Early Life and Education
Wizkid was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos State, into a polygamous family of 12 siblings. His mother was a Pentecostal Christian, while his father was Muslim, exposing him to diverse cultures from an early age.
He attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School and later furthered his education at Lagos State University (LASU), though he eventually left to pursue music full-time. Wizkid began his musical journey at the age of 11, forming a group called Glorious Five with his church friends before going solo.
Career
Wizkid’s professional breakthrough came in 2009 when he signed to Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), owned by Banky W. His debut single, “Holla at Your Boy,” released in 2010, made him a household name across Nigeria.
His first album, Superstar (2011), produced hits like “Tease Me,” “Pakurumo,” and “Don’t Dull.” It established Wizkid as a rising force in the African music scene.
In 2013, he founded his own label, Starboy Entertainment, and released Ayo (2014), which featured the chart-topping hit “Ojuelegba.” The song caught international attention, earning co-signs from Drake and Skepta.
Wizkid’s international breakthrough came in 2016 when he collaborated with Drake on “One Dance,” which topped charts in over 15 countries and became one of Spotify’s most-streamed songs of all time.
Subsequent albums like Sounds From The Other Side (2017), Made in Lagos (2020), and More Love, Less Ego (2022) solidified his position as a global Afrobeats ambassador.
“Essence” featuring Tems became a worldwide anthem, earning platinum status and a Grammy nomination — marking a major milestone for African music.
Wizkid has since headlined major global concerts, including O2 Arena (London) and Accor Arena (Paris), and continues to represent African excellence worldwide.
Personal Life
Wizkid has four children with three different women. His first son, Boluwatife, was born in 2011 to Shola Ogudu. He later had Ayodeji Jr. with Binta Diallo and two sons with his current partner, Jada Pollock, who also manages him professionally.
Despite early controversies, Wizkid maintains a close bond with his children and often credits fatherhood for his maturity and focus.
He resides between Lagos, London, and Los Angeles, balancing family life with his thriving music career.
Filmography
While primarily a musician, Wizkid has appeared in several visual and documentary projects:
- The Return of Jenifa (2011) – Cameo Appearance
- Black is King (2020) – Beyoncé’s visual album (featured in Brown Skin Girl)
- Made in Lagos (Documentary) (2021) – Performance and storytelling feature
- Afrobeats: The Backstory (2022, Netflix) – Featured artist and interviewee
Discography
Studio Albums
- Superstar (2011)
- Ayo (2014)
- Sounds From the Other Side (2017)
- Made in Lagos (2020)
- More Love, Less Ego (2022)
Extended Plays (EPs)
- Soundman Vol. 1 (2019)
Popular Singles
- Holla at Your Boy
- Ojuelegba
- Fever
- Come Closer (ft. Drake)
- Joro
- Essence (ft. Tems)
- Bad to Me
Awards and Nominations
Wizkid is one of the most awarded African artists of all time. His recognitions include:
- Grammy Awards: Best Music Video (Brown Skin Girl – with Beyoncé)
- BET Awards: Best International Act (2012, 2017)
- MOBO Awards: Best African Act (2011, 2016, 2021)
- Headies Awards: Artist of the Year (multiple years)
- MTV EMA & AFRIMA: Numerous wins across Afrobeats and pop categories
- Billboard Music Awards: Nominations for One Dance and Essence
Wizkid’s global recognition has helped elevate the Afrobeats genre to the international stage.
Net Worth (2025)
Wizkid’s estimated net worth is between $30 million and $40 million USD, making him one of Africa’s wealthiest musicians.
Major Income Sources:
- Music sales & streaming
- International tours & endorsements
- Starboy Entertainment label
- Brand deals with Pepsi, Puma, Tecno, and UBA
- Luxury real estate and investments
He owns multiple houses in Lagos, London, and Los Angeles, and drives luxury cars including a Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne, and Mercedes-Maybach.
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