Nigerian music industry.
Rise to Stardom
Asake’s debut studio album, “Mr. Money With the Vibe,” released in September 2022, broke records by becoming the biggest opening day for an African album on Apple Music at the time. The album debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking the highest-charting Nigerian debut album in history at that point.
His sophomore album, “Work of Art,” released in 2023, continued his upward trajectory. The album opened with “Olorun,” a track that pays homage to the Yoruba Supreme Being while celebrating personal achievements. Rooted in Afrofusion, the album blends South African Amapiano with Nigerian and traditional Yoruba sounds, showcasing Asake’s innovative approach to music.
In 2024, Asake released his third studio album, “Lungu Boy,” which further solidified his status as a global music sensation. The album featured collaborations with international artists such as Wizkid, Travis Scott, Stormzy, Central Cee, and Ludmilla. “Lungu Boy” explored themes of struggle and success, blending Afropiano, hip-hop, and neo-Fuji elements to create a rich musical content.
Asake’s music is characterized by a unique blend of Afrobeats, Fuji, Amapiano, and street-pop, creating a sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in Nigerian musical traditions. He often sings in Yoruba, incorporating English, urban slang, and Nigerian Pidgin to reach a diverse audience. His dynamic vocal delivery and energetic performances have earned him a reputation as a captivating live performer.
Influenced by artists like Fela Kuti and Barrister, Asake’s music often reflects themes of perseverance, cultural pride, and the complexities of urban life. His ability to seamlessly merge traditional and contemporary sounds has made him a standout figure in the global music landscape.