Early Life and Education
Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide, was born on March 15, 1989, in Bariga, Lagos State, Nigeria.
He grew up in a modest family and developed an early interest in music while still in secondary school. Influenced by artists like Jay-Z, ID Cabasa, and 9ice, Olamide started rapping in Yoruba and English, blending both languages into a unique street style that would later define his career.
He attended Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, where he studied Mass Communication. Although he didn’t complete his studies due to financial constraints, his passion for music pushed him to pursue his dreams full-time.
Career
Olamide began his professional career in 2010 with his breakout single “Eni Duro.” The song became an instant street anthem, showcasing his raw rap talent and street credibility.
In 2011, he released his debut album Rapsodi under Coded Tunes, owned by producer ID Cabasa. The album featured Wizkid and introduced Olamide to the mainstream Nigerian music scene.
Shortly after, he left Coded Tunes and founded his own label, YBNL Nation, in 2012. Under this label, he released his second album YBNL, featuring hits like “First of All,” “Voice of the Street,” and “Stupid Love.”
From that point, Olamide became one of Nigeria’s most consistent hitmakers, releasing multiple successful albums:
- Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013) – with hits like “Durosoke” and “Eleda Mi O.”
- Street OT (2014) – “Story for the Gods” became a nationwide hit.
- Eyan Mayweather (2015) – a solo project showing his lyrical dominance.
- The Glory (2016) and Lagos Nawa (2017) – blending rap with Afropop.
His later albums, including Carpe Diem (2020), UY Scuti (2021), and Unruly (2023), marked his global crossover.
Through his YBNL/Empire partnership, Olamide expanded internationally, introducing artists like Fireboy DML and Asake to the world.
Personal Life
Olamide is married to his longtime partner Adebukunmi Aisha Suleiman, and together they have two sons: Batifeori Maximiliano (born 2015) and Tunrepin Myles (born 2019).
Despite his fame, Olamide is known for living a private and humble lifestyle. He stays away from controversies and focuses on family, music, and business.
He often gives back to his community in Bariga, supporting young talents and sponsoring local initiatives.
Filmography
Although Olamide’s main focus is music, he has appeared in and contributed to several film and TV productions:
- Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – Cameo Appearance
- MTV Shuga Naija (2013–2014) – Guest Appearance
- Afrobeats: The Backstory (Netflix Documentary, 2022) – Featured Artist
- Olamide Live in Concert (OLIC) – Documentary Series (2014–2019)
His cinematic music videos, like “Motigbana,” “Melo Melo,” and “Infinity”, have also been praised for their storytelling and visual creativity.
Discography
Studio Albums
- Rapsodi (2011)
- YBNL (2012)
- Baddest Guy Ever Liveth (2013)
- Street OT (2014)
- Eyan Mayweather (2015)
- The Glory (2016)
- Lagos Nawa (2017)
- 999 (EP) (2020)
- Carpe Diem (2020)
- UY Scuti (2021)
- Unruly (2023)
Collaborative Album
- 2 Kings (2015) – with Phyno
Compilation
- YBNL Mafia Family (2018)
Awards and Nominations
Olamide is one of the most decorated Nigerian artists, with numerous honors from The Headies, NEA, AFRIMMA, and more.
Selected Awards
- The Headies: Artiste of the Year (2014, 2016), Best Rap Album (YBNL, Street OT, Carpe Diem)
- NEA Awards: Indigenous Artist of the Year, Album of the Year (Baddest Guy Ever Liveth)
- AFRIMMA: Best Rap Act (2016, 2018)
- City People Awards: Rap Artist of the Year (2015, 2016)
- BET Awards Nominee (2016): Best International Act – Africa
His hit song “Wo!!” and albums like Carpe Diem have earned international acclaim, further cementing his legacy.
Net Worth (2025 Estimate)
As of 2025, Olamide’s net worth is estimated between $15 million and $20 million USD, placing him among the top 10 richest Nigerian musicians.
Major Income Sources
- Music sales & streaming revenue
- YBNL Nation record label earnings
- Live shows and tours
- Endorsement deals (Glo, Itel, Guinness, Cîroc)
- Real estate and business investments
Olamide’s partnership with Empire Distribution and the global success of Asake and Fireboy DML under his label have further boosted his earnings and influence.
Social Media Handles
Stay connected with Olamide on his verified platforms:
Conclusion
Olamide remains one of the most influential artists in African music history. From his humble beginnings in Bariga to building a global music empire, he has proven that talent, consistency, and authenticity can turn dreams into legacy.
Through his label, YBNL Nation, he continues to nurture new stars and expand Afrobeats’ reach across the world.
Olamide isn’t just an artist — he’s a movement, a mentor, and a symbol of African creativity.