INFORMATION
| Artist Birtday : | 03/12/1993(Age 32) |
| Born In : | Lagos |
| Occupation(s) : | Singer - Song-writer |
| Genres : | Afrobeats, Afro-amapiano |
Reekado Banks, born Ayoleyi Hanniel Solomon on December 6, 1993, in Lagos, Nigeria, is one of the most distinctive voices in the modern Afrobeats movement. Raised in a musically supportive family, Reekado grew up surrounded by both church music and urban Lagos sounds, a combination that would later shape his soulful yet danceable style. He is the last child of a music-loving family, and he often credits his older brother, who was a producer, for introducing him to music production and guiding him in his early career.
His breakthrough came in 2014 when he signed with Mavin Records, one of Nigeria’s most influential music labels, after an impressive audition that earned him a place in Don Jazzy’s camp. That move marked the start of a prolific era for the young artist, putting him on the map with hits like “Katapot,” “Sugar Baby,” and “Oluwa Ni.” His collaboration on the Mavin all-star anthem “Dorobucci” further propelled him into mainstream recognition, showcasing his vocal talent and easygoing charisma to a wider audience.
Musically, Reekado Banks is known for blending smooth melodies, relatable lyrics, and catchy hooks that cut across Afropop, R&B, and dancehall. His sound is soulful but never overly complicated — he has a way of making music that feels both intimate and celebratory, which is why fans easily connect with him. He often sings about love, gratitude, and the hustle of life, keeping his music grounded in experiences that are familiar to many listeners.
After leaving Mavin Records in 2018, Reekado took control of his artistic direction by launching his own label, Banks Music. This move allowed him to experiment more freely, exploring fresh sonic ideas while maintaining the groovy, melodic identity that fans love. Songs like “Rora” and “Ozumba Mbadiwe” demonstrate his evolution as an artist, with the latter becoming a global anthem for Nigerians abroad and fans of Afrobeats worldwide.
Beyond music, Reekado Banks is recognized for his calm personality and dedication to craft. He is not one to chase unnecessary controversy, preferring instead to let his music speak for him. His consistency has made him one of Afrobeats’ most respected voices, a reliable hitmaker who continues to deliver music that resonates with a diverse audience.
Today, Reekado remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated contemporary artists, steadily pushing Afrobeats into new spaces while keeping his sound refreshingly authentic. Whether he’s serenading listeners with a romantic ballad or getting them on their feet with an uptempo jam, his music carries a signature vibe that is instantly recognizable.
Awards and Achievements
Reekado Banks has been recognized with several awards for his contribution to African music. In 2015, he won the prestigious Headies Award for Next Rated Artist, an honor previously given to Nigerian superstars like Wizkid and Davido, cementing his status as one of the fastest-rising stars of his generation. He has also been nominated for and won multiple awards at AFRIMA, City People Awards, and Nigeria Entertainment Awards. His music continues to receive international airplay, helping to spread the Afrobeats wave to global audiences.
Beyond awards, Reekado Banks has earned respect for his consistency and low-drama persona in an industry often fueled by controversy. He focuses on his craft and remains committed to delivering high-quality music that keeps fans dancing while also provoking reflection.
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